Whether you’re stalking a trophy bull, calling-in northern green-heads, or searching for a wily buck, one thing holds true for all – pressure matters. Sportsmen who hunt and fish public lands inherently understand this and for those crazy few of us interested in success, avoiding crowds is often strategy #1 for ensuring successIf you are looking for the next ‘secret spot’ on public lands, the following series of posts on how to avoid the crowds on public lands may be of interest to you. Each ...

By Ben LongBackcountry Hunters & Anglers exists so Americans can pass on our world-class outdoor heritage, including the freedom and challenge that comes with the backcountry, to our kids and grandkids.If we want to succeed, hunting and fishing needs to remain affordable. We cannot build an outdoor culture that requires a big 4X4, a trailer full of ATVs and a motorhome as an entry fee.Happily, the backcountry is a bargain, open to anyone willing to work for access. The fact is, most ...

By Karl FindlingThe idea of hunting the backcountry is increasingly appealing to many folks. Today, it seems everyone has a GPS unit and can travel for days over diverse country. But, what occurs when the GPS is inoperable or the batteries die? Do you know how to navigate without your GPS in country you’ve never been in or seen in daylight? How about when fog or snow sets in? How competent are you with a map and compass? * The 12 Essentials Navigation (map and compass) Sun protection ...

The following is a compilation of reports and stories from hunters, anglers and public land users about how illegal OHV use has impacted habitat and hunting and fishing opportunities.  If you have a story to share, please send it by email.   Jerry Woodard, Utah:Jerry explains a time when:Some hunters on ATVs insisted they would haul his elk out for him if they could get their machines to the site. Even though Jerry declined their offer, the persistent ATV riders spent much of the day trying ...

Wildlife needs wild habitat. Americans need energy. And sportsmen overwhelming understand that we need both.As gas prices creep-up, people are understandably concerned.  While this concern warrants further discussion among candidates, well-balanced energy development on our public lands must be central to any discussion – sportsmen expect that.   The public access and quality fish and wildlife habitat that public lands provide are of too great for it to go any other way. And sportsmen ...