BlogSeptember 2022

5 Facts About National Hunting and Fishing Day

5 Facts About National Hunting and Fishing Day

By Debbie Hanson

Sep 21, 2022

Five facts to know about National Hunting and Fishing Day. How it originated, how to celebrate NHF Day, how it helps to create awareness about conservation

Did you know that National Hunting and Fishing Day is coming up? Get ready to join outdoorsmen and outdoorswomen across the country who have plans to celebrate National Hunting and Fishing Day (NHF Day) in September by learning a few key facts about this special day.

NHF Day is important because it reminds the public of how hunters and anglers help fund our nation’s conservation initiatives. Hunting and fishing permit sales supply more than half the income of state conservation agencies. This income is used for wildlife management, education, and safety programs. In addition, excise taxes on sporting equipment provide millions of dollars in funding for thousands of conservation projects across the country.

How NHF Day Started

NHF Day was created in 1971 by Congress. In June of that year, New Hampshire Senator Thomas McIntyre introduced Joint Resolution 117 authorizing every 4th Saturday in September to be National Hunting and Fishing Day (NHFD). On May 2, 1972, President Richard Nixon signed the first-ever proclamation of National Hunting and Fishing Day, which made it official.

What is National Hunting and Fishing Day?

NHF Day celebrates hunting, fishing, and shooting – it is the largest, most effective grassroots movement ever undertaken to promote outdoor sports and conservation. This federally recognized holiday brings together sportsmen and women from across America to celebrate the rich tradition of hunting and fishing through organized local, state, and national events.

When is National Hunting and Fishing Day?

NHF Day is celebrated the fourth Saturday in September every year. National Hunting and Fishing Day – September 24, 2022. As we prepare to celebrate the 50th year of NHF Day, you should know that the roots of this special day go back more than 100 years to President Theodore Roosevelt, who introduced the first laws regulating the hunting of wildlife in the U.S.

You Can Share Your Commitment to Conservation

You can help spread the word regarding your commitment to conservation by uploading an image of you hunting or fishing on National Hunting and Fishing Day and tagging @NHFday on social media (be sure to use the hashtag #GuideToOutside).

You Can Take Part in NHF Day Activities

You can take part in informative and fun NHF Day activities as a family. For example, kids fishing events, fishing seminars, hunting safety courses, and fundraisers that allow you to contribute to conservation causes. Some states, such as Georgia, also offer free fishing days on National Hunting and Fishing Day. When you and your family participate in outdoor sports, you develop a better understanding of nature and the value of our natural resources.

Share these five facts about NHF Day with your friends and family, then head outdoors to celebrate this September!

Debbie Hanson
Debbie Hanson
Debbie Hanson is an award-winning outdoor writer, women’s sport fishing advocate, IGFA world record holder, and freshwater guide living in Southwest Florida. Hanson’s written work has appeared in publications such as Florida Game & Fish Magazine, BoatUS Magazine, and USA Today Hunt & Fish. To learn more about her work, visit shefishes2.com or follow her on Instagram @shefishes2.