Kids enjoy canoeing at Outdoorama On The Rez, one of several NHF Day events across the GCC region.
Established by Congress in 1972, National Hunting and Fishing Day is celebrated the 4th Saturday of September. The day recognizes the contributions of America’s hunters, anglers, and other outdoors enthusiasts to our natural resources, with events in 37 states. This year, NHF Day is Saturday, September 28.
Across the country, wildlife agencies and organizations sponsor events aimed at getting kids and families to learn about the many facets of the great outdoors. There are usually numerous exhibits, as well as hands-on activities such as archery, fishing, target shooting, live animal displays, and more – including fly fishing. These events are made possible thanks to financial sponsorship and the help of volunteers and organizations.
In Louisiana, the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries hosts annual outdoor festivals at four venues – Bodcau, Monroe, Baton Rouge, and Woodworth – with attendance at each in the thousands. Admission is free, and there’s even food and soft drinks provided at no cost. The Waddill (Baton Rouge), Bodcau and Woodworth venues feature fly casting and fly tying thanks to the Red Stick Fly Fishers, North Louisiana Fly Fishers and Kistachie Fly Fishers clubs, respectively. For more details, go to www.wlf.louisiana.gov.
In Mississippi, the Mississippi Wildlife Federation hosts “Outdoorama On The Rez” at the Turcotte Education Center, located in Canton. Like the LDWF events, there are numerous exhibits and hands-on activities for all ages. There’s even fly casting and fly tying courtesy of the Magnolia Fly Fishers club. For more info, go to www.mswildlife.org.
For folks in south Alabama and northwest Florida, there’s the Wiregrass Wildlife Expo at the National Peanut Festival Fairgrounds in Dothan, Alabama. Unlike the one-day events in Louisiana and Mississippi, the Wiregrass takes place both Saturday and Sunday. In addition to vendors and exhibitors, fish and wildlife biologists will give seminars and demonstrations on a variety of topics. Alabama 4-H will offer fun outdoor activities for children and adults. Cost is $5 for adults, free for kids. All proceeds go to 4-H educational programs. For more info, go to www.aces.edu.
