MARCH 31, 2025
 
 
 

We are stoked to launch another exclusive series on The Hunting Wire - The Guide & Outfitters Series - sponsored by Dallas Safari Club. During this past year's DSC Show in Atlanta, I had a terrific brainstorming session with DSC's own Conor Harrison about what we can do together to help our industry advocate for, educate, and empower the guide and outfitting industry - and ultimately hunting on a global scale. This series is the result of that conversation. We're excited to bring it to our industry with fellow voices from our industry.

Speaking of global adventures, Wendy and I are champing at the bit to travel to New Zealand next month to hunt stag and tahr. I'll tote my bow and a rifle for this once-in-a-lifetime adventure.

Plus, our Voice of Leadership Panel continues to matter. Cassie Gasaway knocks another topic out of the park. Read on to find out what it is!

Oh - and it's almost turkey season y'all.

Have a great week,

Jay Pinsky
Editor - The Hunting Wire
jay@theoutdoorwire.com

Lifeblood.

A noun meaning a vital or life-giving force or component. Nothing describes the hard-working men and women who comprise the ranks of guides and outfitters in the hunting industry any better. 

When Jay Pinsky with The Hunting Wire approached DSC about sponsoring this series, it was an easy yes. What a great way to bring awareness to current issues impacting guides and outfitters and tell the personal stories of so many experienced, interesting and colorful figures in the outdoors arena.

One of the most critical elements of many adventures away from home is the client/guide relationship. With a great one, while the hunt may well be the toughest, most rugged adventure you have experienced, it may also be the most memorable and fulfilling experience of your life! And likewise, a poor guide/client relationship can turn a trip sour in an instant. 

DSC is proud to sponsor this series, which we firmly believe will shed light on some of the finest guides and outfitters in the world. True conservationists who understand the important role hunting plays in sound science-based wildlife management. The same people who go the extra mile to ensure their clients stay safe and have a positive experience, often ending with an incredible trophy and always generating thrilling tales of high adventure.

On behalf of everyone at DSC, our members, volunteers, exhibitor partners, board and staff, we hope that you find this new “Guide & Outfitters Series” reflects the best in our industry and we welcome any comments or suggestions for future stories of the incredible men and women who shine brightest in the guide and outfitter world!

About DSC
Dallas Safari Club’s mission is to ensure the conservation of wildlife through public engagement, education and advocacy for well-regulated hunting and sustainable use.

The vision of DSC is a society that values wildlife, engages in its conservation and understands and supports the role of well-regulated hunting. A member of International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), DSC is a mission-focused conservation organization, funded by hunters from around the world.

With an administrative staff of less than 15 and a volunteer army of 500, DSC hosts an annual Convention that raises funds for grants in conservation, education and advocacy. This year, DSC will also host the Inaugural Summer Expo & Foundation Gala, July 17-19 in Grapevine, Texas. Go to Biggame.org for more information.

By Cassie Gasaway

Every time I leave my house, no matter where I go, I see children watching something on a tablet, their parent’s iPhone or a screen hung in a restaurant or waiting room. They’re in this transfixed, paralyzed trance, unaware of their surroundings or people trying to interact with them. I see it everywhere, but I don’t see children playing outside very often, and it’s even more rare to see kids or teenagers trailing behind adults on hunting adventures.

According to the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service’s 2022 National Survey of Fishing, Hunting, and Wildlife-Associated Recreation, the number of children ages 6 to 15 years old that participated in hunting increased from 1.2 million in 2020 to 1.8 million in 2021. However, the pre-pandemic years of 2017 to 2019 had less than 1 million kids participating, and many believe the numbers have returned or declined in recent years.

I know many factors may contribute to a decline in youth hunting participation, including urbanization, family priority shifts, complex hunting regulations, and alternative recreation options, but I think we’re staring (quite literally) at the biggest culprit.

The Kaiser Family Foundation found kids ages 8-18 spend an average of 7.5 hours in front of a screen for entertainment each day. Additionally, the Child Mind Institute found American children spend about four to seven minutes playing outside. Research finds similar trends for adults. And the daily screen time statistic continues to increase globally for all age groups, some reports showing an increase of 30 minutes per day each year.

Because people and children spend more time inside watching screens than they spend outside engaging in nature and physical activities, it’s unlikely they’ll be introduced to or interested in any type of hunting.

A lot of screen time, such as playing video games, scrolling social media, searching the web or watching TV, music videos or a newsfeed, can negatively affect physical and mental health. Sitting for prolonged periods put you at risk for increased blood pressure, high blood sugar, excess body fat and unhealthy cholesterol levels. High daily screen time is also associated with fatigue and poor sleep habits. Mentally, daily screen time is linked to increased anxiety and depression, and brain development delays, especially in younger children.

On the other hand, studies regularly show time spent outside equals improved sleep, a boosted immune system and reduced stress, anxiety and depression. Plus, many outdoor activities involve physical activity, which promotes cardiovascular health and muscle strength. Research also proves being in nature can increase focus and concentration, while enhancing creativity and problem-solving skills.

No matter how many screens surround us daily, we must intentionally choose to limit screen time with the children in our lives and instead, bring them outside. The more we take kids outside, the more they beg to be there — and the more likely they’ll be interested in hunting, which has additional positive benefits.

If you have a child in your life, use these tips to transition them off screens and into nature.

Trim Screen Time Slowly but Start Now
Many experts and organizations, including the American Academy of Pediatrics, recommend no screen time for children under 2, one hour per day for children 2 to 12, and two hours per day for teens and adults. According to the Mayo Clinic, you must be realistic about your reduction expectations and trim in gradual progressions to hit targeted limits. Many sources encourage parents to start now, saying the longer you wait to detox children and teens from screens, the harder it will be. Also, be a positive role model and lead by example. Children watch, learn from and copy adults, so it’s best to put down your phone, too.

Offer Outdoor Time Frequently
Any time your child has free time, you take away a device or turn off the TV, go outside. Go for a walk, draw with chalk, kick or throw a ball, find or collect bugs, go on a scavenger hunt for leaves, acorns, rocks, animal tracks, etc. Older kids might enjoy kayaking, biking a nature trail, skipping stones on a pond or foraging for berries or arrowheads. The activity doesn’t have to be hunting-related, but if you want them to hunt eventually, the more connections you can make, the better. And remember, whatever you do, show your enthusiasm and be engaged.

Build on Outdoor Experiences
Every child is different, so offer activities that will resonate or excite your child. If you’re dealing with a kid that prefers the indoors, you may have to introduce them to the outdoors using inside activities first. For example, read nature and hunting themed books from the library or hang a bird feeder and ID species from the window. Slowly expand their comfort zone outdoors by exploring the backyard or a local park to search under rocks, logs, etc., for critters, or talk about different types of environments and habitats and what type of creatures might live there. Then, explore new places, like state parks and wildlife management areas. Providing new experiences can reinvigorate a spirit of adventure and simulate the dopamine rush kids get from receiving digital notifications, further helping them forget about their devices.

Take In-Person Classes
Many outdoor pro shops, parks and recreation departments, and state and federal parks offer outdoor activities and classes. Search online to find in-person programs on hiking, gardening, invasive species, conservation efforts, birdwatching, beekeeping, shooting archery or firearms, bowhunting, bowfishing and more. Also, consider involving your child in a 4-H, Scouts or Future Farmers of America program. Introducing kids to a variety of outdoor classes, groups and activities ensures they’ll find something that interests and entertains them. Plus, hands-on classes allow you to meet like-minded people and learn about other opportunities. When the child is old enough to understand the seriousness of ethics and firearms safety, consider a hunter education class.

Invite Them Hunting
Pick a type of hunting suitable for the child’s age, interest, capabilities and energy level. For example, shed hunting is good for talkative, energetic toddlers; where legal, squirrel hunting with an air gun is ideal for the 5- to 8-year-old age group; and run-and-gun turkey hunting works well for 9- to 12-year-olds. Meanwhile, the 13-plus crowd can likely sit still quietly enough in a ground blind to pursue deer or waterfowl. Then, make the ask. Most often, if you’ve cultivated their love for the outdoors, they’ll want to go. Make the hunt more about them as opposed to harvesting something, and tune into the things that excite your child to provide more fitting follow-up activities. Always teach them to respect wildlife. It’s best not to occupy the child with a phone when afield or you’ll inhibit learning opportunities. Keep them engaged by sharing stories and discussing what you see or hear.

Final Thoughts
Unfortunately, many American families created an indoor culture centered on screens, but it’s not too late to change. For their physical and mental well-being, reduce screen time and provide children with opportunities to play outside. Their comfort in — and connection to — nature is the first step to becoming a hunter.

2024-2025 Voice of Leadership Panelists
Rachel Barringer - Marketing & Digital Manager, Blaser Group
Allen Forkner - Vice President Public Relations & Brand Management - Gunbroker.Com
Cassie Gasaway - Outdoor Content Creator & Freelance Writer
Jeff Rawlinson - Vice President, National Archery in Schools Program
Tom Ryle - Sales and Marketing Manager, State R3 Lead for Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife
Taylor Schmitz - Director, Federal Relations, Congressional Sportsmen's Foundation

Facilitators
• Peter Churchbourne, Managing Director, NRA Hunting Division and Hunter Leadership Forum
• Jim Curcuruto, Executive Director, Outdoor Stewards of Conservation Foundation
• James "Jay" Pinsky, Editor, The Hunting Wire & Archery Wire

The Voice of Leadership Panel is an appointed group of outdoor industry leaders who have volunteered to contribute their voices on crucial hunting and outdoor recreation issues to inform, inspire, and educate participants within our community.

HUNTING NEWS & INFORMATION

Known for its durable, ultra-bright LED flashlights, headlamps, lanterns, and work lights, LitezAll is a trusted name among hunters, campers, and outdoor enthusiasts who demand reliable lighting in any environment.

GunBroker.com has partnered with Venku to provide hunters the access, expertise, information and gear they need for their next hunting adventure.

Join NWTF R3 Coordinator, Kasie Harriet, R3 Fishing Coordinator Jacob Tison and Game Warden Jacob Harriet from the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation as they breakdown the basics of turkey hunting in Oklahoma. Each class of the 3-part series will be aired live at noon on Tuesday, April 1 on YouTube.

Pope and Young announces more partners that will be joining them at the Pope and Young 34th Biennial Convention taking place in Glendale, AZ, April 9-12, 2025.

The company is looking to add an Email Marketing Specialist and a Digital Marketing Specialist. These roles would be on-site in Sioux Falls, SD, although remote and hybrid are possible for the right candidate.

“Whitetails Unlimited is proud to announce that Hawke Optics is continuing their longstanding relationship with us,” said WTU President Jeff Schinkten.

Marsupial Gear is proud to announce its new partnership with Mossy Oak, bringing the legendary Bottomland camo pattern to a premium line of Marsupial Gear products.

To Our Valued Partners, It is hard to believe it is already March 24 and that Q1 of 2025 is almost complete.  I want to apologize for such a long gap from my last update on January 21 where I promised to have details on the future of the DSC Convention for the next 5 years by early February. 

Have you checked out Conservation First USA’s raffle where 10 lucky individuals will win one of 10 special big-game tags (elk, pronghorn, bighorn sheep, mule deer, white-tailed deer, bison, turkey, javelina, bear and mountain lion) for the 2025–26 hunting season?

As turkey season approaches, SEVR is here to help hunters bring home more birds. Success in the field starts with choosing the right equipment, and SEVR broadheads give hunters the edge they need.

It’s almost time for one of our favorite times of the entire year: spring turkey season. The thrill of stalking a big tom is unmatched for those who share this passion for one of America’s most popular game birds. 

Antler King will attend the 2025 Wisconsin Open Season Sportsman’s Expo in Wisconsin Dells. Featuring national exhibitors, educational seminars, a trophy buck contest, and door prizes, the event is slated for March 28-30 at Kalahari Resorts & Conventions.

Burris Optics announced renowned turkey hunter, photographer, and storyteller, Stephen Spurlock, is joining the Burris team as its newest brand ambassador. Spurlock will be utilizing the Burris FastFire 4 and all-new FFE (FastFire Enclosed) throughout the spring turkey season as he embarks on his latest hunting adventures.

Join in person or register to bid online on some of the very best hunting opportunities from some of the industry’s leading outfitters and partners

Produced by Robbie Kroger with Blood Origins Podcast, DSC CEO Rob McCanna recently sat down and discussed all things DSC with Robbie. Rob talks about his tenure as the new CEO, addresses rumors about the show and the move from Dallas to Atlanta, and provides a vision for the future of what DSC will do next and where DSC goes from here.

Dryshod offers a lineup of hunting boots designed to meet the demands of different conditions when turkey hunting.

White Label Payment Solution Continues to Add New Merchants in the Shooting Sports and Hunting Industry—Saving Merchants Money and Speeding Up Payments.

Get Immersed in a Channel Dedicated to Free, Ad-Supported Streaming of Live Events and Outdoor Adventures

The Boone and Crockett Club has announced that Tony Caligiuri of Osceola, Iowa has been elected as the new president of the 138-year-old organization.

“Wildlife Research Center is a leader in the industry, constantly innovating and working very hard to improve their products in order to help hunters be more successful.”

Run and gun for hours or stay dry in the stand with the lightweight Predator XT Series from ThermaSeat.

Ten different organizations received grants pertaining to outdoor education, habitat enhancement, and hunting and shooting sports preservation. This was done in large part with the assistance of Whitetails Unlimited’s 11 Georgia chapters.

Sierra Bullets and Barnes Bullets are proud to announce the launch of its new websites. Both sites have undergone significant upgrades to enhance functionality and improve user experiences, allowing customers to better access offerings from Sierra Bullets and Barnes Bullets. 

Crafted entirely from genuine carbon fiber—a material renowned for its use in aviation, aerospace, and professional racing—these holsters are three times as durable as Kydex, offering steel-like strength at a fraction of the weight.

With original premieres and new episodes from returning series across all networks, viewers can expect the most original outdoor programming focused on their passions beginning on Monday, March 31.

Federal Ammunition recently added a new 10mm Auto, 200-grain Jacketed Soft Point (JSP) load to its Handgun Hunting Power-Shok ammunition product line. 

Outdoor Edge’s new EDC knife collection showcases six distinctive models, each tailored to meet different needs, yet all promise performance without compromise.

Mossy Oak has released its fourth annual wild turkey conservation stamp, a collectible stamp in which all proceeds go directly to wild turkey conservation projects around the country.

Pennsylvania hunters harvested about 11% more deer in the 2024-25 hunting seasons than they did the year before, according to Pennsylvania Game Commission estimates released. The statewide 2024-25 harvest is estimated at 476,880 deer, 175,280 of them antlered deer and 301,600 antlerless.

The Montana Fish and Wildlife Commission will hold an emergency public meeting Monday, March 31 to consider closing bighorn sheep hunting for 2025 in hunting district 622. The commission meeting will start at 10 a.m. and be streamed online via the FWP website or FWP’s YouTube channel.

Buck Knives, Inc., a global leader in the hunting, EDC, adventure tools, pocket knives, and cutlery markets, makes numerous knives that will help you with chores from notching your tag to removing the bird's breast and legs for cooking.

The TRP family of pistols has now been expanded to include eight new models featuring not only the Agency Optic System (AOS), but also — and for the first time ever — 9mm variants.

Rock Ridge Outdoors is proud to offer The Grind decoys, a line of ultra-realistic turkey decoys built by hunters, for hunters. These decoys are crafted to give hunters a competitive edge in the field, offering lifelike detail, and durability to help create the most effective turkey spreads possible.

The Outdoor Stewards of Conservation Foundation (OSCF) is celebrating a significant milestone with its “Keepers of the Wild” public service announcement (PSA).

Competitive shooters and range enthusiasts already love the Defender-XL Micro Red Dot in 8 MOA and 5 MOA for its massive window and crystal-clear glass.

 
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