The Mid-Atlantic Chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers is expressing its support for Virginia’s Great Outdoors Act (HB 1297). Introduced by Delegate Paul Krizek of Virginia’s 16th District, this legislation aims to provide $200 million in funding for trails, state parks, public lands, and grant programs focused on conserving natural resources and expanding outdoor access across the state. In line with this effort, our Chapter has joined the Our Virginia Outdoors Coalition, a group of ...

The Armed Forces Initiative is more than just a community; just like the flag we salute, it's a tapestry woven with the threads of diverse backgrounds and experiences. Within our ranks, you will find veterans, active-duty personnel, reservists, National Guard members, and retirees - individuals who have dedicated anywhere from four to 40 years of their lives in service to their nation. It sets us apart, and it's what makes our community truly unique. We share a common bond through our ...

    Back in the spring I was fortunate enough to participate in a “fly-in” event in support of the LWCF Coalition at our Nation’s capital.  You can read the blog post I published about that experience here; LWCF Coalition Fly-In with Capital Region Chapter and AFI.  During that event I met with Sen. Tim Kaine’s office to thank the Senator and his staff for his continued support of LWCF and ask that they help protect against future recissions.  During that meeting the conversation came up ...

Fly fishing for Yellowstone cutthroat trout on the Yellowstone River or in the Lamar Valley of Yellowstone National Park is a bucket list adventure for many.  This July, eight veterans who participated in Backcountry Hunters and Anglers’ Armed Forces Initiative Fly Fishing Camp did exactly that.  The participants included current leaders and potential future leaders from Oklahoma, North Dakota, Arizona, Wyoming, California and Colorado.  Everyone left inspired and filled with a renewed ...

I recently had the pleasure in attending the 2023 North Carolina Armed Forces Initiative Turkey Camp as a mentor.  There was a bit of trepidation on my part about being a mentor as I do not have a lot of experience hunting turkeys.  It was not something my family did growing up in Pennsylvania.  We were the standard white-tailed deer and small game hunters.  All told I have a total of four seasons worth of turkey hunting experience.    Adding to my trepidation is the fact that I have yet to ...