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8 Campsites in Georgia You’ve Never Heard of Before

1. McDuffie Public Fishing Area

Located in Georgia’s upper coastal plain, McDuffie Public Fishing Area offers anglers 7 ponds ranging in size from 5 to 37 acres. Visitors may fish for Largemouth Bass, Bluegill, Channel Catfish, and Redear Sunfish while enjoying the longleaf pines and sandy soils. This area also offers opportunities for dove and waterfowl hunting. Waterfowl hunters must check kiosk at entrance gate for information on which ponds are open. Please check the Hunting Regulations for more information.

Make a Reservation at McDuffie PFA

2. Old Salem Campground

Shut down your phone and be one with nature at this beautiful, full-service campground. At Old Salem primitive campsites, you’ll find peace and tranquillity, and enjoy lovely scenery and nearby communities that are steeped in history. There’s something fun for the whole outdoorsy family including day-use picnic areas, swimming beach and playground, boat ramp, grill and pavilion for events and reunions. We ask all campers to vacate their site by 1:00 p.m. on day of check-out.

Make a Reservation at Old Salem Campground

3. Paradise Public Fishing Area

Located on 1,351 acres, Paradise PFA boasts 68 lakes totaling about 525 acres. The area is intensively managed for all outdoor enthusiasts and allows anglers to enjoy their day of fishing from boat or land. Fish species include largemouth bass, bluegill, redear sunfish, channel catfish, crappie and brown bullhead.

Make a Reservation at Paradise PFA

4. Lawrence Shoals Campground

Lawrence Shoals Park, located on Lake Oconee has a full-service campground with water and electrical hookups. We offer picnic table and grill, comfort stations with hot showers, washers/dryers, soft drink machines, ice, pay telephones, R/V dump stations, and camper and boat storage. In addition, the park offers playgrounds, boat docks for camper’s use only, and trails to beach and guest house. Beach and picnic areas boast white sand beaches with marked swimming areas and pavilions with barbecue pits.

Make a Reservation at Lawrence Shoals Campground

5. CEWC Clybel Wildlife Management Area

Located in Mansfield, Clybel WMA sits on 6,400 acres and is home to the Charlie Elliott Wildlife Center. Visitors of all ages can find something to do at this WMA, from visiting the nature center to walking the miles of trails. Clybel Wildlife Management Area has diverse habitats that are home to a variety of wildlife. Typical of Georgia’s Piedmont region, you will find old fields, planted pines, mixed pine-hardwood stands and mature hardwood forests. Management practices that benefit both game and nongame species include food plot rotations, mowing, prescribed burning, timber harvest and winter disking. Hunting opportunities include deer, turkey, small game, and dove.

Make a Reservation at CEWC Clybel WMA

6. Crockford-Pigeon Mountain WMA

This 20,657-acre state-owned Wildlife Management Area is in Northwest Georgia (Walker County). This area features abundant wildlife, miles of trails, unique natural features, and gorgeous views. Hunters consider it a favorite hunting destination for deer, turkey, squirrel, quail, and rabbit. Many protected species call this area home. Locations popular to visit include: Rocktown, Lost Wall, Pocket, Pettyjohn’s Cave, Sawmill Lake, Bluehole Springs, Civil War Wayside. This WMA boasts 5 designated camping areas, numerous trails and trailheads, and historic Mountain Cove. No ATVs on the property.

Online Reservations Coming Soon >

7. Dawson Forest WMA

The Dawson Forest Wildlife Management Area is located in Dawson County. This 25,500-acre property offers hunting for deer, bear, turkey, small game, dove, and waterfowl. There are five sections (tracts) of the WMA, including Wildcat Creek, Goethe, Burnt Mountain, Amicalola, and City of Atlanta. The DNR Wildlife Resources Division owns 15,000 acres of the forest, with the City of Atlanta owning the lower 10,000 acres.

Online Reservations Coming Soon >

8. Evans County PFA

Evans County Public Fishing Area is a 372-acre area that offers 3 different lakes for anglers to fish for Largemouth Bass, Bluegill, Brown Bullhead, Redear Sunfish, Channel Catfish, and Crappie. Lakes Longleaf, Wood and Bidd Sands attract more than 5,000 anglers each year with an additional almost 4,000 guests visiting the PFA. Bidd Sands Lake offers the best opportunities for anglers to get their hands on some bass in the upper end of the lake during the warmer months along with great hybrid bass. Lake Longleaf is best for Crappie halfway through November to March. This PFA also offers opportunities for Quota and Youth waterfowl hunts. Please check the Hunting Regulations for more information.

Make a Reservation at Evans County PFA

Why fishing has become the hottest new pandemic sport

[Originally from today.com]

The state of Vermont has already sold more fishing licenses in 2020 than all of last year. In the latest installment of TODAY’s Harry Smith Goes To… series, Harry investigates why fishing has become a hot new trend during the coronavirus pandemic. Afterward, he and the TODAY anchors share fishing memories.

Senate Passes Great American Outdoors Act

[Original Article on trcp.org, Written By: Cory Dea l]

Bill’s passage proves that conservation transcends partisanship

(Washington D.C)—The U.S. Senate today in a 73-25 vote passed the Great American Outdoors Act giving hunters and anglers a major win.

This bipartisan bill fully and permanently funds the Land and Water Conservation Fund and invests in the crumbling infrastructure on federal public land.

“Today’s vote is historic in many ways,” said Whit Fosburgh, president and CEO of the Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership. “It fulfills a promise we made 55 years ago to create a national legacy of investing in our natural resources. It also fixes our roads, trails, boat ramps, and recreational spaces so future generations can enjoy them. And it helps put Americans back to work through conservation at a time when unemployment rates are at near record levels.” Keep reading…

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Top 10 Tennessee State Parks for Fishing & Camping

[Original Article on tn.gov/twra-outdoors-blog, Written By: David Lowrie ]

What are the top 10 Tennessee State Parks for fishing and camping? My list is based upon my strong opinions acquired from some great experiences I’ve had in the parks with my family and friends.

With a total of 56 state parks, Tennessee has a lot to offer. Now, is the perfect time to get out an enjoy what Tennessee has to offer. For more in depth information about each of the locations discussed below or any other of the Tennessee State Parks visit: https://tnstateparks.com/

Now, here are my Top 10 Tennessee State Parks for fishing and camping: Keep reading…

School is looking a little different these days. Throughout the Commonwealth of Virginia, schools have closed for the remainder of the academic year, leaving many adjusting to a new normal. How do I continue to educate my children while keeping them both safe and entertained? We may not be able to send them to a classroom, but we can send to the world’s greatest teacher – the great outdoors!

Getting outside provides education, entertainment, and many health benefits for both kids and adults. Here are a few outdoor activities you can do with your kids, while maintaining social distancing guidelines.

1. Go Fishing

You know what they say about fishing… “Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day; teach a man how to fish and you feed him for a lifetime.” Teach your kids the lesson of a lifetime! With Virginia being home to over 176,000 acres of public lakes and 27,300 miles of fishable streams, there is no shortage of places to go! Be sure to purchase your license online before heading out and maintain proper social distance.

Buy Your Fishing License

2. Explore TikTok

If your kids have been glued to their screens watching the latest TikTok dances, head to your own yard or nearby Wildlife Management Area (WMA) and learn the dances together! Further inspire their creativity by encouraging them to create their own dance or video too. You can get some exercise, fresh air, and provide some entertainment to those passing by (6’ feet apart, of course).

3. Go Hunting

It’s spring turkey time! Kicking off the season with the “Youth and Apprentice Spring Turkey Hunting Weekend” April 4-5, this is a great time to take your kids and experience an exciting weekend outdoors! Children ages 12-15 and those who have not previously purchased a regular hunting license, are required to complete hunter education.

Regular Virginia Spring Turkey Season begins on April 11 and runs through May 16. There’s no better way to socially distance than in the woods!

Buy Your Hunting License

4. Go Boating

Do you have a boat or know someone who does? Spring is here and the weather is looking enticing for outdoor recreation. Take your kids out on a local lake or river, or hit the coast for an enjoyable day on the water. Make sure to keep your group small and maintain an appropriate social distance while fueling and launching your boat. Bring along your fishing gear for added fun!

5. Go Hiking

Kids in need of an adventure? Take them for a hike! Whether it’s short or long, on a path or a trail, a walk outdoors is great for physical and mental health. We recommend you carry bug spray, bring plenty of fluids, and a make a plan for returning to your car so you don’t get lost. Be sure to share your plans with family or friends and let them know you are safe upon return. Be mindful of all open hunting and trapping seasons, and be sure to wear blaze colored hat or clothing. Lastly, always leave the path or trail as clean as or cleaner than when you found it. Take only photos and leave only footprints.

Try exploring one of Virginia’s 46 Wildlife Management Areas including the above-pictured Big Woods WMA.

6. Go Biking

If your kids know how to ride a bike, now is a great time for them to put their skill to good use! Whether it’s just around the neighborhood or on an off-road trail, riding a bike is a great social distancing activity for kids of all ages and fitness levels. The Luray-Hawksbill Greenway is just one of many public areas where biking is safe and peaceful.

7. Go Camping

Whether in your own backyard or at one of Virginia’s many beautiful WMAs, grab your gear and have some fun. Camping is a great way to ease stress and take a break from screen time. Have your kids put down the phone or tablet and create memories in nature that will last a lifetime. If primitive camping just isn’t for you, hop online and start planning your fall camping trip to one of Virginia’s 28 states parks so you have something to look forward to.

8. Watch the Falcom Cam

Although you don’t have to be outside to enjoy this one, go watch The DGIF Falcon Cam! The live video stream follows the breeding season of a Peregrine Falcon pair that nests in downtown Richmond, Virginia. The nest box is located atop the Riverfront Plaza building.

Watch the Falcon Cam

9. Go Paddling

Whether you have a kayak, stand up paddleboard, or canoe, break out those paddles and go explore a local waterway. Don’t forget your life jackets and a whistle. Need some help figuring out where to go? There’s a guide for that.

Kayak Guide Bundle

10. Go Bugging

Explore the excitement of bugs! Grab some gloves, a magnifying glass, and your camera, and head down to the neighborhood creek to see what critters you can find. Frogs eat insects so if you see one of these guys, you’re on the right track! Roll over a log, check under the rocks, zoom into the bark of a tree or open your eyes to flying bugs. Once you have documented the character traits and descriptions, learn more about their beauty and might here with the Insect Identification tools for the casual observer.

Don’t Blow This for the Rest of Us: How We Keep Hunting and Fishing During the Pandemic

[Original Article on Meateater.com Written By: Joe Carmele]

Apr 8, 2020

The last week of March Raritan Bay really caught fire. This 70,000-acre piece of water, part of the New York bight, is flanked by North Jersey and Staten Island. The Manhattan skyline at the mouth of the Hudson River paints the bay’s northern backdrop. Every spring, Raritan gives cabin fever-racked salty anglers their first crack at big striped bass. The fish pile into this shallow, confined bay in April to stage for the spawn, and targeting them on a weekend can give a whole new meaning to “combat fishing.”

This year, Raritan isn’t just the nucleus of early-season striper action; it also sits in the epicenter of some of the hottest COVID-19 zones in the country. Neither nation-high infection numbers nor stay-at-home orders from both New Jersey and New York seem to be discouraging many anglers from crowding onto boats or lining up at ramps. Keep reading..

TWRA Covid-19 Hunting/Fishing FAQ’s

Covid-19 has created an enormous amount of questions surrounding our ability to hunt and fish in Tennessee during this crazy time. The Governor, the Tennessee Wildlife Commission, and your TWRA believe that the outdoors plays an integral role in the health of all Tennesseans. Below are some answers to the most Frequently Asked Questions that we have received over the past few weeks. In the event these answers change, we will update this list.

Click here to see to see updates.

Council Encourages Outdoor Enthusiasts to Respect COVID-19 Recommendations

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 6, 2020

Media Contact:
Samantha Pedder
samantha@cahss.org

(Washington, D.C) – As the COVID-19 crisis continues to impact public health, the Council to Advance Hunting and the Shooting Sports (Council) and its partners are committed to preventing the spread of the virus by following federal guidelines issued by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, in addition to those from State and local agencies.

As spring hunting and fishing seasons start around the country, the Council and its partners want to encourage all hunters, target shooters, and other outdoor enthusiasts to recreate responsibly during these challenging times. Keep reading…

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Cabin Fever Fix: Pan-Fried Redfish for Dinner

After several weeks now of teleworking, cabin fever has set in. Cooking is a great stress reliever for me and a fun way to spend time with my family. The cast iron skillet was calling and the beat of the red drum I recently caught was just what was needed to splash the grease. Here are the simple steps to this tasty meal which fed our family of three dinner, plus an easy “fish dip” for the boat the next day.

We are cooking up a redfish caught in the northern Gulf of Mexico along Florida’s “Forgotten Coast”. Redfish take on different names regionally such as channel bass, spot tails, or drum. We target and catch these tasty and strong fish all year long. The warmer months of March through October are our favorite time to fish with artificial baits including spoons, soft plastics and topwater plugs.

Purchase your fishing license online

GoOutdoorsFlorida.com

Download the app and pick up your durable collectors card, which features the tasty redfish.

Here are the steps and pics of our most enjoyable preparation of dinner. Try these out on your next chance you have some fresh fish to cook:

1. Prepare the filets. Cut out any bones which were not removed when cleaning the fish. Cut into your preferred frying and plating sizes, whether in “cubes” or “sticks”. Pat dry.
2. Prepare the egg wash. I whisked four eggs with equal parts milk to soak the fish in for a few minutes before tossing into the batter.
3. Prep the batter. We often use cracker meal or breadcrumbs to batter redfish filets when pan frying. These breadcrumbs were mixed with salt (to taste) in a bowl before dumping into a doubled up paper sack. Filets are placed in the bag and shaken well to fully cover the filets.
4. Heat Skillet with Extra Virgin Olive Oil. Whether a family heirloom, a garage sale find or yours purchased new, the cast iron skillet remains the tried and true tool in the kitchen for cooking countless delicious meals. This old skillet delights each meal and is stored with a coat of EVOO in between performances.
5a. These “cube” shaped poppers are plump and fresh. Fresh fish has very little aroma. When the fish hits the EVOO with the seasoned batter the smells come alive and bring out emotion from anyone downwind. Take a look at this fresh, plump redfish going into the skillet for the first time.
5b. Sticks in the skillet. Stick-shaped cuts of redfish are easy to prepare cutting along natural lines of filets to make easy-to-handle servings but larger than the cubes. For the thinner portions of the filet, towards the tail, or smaller fish use the sticks technique.
The chef’s reward. The chef reserves the right to sneak a popper. In this case the chef launched the boat, rigged the bait of choice (spoon) and presented it to the fish. This redfish did not die in vain.
6. Let ‘em rest. These redfish sticks were the first out of the skillet. They will rest here on paper towels until it is time for supper. By resting on paper towels excess oil will drain out of the batter and will ensure the crisp remains for the mouth to enjoy.
7. Dinner is served! Pan fried redfish, rice pilaf, fresh squash and zuchinie and a dollop of tarter sauce. Enjoy your next respite from cabin fever with an easy and fresh plate. You’ll be glad you did.

Ingredients:

10 oz redfish (or other fresh white fish filet)
½ tsp. Salt (or to taste)
¼ tsp. Black pepper (or to taste)
1 cup Seasoned bread crumbs
4 eggs
1 cup milk (heavier the better)
½ cup extra virgin olive oil

Directions:

Prepare fish filets by deboning and cutting to preferred serving size.
Whisk eggs and add milk in bowl to wash (soak) fish filets for 10 min.
Place seasonings and breadcrumbs in paper sack.
Add extra virgin olive oil to cast iron skillet to cover bottom of pan, less than ¼” deep.
Heat skillet to 350 degrees or until a “test” batter turns brown within 10 seconds.
Take filets out of wash and insert into paper sack with breading mix. Shake.
Fry filets in the hot oil for about three minutes on each side, until golden brown. Don’t crowd the pan to ensure they become crispy.

Bonus: Tarter Sauce…1/4 cup of mayo, fork full of relish, finish with paprika.

Go Catch Your Own

Buy a fishing license at gooutdoorsflorida.com

Head out on the water to take in the great beauty around us while keeping safe distances from others.

GoOutdoorsFlorida.com

Adventure Journal’s List of COVID-19 Impacts

Rather than write new stories each time the closure of a retail store or campground is announced, or particular activities are shut down because of coronavirus, Adventure Journal is maintaining a running list here, updating it with new information as it’s available.

View List

Guide to Quarantine: Outdoor Checklist

WRITTEN BY: Council to Advance Hunting and The Shooting Sports

Outdoor Checklist:

Target shoot (if you can do so safely on private land)
Practive your game calling (your neighbors will love this one)
Get some extra training in with your hunting dog
Go shed hunting
Go turkey hunting
Go fishing
Go kayaking, canoeing, or paddle boarding
Go foraging for wild edibles (mushrooms, berries, etc.)
Waterproof hiking boots and camping gear

10 Things You Can Do Outdoors in Georgia

As we continue to navigate uncharted waters right now with COVID-19, one thing is certain in this time of uncertainty – our daily lives have been affected.

We may not be going out to eat, shopping in stores, or visiting the movie theater, but there’s plenty of safe and enjoyable outdoor activities you can do in Georgia to pass the time. Better yet, there’s quite a few health benefits from getting outdoors.

1. Go Fishing

Georgia is home to 10 world class Public Fishing Areas (PFAs). No boat? No problem. You can fish from the bank of one of the accessible fishing docks! Boaters will enjoy boat ramps and ample parking before taking to the water. Be sure to purchase your license online before you head out and maintain proper social distance.

Buy Your Fishing License

2. Go Hunting

Spring Turkey Season officially opened March 21. If you’re ready for the challenge and reward, gear up! The thrill of hearing a turkey gobble from the roost and the skill of calling a long beard in ranks among the highest of hunting experiences. Whether a diaphragm, box or slate call is use or if you decide to deploy a decoy to aid in the hunt, the challenge awaits. Photo credit: Joe Berry.

Buy Your Hunting License

3. Go Boating

Whether you’re lucky enough to have a boat or know someone with one, there’s no time like the present to pack a picnic and hit the lake, river or ocean. Keep your group small and remember to stay at least 6’ apart from others while you fuel up, launch your boat, and when out on the water. Add a bottle of sunscreen to your hand sanitizer bottle stash and catch a sunrise, sunset, or both on the boat.

4. Go Camping

Jump in the RV or grab your tent and head to one of Georgia’s beautiful campgrounds located in their pristine WMAs or PFAs. It’s a great time to take in fresh air and alleviate stress. Camping is one of a few activities which have a way of lasting forever in the memories of those who are able to sleep under the stars. Keep a log of your experience by sitting in your tent or camper and recording how the trip makes you feel so you will know which campsite, weather and activities made your stay memorable. Photo credit: Travis Eisenhauer.

Book Your Campground Reservation

5. Go Hiking

Hiking: /ˈhīkiNG/; noun: the activity of going for long walks, especially in the country or woods. Define long, country and woods how you like – just go for a walk and thank us later. Carry bug spray, plenty of fluids and a means to return to your car and not get lost. Be sure to share your plans with family and friends so they know you are safe upon your planned return time, and check the status of your favorite trail here. Lastly, always pack-in and pack-out your refuse so the trail remains a place where users take only photos and leave only footprints.

Hike Clybel WMA

6. Go Biking

On the road or off, biking is yet another bonus activity which relieves stress, increases heart rate and can be done while social distancing. Bike trails and easy-for-all-ages paths are rarely crowded and offer nap-preparation energy burn, which may be needed for sanity in many houses during this time. The Clybel WMA is just one of many public areas where biking is safe and serene.

Bike Clybel WMA

7. Go Birding

Birding opportunities abound in Georgia from backyards to natural areas within a short drive from every county in the state. The Altamaha WMA offers spectacular birding opportunities including an observation tower at the Ansley Hodges M.A.R.S.H. Project, which also offers hiking opportunities. Migrating birds such as the swallowtail kite are commonly seen in Georgia. The swallowtail kite (pictured) is a bird of prey with spectacular flight maneuvers as it swoops in to catch snakes and lizards while enjoying them as a meal during flight.

Altamaha WMA

8. Geocaching

The world’s largest (and most fun for kids) treasure hunt combines the outdoors, technology and treasure to the amazement of cachers of all ages. It is an easy activity with a quick download of a geocaching app you are on your way. Many geocaches are discoverable in public parks and lands. During this time of social distancing be sure to abide by the “no muggles” technique (don’t giveaway what you are up to by passersby) and either observe-only the caches or wear personal protective equipment (gloves) when handling geocaches.

HINT: Somethings Fishy in Paradise (PFA)

Geocaching App

9. Go Bugging

Grab some gloves, a magnifying glass, and your camera and hit the backyard or public land nearby to explore the excitement of bugs! Roll over a log, find a pitcher plant, zoom into the bark of a tree or open your eyes to flying bugs. Once you have documented the character traits and descriptions, learn more about their beauty and might here with the Insect Identification tools for the casual observer.

10. Go Take a Nap

Lie in a hammock, on a blanket or lean against a tree. You have been through a lot over the last few weeks. Take a minute (or 30) and take a rest. Listen to the birds, the wind blow and take a breath of fresh air.

5 Best Places to Go Fishing Near Metro Atlanta

It’s easier than you think to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and get back to nature. Cast in the shadows of Metro Atlanta’s skyscrapers, you’ll find a handful of spur of the moment fishing holes just outside the perimeter.

Buy your fishing license and try out one of these places near you!

Buy Your Fishing License

1. Sweetwater Creek State Park

Lithia Springs – Douglas County

Five miles from Six Flags over Georgia lies an adventure at Sweetwater Creek State Park. The 215 acre George Sparks Reservoir is a popular place outside of the metro to wet a line. Fish attractors throughout the lake will make sure you bring home dinner. If you catch the nature bug while you’re downtown, don’t fret about not having your gear with you. Fishing tackle is available at the nearby bait shop. Complete with a museum and a Visitor’s Center with wildlife exhibits, you’ll definitely want to make a weekend getaway out of this place. Plan to stay at one of the 10 yurts on site!

2. Fort Yargo State Park

Winder – Barrow County

Looking for a fun get away spot between Athens and Atlanta? Fort Yargo state park provides over 1800 acres of adventure-ready landscape ranging from 20.5 miles of hiking and biking trails to a 260-acre lake stocked with bass, bream, catfish, and crappie. Swim at the beach, picnic by the water, or stay for the weekend in one of the many cottages, cabins, yurts, or campsites. You can’t go wrong with a spontaneous trip out to this beautiful state park.

3. Stone Mountain Lake

Stone Mountain – DeKalb County

Stone Mountain Lake is the largest body of water in Stone Mountain Park. It is a beautiful 323-acres and offers a variety of on-the-water activities like kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. The lake has good numbers of bass, carp, crappie, catfish, and bream can be accessed during all daylight hours. It’s so close to home that you can cut the grass at 5pm and go fishing at 6pm.

4. High Falls State Park

Jackson – Butts County

Replace this text with descriptive copy to go along wJust northwest of Macon you’ll find High Falls State Park. This jewel is named for its scenic cascades and is considered one of Georgia’s top fishing spots for hybrid and white bass. Hone in your fly-fishing skills or bait for catfish — there’s something for everyone here. While you’re there, make sure to try and catch a bigun down by the old powerhouse!

5. Red Top Mountain State Park

Acworth – Bartow County

Two words: Lake Allatoona. Here you’ll find 12,000 acres of lake known for excellent trophy bass, catfish, crappie or blue gill fishing. The 200 sunken Christmas trees within casting distances of the jetty is a gift to anglers in search of a lunker. While you’re there, take a hike along the gravel-topped 4-mile Iron Hill Trail to see picturesque views of the lake’s shoreline.

Buy your fishing license and try out one of these places near you!

Buy Your Fishing License

How target shooters can vote on which states receive the most USFWS conservation funding

In the early 1900s, sportsmen’s organizations and state wildlife agencies were terrified with their unprecedented declines in U.S. wildlife populations. In order to generate funds to support state wildlife conservation efforts, the Federal Aid in Wildlife Restoration Act was passed in 1937. This act put an excise tax on firearms, ammunition, and archery equipment to be used by states to fund wildlife restoration. Today, the Act is often referred to as the Pittman-Robertson Act (P-R Act) after its two key champions: Senator Key Pittman of Nevada and Congressman Willis Robertson of Virginia.

The P-R Act generates funds through an 11% excise tax on long guns, ammunition, and archery equipment and a 10% excise tax on handguns. This tax revenue goes into a U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) account that is then divided up amongst the state wildlife agencies for wildlife restoration programs and hunter education.

So how does USFWS decide which states get the biggest piece of the Wildlife Restoration Account pie? They used a combination of total area for managed land and number of paid licensed hunters to determine the split amongst states.

In many states, public shooting ranges are maintained by the state wildlife agency.

Support your state by buying an annual hunting license, and do your part in ensuring your state has the funds they need to continue their wildlife conservation efforts.

Resources: