Collector's Elite Auctions' February collection features exceptional firearms including a Pasotti-engraved Renato Gamba shotgun, Staccato/Taran Tactical Innovations JW3 Combat Master benefiting Charlie Foxtrot Ops, Heckler & Koch SP5K-PDW, and Nemesis Arms Valkyrie modular rifle. Bidding closes February 15th with many lots starting at one cent.

Houston Safari Club Foundation (HSCF) announced Cotton Mesa Trophy Whitetail, owned by Robert and Stephen Gegenheimer, as the 2026 HSCF Outfitter of the Year Award recipient. The award recognizes outstanding professionalism, conservation commitment, and ethical hunting standards demonstrated by the operation.

Otis Technology announced its 2025 Customer Awards at SHOT Show, naming Weby Corp as Customer of the Year and Sports South as Distributor of the Year. The awards recognized outstanding partnerships that drove growth for Otis Technology and Shooter's Choice throughout the year.

Summit Treestands earned the Gold winner award in the 2026 Bowhunting World Readers' Choice Award for Climbing Treestands. Brian Malone at Summit Treestands highlighted the company's commitment to designing treestands that exceed expectations for safety, comfort, and silence.

XS Sights' Optic Plate and OR-Height Sight Bundles for Glock MOS pistols won ON TARGET Magazine's Editors' Choice Award. The precision CNC-machined steel plates offer 30% more thread engagement and are compatible with ACRO and RMR footprints, providing a drop-in solution for red dot mounting with minimalist iron sight backups.

The DNR's third annual Camp Warbler runs June 1-3 at the Ralph A. MacMullan Conference Center near Roscommon. This all-inclusive event features guided birding activities, presentations, lodging, meals, and transportation from Detroit, including visits to Shiawassee Wildlife Refuge and a Kirtland's warbler breeding site.

Scopos launched its 2026 National Air Rifle New Shooter League and National Air Pistol League with Week 1 competition. Ooltewah AJROTC edged Stony Point NJROTC by 3.3 points in air rifle, while Lafayette Gun Club posted a league-best 2,118 in air pistol. Daniel Boone MCJROTC and VMI Pistol Club also opened with dominant victories.

MacKenzie Sookhoo led Game 6 of the 2025-2026 National Intercollegiate Rifle League with a 614.5 score, as the University of Rhode Island posted 2,328.8 to lead standings at 2,313.5 average. Georgia Military College finished second at 1,219.4 in the match.

Team Remington dominated the RC Cup Main Event, with Brandon Powell, Turner Parcell, and Michael Luongo finishing first, second, and third respectively among nearly 350 entrants. The 950-target event at South Florida Shooting Club in Palm City, Florida attracted over 500 total shooters and concluded February 1, 2026.

Federal Ammunition sponsored shooter Kayle Browning won gold in Women's Trap at the Abu Dhabi Shotgun Grand Prix, defeating Italy's Jessica Rossi and Poland's Sandra Bernal with a perfect 30/30 final score. The 2020 Olympic silver medalist competed among 165 of the world's best trap and skeet shooters from 26 countries.

Winchester Ammunition and White Flyer sport shooters will compete at the 2026 Jack Link's Cup February 10-15 at Quail Creek Sporting Ranch in Florida. Team member Mike Wilgus won the 2025 NSCA National Sporting Clays Championship. Winchester introduces the new AA Super Spreader 12-gauge load with expanded pattern capabilities.

The Idaho Fish and Game Commission approved a 280-acre acquisition expanding Tex Creek Wildlife Management Area near Idaho Falls. Funded by Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, onX, and Idaho Department of Fish and Game license dollars, the property provides critical winter habitat for mule deer and year-round habitat for Columbian sharp-tailed grouse.

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks is investigating the illegal introduction of northern pike into Pine Grove Pond in Kalispell, a popular family fishing site. A pike was caught on January 29, and FWP is offering up to $1,000 in rewards, with Flathead Valley Trout Unlimited pledging $2,000 and Flathead Wildlife, Inc. pledging $500 for information about the illegal introduction.

Twin brothers Trace and Levi Loe caught two trophy bass at DeGray Lake for the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission's Legacy Lunker Program. Trace's fish weighed 11.16 pounds and Levi's weighed 12.63 pounds. While only Trace's fish was donated for spawning, both brothers received recognition and prizes including reproduction mounts and banquet invitations.

Whitetails Unlimited granted $1,490,728 to mission-related projects in Q4 2025 across four pillar programs: Outdoor Education, Hunting Preservation, Habitat Enhancement, and Shooting Sports Advancement. The organization supports hunter recruitment, retention, and reactivation initiatives for youth, women, veterans, and individuals with disabilities.

The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission announces the Light Goose Conservation Order beginning Feb. 10, with varying dates by zone through April. White and blue-phase snow geese and Ross' geese may be taken statewide with no bag limits, using unplugged shotguns and electronic calls.

Nonresident hunters can apply for remaining general season deer and elk tags from February 5-15 through Idaho's second drawing. Applicants must possess a 2026 Idaho hunting license and can submit up to two applications with five hunt choices each. Drawing results will be announced in early March, with a March 20 deadline to purchase tags.

Idaho hunters can apply for 2026 spring turkey controlled hunts from February 1 to March 1 through GoOutdoorsIdaho.com, license vendors, or by phone. The Idaho Fish and Game Commission approved updated seasons and rules, with successful applicants notified by March 20.

Silent Steel USA announced Kim Jensen's appointment as Vice President of Sales & Marketing. Jensen brings over 30 years of outdoor industry experience, including 20+ years at Robinson Outdoor Products and recent leadership at X-Vision Optics, to drive brand awareness and channel partnerships for the premium suppressor manufacturer.

A leading ammunition manufacturer is hiring a remote Sales Manager with a nationwide territory, offering uncapped commissions and experience-based salary. HeadHunters NW is conducting this retained search for high-energy B2B sales professionals with 5-7+ years of proven results.

European American Armory Corp. (EAA Corp.) is hiring an Inside Sales Representative in Cocoa, Florida to support the company's growth in 2026. The role involves customer support, account management, and sales support for the firearms importer.

Hawaii's SB433, a restrictive knife ban bill, was deferred indefinitely by the Senate Committee on Safety and Military Affairs. Knife Rights Director Todd Rather testified against the bill, which would ban most knife carry in public places. Over 400 people, including law enforcement and civil rights organizations, opposed the measure.

The Houston Safari Club Foundation's 2026 Worldwide Hunting Expo & Convention concluded January 23–25 at The Woodlands Waterway Marriott Hotel & Convention Center with record attendance and industry participation. The three-day event featured hundreds of exhibitors, auctions, and fundraising activities supporting HSCF's conservation, education, and youth outdoor programs. The 2027 convention is scheduled for January 15–17, 2027.

Michigan's Hunters Feeding Michigan program partnered with Grand Rapids Hide Co. to donate 60 pairs of insulated deerskin gloves to the Shelter of Flint. The initiative, facilitated by program specialist Joe Presgrove, involved deer processors donating hides instead of selling them, demonstrating hunters' commitment to supporting communities in need.

The Mule Deer Foundation released a statement opposing legislation to exterminate mule deer on Catalina Island in California, arguing for science-based management at sustainable levels instead. MDF President/CEO Greg Sheehan expressed concern that complete removal could increase wildfire risk and stands ready to develop alternative management frameworks.

SLG2, Inc. released a video featuring Karen Butler mentoring Christa Forrester through her first turkey hunt, demonstrating that effective mentorship requires passion and willingness to share knowledge safely, not expert status. The video aims to encourage outdoor enthusiasts to become mentors and introduce others to hunting.

Smith & Wesson Brands, Inc. announced a partnership with Lipsey's to release the exclusive Performance Center Model 36 Field Ethos revolver. This limited-release J-Frame features a .38 Special +P chambering, Tyler Gunworks premium walnut boot grips, and a bobbed hammer for concealment, with an action job performed at the factory.

Shell Shock Technologies, headquartered in Eubank, Kentucky, launched Shell Tech Gear, a dedicated website featuring Shell Tech-branded apparel and accessories for the 2A, shooting sports, and hunting communities. The collection includes t-shirts, hoodies, flannels, hats, and accessories like the Shell Tech Dog Bowl and Rambler Mug, designed for durability and outdoor performance.

Blaser Group unveiled the R8 Professional 2.0, an enhanced straight-pull rifle featuring an ergonomic vertical pistol grip, DLC A+ barrel coating, and height-adjustable comb. The rifle is available in a kit with TSA-approved hardcase and starts at $5,500 MSRP through Blaser Premium Dealers.

Orchid, a leading FFL technology provider, will exhibit at the 2026 NBS Spring Semi-Annual Market in Oklahoma City, offering retailers up to $5,000 in software credits. The promotion includes one year of Orchid POS, eCommerce, eBound/e4473, and native 4473 electronic storage, plus waived implementation and training fees.

Gun Talk with Tom Gresham, the nation's longest-running firearms radio show, announced its newest affiliate KFIV AM 1360 in Modesto, California, airing Saturdays from 7-10 PM PT. The expansion marks Gun Talk's continued growth to over 310 stations nationwide as it celebrates its 30th year on the air.

Iron Valley Supply is offering limited-time sales on shotguns, accessories, ammunition, and cold-weather gear for the upcoming 2026 turkey season. The Birmingham, Alabama-based distributor of shooting sports and outdoor products invites customers to view their full product lineup and contact an account representative.

Guns.com, a leading online firearms retailer, is meeting record suppressor demand following the elimination of the federal NFA tax. The company offers the industry's largest online selection from over 60 manufacturers including Dead Air, GEMTECH, BANISH, and Rugged, while supporting 2,000 local gun shops nationwide.

TriStar Arms will exhibit at the Nation's Best Sports Spring Market February 10–13 in Oklahoma City at Booth #501. The event connects independent sporting goods retailers and manufacturers, allowing TriStar to showcase firearms and strengthen relationships across the outdoor and shooting sports industry.

Taylor's & Company will exhibit at the 2026 Great American Outdoor Show from February 7-15 in Harrisburg, PA, unveiling new USA-made rifles and historically-accurate firearms at booth #265. The nine-day event features over 1,000 exhibitors across 650,000 square feet of exhibit space celebrating hunting, fishing, and outdoor traditions.

Patriot Ordnance Factory Inc. (POF-USA) will exhibit at the Worldwide Show Spring 2026 in Reno, Nevada, February 3-5, 2026, at booth No. 658. The manufacturer will showcase its latest AR-type rifles and product offerings while connecting with retail partners and discussing upcoming initiatives.

Meprolight has partnered with the Precision Rifle Series (PRS) as an Official 2026 Partner, providing competition-ready optics including the MVO family of variable scopes to support precision rifle competitors across all skill levels.

RE Factor Tactical  has joined the Second Amendment Foundation (SAF) as a Silver-level corporate partner. The company held a night vision giveaway with proceeds benefitting SAF's work, demonstrating its commitment to Second Amendment advocacy and supporting organizations that defend constitutional rights.

Ranger Point Precision donated a prize package to the Second Amendment Foundation's monthly sweepstakes, featuring a Taylor Firearm's Ridge Runner Takedown 45-70, Reiff Knife, Hornady ammunition, and Eberlestock pack. RPP also renewed their Gold-level corporate partnership with SAF.

The Michigan History Center is recruiting teams of four to serve as lighthouse keepers at Tawas Point Lighthouse in Tawas Point State Park from May through October 2026. Keepers provide tours, maintain facilities, and enjoy modern accommodations with applications due February 28.

The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission will host a public meeting on February 17 at Mayflower High School to update the public on Lake Conway's five-year renovation project. Nick Feltz, Fisheries supervisor, will discuss infrastructure improvements, habitat enhancements including gravel beds and artificial cover, and plans for the upcoming year.

The Wyoming Game and Fish Department and National Museum of Wildlife Art in Jackson will host a live YouTube tutorial on Feb. 5 for the 2027 Conservation Stamp Art Contest, featuring instruction on drawing an arctic grayling. Wyoming students can win up to $150 with submission deadlines of April 10, 2026 for student categories.

Jeff Davis will become Deputy Director of the Wyoming Game and Fish Department on February 2. Davis brings over two decades of experience from the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife and most recently served as Director of Colorado Parks and Wildlife, focusing on habitat conservation and wildlife management.

Shooting USA features the CMP Police and Fire Games 2025 in Birmingham, AL, showcasing shooting sports competitions hosted by CMP Talladega Marksmanship Park for law enforcement and first responders. The episode also includes a Colt ProTip segment with Mark Redl on Red Dot Offset techniques.

Sportsman Channel presents the "Super Pigskin Bowl" on Saturday, Feb. 7, featuring hog-hunting programming from Predator Pursuit with Jeff Thomason, Night Crew with Chris Robinson, Pigman with Brian Quaca, and MeatEater with Steven Rinella hunting wild boars in New Zealand.

Idaho Fish and Game conservation officers in the Magic Valley Region reported a fatal coyote attack on a dog in Sun Valley's Elkhorn area and multiple aggressive encounters with coyotes. The agency recommends residents keep pets under close control, remove attractants, and take precautions during coyote breeding and pupping seasons.

TFT-funded research led by Dr. Nicholas Bakner tracked 15 Rio Grande hens in Texas to study nesting behavior and land management impacts. Key findings include spring dispersal patterns, re-nesting capabilities, predator management effects on nesting location selection, and the importance of hens foraging away from nest sites for greater success.

Idaho Fish and Game's Panhandle Region will deploy approximately 30 GPS collars on elk calves in Game Management Unit 3 during 2026. The data collected helps biologists understand elk survival, movement patterns, and population trends to support science-based management and hunting season decisions.

If you’re planning a Florida fishing trip this spring or summer—whether for bass and crappies in freshwater or snook, reds and trout on salt, there’s a licensing change you need to know about before you arrive.

In late 2025, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission quietly eliminated online and phone sales of short-term non-resident fishing licenses. The 3-day and 7-day licenses once favored by visiting anglers can no longer be purchased through GoOutdoorsFlorida.com or the Fish|Hunt FL app. Instead, out-of-state anglers must buy those licenses in person at a county tax collector’s office or an authorized license agent before fishing.

Annual non-resident licenses remain available online. But for anglers in Florida for only a few days, the change adds a layer of friction that didn’t exist before—and it’s already being felt on the water.

For years, short-term licenses were one of the easiest parts of planning a Florida fishing trip. You could buy one online in minutes, download it to your phone, and be legally fishing the same day you landed. That convenience mattered to families on vacation, weekend travelers, and anyone squeezing fishing into a tight schedule.

Now, unless visitors know the rule change ahead of time, their first fishing day can begin with a search for a license agent—assuming one is open, nearby, and actually sells fishing licenses. That’s time lost during what is often the best bite of the day.

It’s important to note one major exception: this change does not affect most saltwater charter fishing. Florida’s for-hire saltwater vessels operate under a “blanket” license that covers anglers on board, resident or non-resident. Anyone booking a guided offshore or inshore saltwater trip is typically unaffected. The impact falls primarily on do-it-yourself anglers and freshwater guides, where individual licenses are still required.

FWC declined to comment when asked directly about the reasoning behind the change. But the structure of the rule—and how it was implemented—offers some clues.

One likely factor is administrative efficiency. Short-term non-resident licenses generate relatively little revenue per transaction but reportedly carry the same backend costs as longer-term licenses: credit card fees, fraud screening, customer support, and dispute resolution. From an agency standpoint, thousands of low-dollar, short-duration online transactions are costly to manage.

By shifting those sales to tax collectors and retail agents, FWC offloads much of that burden. In-person purchases reduce chargebacks, incorrect license selections, and identity issues, while moving customer service responsibilities to local offices that already handle them.

There’s also a revenue-stability angle that’s hard to ignore. Annual non-resident licenses—still available online—bring in significantly more money per sale and are easier for the agency to forecast and budget. Requiring in-person purchases for short-term licenses may push some visiting anglers toward annual licenses, even if they’re only fishing for a few days. Others, however, may simply decide not to fish at all.

That’s where the concern lies.

Freshwater guides in Central Florida report increased confusion among visiting clients, some of whom arrive assuming they can buy a license online as they always have. A few guides say bookings have softened, particularly for short notice trips, as visitors reconsider whether the hassle is worth it. FWC has released no data yet on participation or revenue trends since the change.

The irony is that license dollars are not incidental to Florida’s fisheries. Revenue from fishing licenses funds conservation, habitat work, research, enforcement, and stocking programs. Anything that suppresses legal participation—especially among visitors—has downstream effects that extend beyond inconvenience.

FWC has pointed out that licenses are still available at hundreds of locations statewide, and that simplifying the online license catalog makes the system easier to manage. From an internal operations standpoint, that may be true. From an angler’s perspective—particularly one flying in for a short trip—it feels like a step backward, an aggravating anachronism.

Fishing access isn’t just about ramps and shorelines. It’s also about how easy it is to participate legally. Florida markets itself as the fishing capital of the world, and much of that reputation rests on visiting anglers who come for a few days, spend money locally, and leave with plans to return.

Whether the change ultimately increases revenue efficiency or quietly discourages participation is something only time, and transparent data, will answer. For now, visiting anglers would be wise to plan ahead—and policymakers might consider whether administrative convenience is worth the cost of lost casts, lost trips, and lost goodwill.

– Frank Sargeant
Frankmako1@gmail.com