NOMAD announced the launch of the Ambush Shooting Shirt, a performance-driven evolution designed specifically for wingshooters. The shirt features UPF 30+ protection, laser-perforated back venting, moisture-wicking performance, reinforced recoil patches, and an interior eyewear wipe, available in Mossy Oak Bottomland, Mossy Oak Migrate, and NOMAD Mud patterns.
EchoCore Suppressors' Sector 5.56 Full Size maintains its No. 1 ranking among 5.56 suppressors in the Silencer Summit's consolidated testing results following the 2026 evaluation. The suppressor's top position is based on Shooter's Ear LEQ dBA measurements, which evaluate acoustic energy over time to reflect real-world sound exposure. EchoCore Suppressors products are distributed exclusively through Silencer Shop and its nationwide dealer network.
EchoCore Suppressors' Topo 22 earned second place in the .22LR suppressor category at the 2026 Silencer Summit and maintains its No. 2 position in consolidated all-time rankings. The titanium suppressor, manufactured using advanced DMLS additive technology, is distributed exclusively through Silencer Shop and its nationwide dealer network.
The Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation presented Rep. Ryan Zinke with its Excellence in Advocacy Award for his legislative support of conservation priorities including forest management, big game habitat, and public land access. Zinke, a three-term congressman and former Secretary of the Interior, authored key legislation such as the Fix Our Forests Act and co-sponsored the Grizzly Bear State Management Act.
Nebraska Game and Parks encourages deer hunters in eight units to order free mail-in chronic wasting disease testing kits before the 2026 season. Kits are available through Dec. 25 at OutdoorNebraska.gov or at Game and Parks offices in Alliance, Kearney, and North Platte, with samples accepted through Jan. 31.
SIGHTRON ambassadors Adam Migel and Jeremy Pepin placed 1st and 3rd respectively at the 2026 Pyramyd Air Cup Gunslynger competition held at Cardinal Shooting Center in Marengo, Ohio. Both competitors utilized SIGHTRON's S-TAC 1-6x24 AR1 Riflescope, praising its precision and reliability in the fast-draw, bracket-style competition.
The California Department of Fish and Wildlife has published guidance on conserving four bumble bee species—Crotch's, Franklin's, Western, and Suckley's cuckoo bumble bees—that became CESA candidates in September 2022. The document provides life history, ecology, and conservation measures to help avoid or minimize impacts to these protected species.
Duck Commander, the renowned duck call manufacturer founded by Phil Robertson, is the title sponsor of the 2026 North Louisiana Sportsman's Expo in West Monroe, August 28-30. The company has created a guide featuring local attractions including the Duck Commander Museum & Store, regional restaurants like Belle's Old South Diner and JAC's Craft Smokehouse, downtown shops, and natural areas including Black Bayou National Wildlife Refuge.
Michigan DNR highlights September outdoor activities including the Great Outdoors Jamboree presented by Pheasants Forever, harvest festivals at state parks, dune interpretation walks at Muskegon State Park, astronomy events at Island Lake Recreation Area, foraging and waterfowl hunting clinics, and the Heritage Gathering at Kellogg Community College focusing on Underground Railroad history.
The 2026-27 Hunting & Trapping Digest clarifies hunter orange requirements for bowhunters. When archery and firearms seasons overlap, bowhunters in tree stands are encouraged to wear hunter orange, except when it becomes required during the six-day firearm season.
Whitetails Unlimited has launched a Sight-In Target Initiative providing free shooting range kits to help hunters and enthusiasts safely and accurately sight-in firearms before deer season. Each complimentary kit includes three 100-yard targets with grids and a firearm safety poster. Contact Whitetails Unlimited at 920.743.6777 or nh@whitetailsunlimited.com to order.
UNIT Solutions, an Ohio-based manufacturer of the UNIT4 Training Rifle and UNIT9 Training Pistol, ranked No. 358 on Inc. Magazine's 2026 Inc. 5000 list with 967% three-year revenue growth. The non-lethal training systems company also placed No. 13 among manufacturing companies and No. 11 among Ohio companies.
Zebra mussel DNA fragments were detected in Utah's Colorado River for the first time, prompting the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources and partner agencies to urge boaters to prevent spread of aquatic invasive species. The U.S. Geological Survey analyzed water samples collected near the Potash Boat Ramp, with four of 22 samples testing positive for zebra mussel DNA.
A Rasmussen survey reveals declining gun control support among likely voters, with 79% of Democrats favoring stricter laws versus 29% of Republicans. The Citizens Committee for the Right to Keep and Bear Arms notes the timing coincides with upcoming Supreme Court cases on assault weapon bans brought by the Second Amendment Foundation.
Remington Ammunition has expanded its Subsonic Rifle ammunition lineup with three new offerings: 360 Buckhammer, 308 Win., and 45-70 Govt., now shipping to dealers nationwide. These precision-engineered loads are designed to run clean, quiet, and reliably below the speed of sound when paired with suppressors.
The Second Amendment Foundation (SAF), founded in 1974 by Alan M. Gottlieb, marks 52 years of legal action defending constitutional rights. SAF has participated in over 260 lawsuits and secured landmark victories including the McDonald v. City of Chicago Supreme Court decision, with two assault weapons ban cases currently awaiting Supreme Court oral arguments.
Parkwest Arms and Safari Classics Productions announced a partnership combining their expertise in African safari and dangerous game hunting. The collaboration between co-owner Steve Rabackoff and Safari Classics' Dave Fulson and Tim Danklef will focus on content, storytelling, and promotional initiatives celebrating craftsmanship and hunting traditions.
Jeff Foxworthy joins host Michael Waddell on The Michael Waddell Podcast to discuss his comedy career, hunting roots, and passion for whitetail deer hunting. The episode, presented by Spandau Arms in partnership with Folds of Honor and Cigars International, explores Foxworthy's journey from stand-up comedy to hosting hunting programs like Tecomate Whitetail Nation.
Hunt Monkey launches a complete warm-weather hunting gear line featuring lightweight gloves, performance socks, and face guards designed for comfort and protection during hot-weather hunts. The purpose-built system helps hunters manage humidity and heat while maintaining dexterity and concealment throughout early-season conditions.
TrueTimber and HEYDUDE have partnered to launch the Wally Funk shoe featuring TrueTimber's Shadowbark camo pattern. The collaboration combines HEYDUDE's comfortable, casual style with TrueTimber's realistic camouflage design, available at HEYDUDE.com and Bass Pro Shops.
EchoCore Suppressors' Sector 5.56 Compact earned fifth place in the Silencer Summit's consolidated 5.56 suppressor rankings. The compact suppressor, available through Silencer Shop, combines advanced DMLS additive manufacturing with proprietary XCR technology to deliver exceptional suppression in a 5-inch, 12.9-ounce package.
BERSA USA announced the launch of its B-Series suppressor line, comprising four models: B9, B22, B556, and B762. Built from premium materials including titanium and stainless steel, the suppressors are user-serviceable and backed by a Limited Lifetime Warranty, with MSRPs ranging from $500 to $900.
Bear & Son Cutlery, based in Jacksonville, Alabama, has introduced a new Carbon Steel 2-Blade Folding Knife featuring 1095 carbon steel blades and Genuine India Stag Bone handles. The Model C565 is priced at $119.99 and includes a leather sheath.
Hornady is expanding its A-Tip Match bullet lineup with two new offerings: a 6mm 120 gr. bullet with a ballistic coefficient of G1: .675, and a 30 Cal. 177 gr. bullet designed for PRS Tactical Division competition. Both bullets feature Hornady's precision-machined aluminum tip technology for enhanced stability and reduced drag.
Savage Arms announced four new Ultralite rifle models: 110 Ultralite Elite V2, 110 Ultralite Pro, 110 Ultralite Predator, and Impulse Ultralite Pro. These lightweight, high-performance rifles feature carbon fiber barrels, AccuFit V2 systems, and modular components designed for hunters and shooters across various applications.
Millennium Treestands introduces the L325 Wide Load Ladder Stand, an 18-foot hunting stand featuring heavy-duty oval steel construction, a ComfortMax seat, and a 300-pound weight capacity. The stand includes a Secure Tree Brace System, SafeLink Lifeline harness, and 24-inch-wide platform for enhanced comfort and safety.
Wildlife Research Center announces the 35th anniversary of Special Golden Estrus, its dated fresh super premium estrus scent with lab-tested estrogen levels. Available in three sizes with serial numbers and "Use By" dates, the product remains a trusted choice for serious hunters seeking premium deer hunting scents.
Garmin introduced the fēnix 9 and fēnix 9 Pro multisport GPS smartwatches featuring enhanced stamina metrics, the new Garmin Epic activity grouping feature, and improved navigation tools. The fēnix 9 Pro includes a titanium watch case, the largest AMOLED display on a fēnix, and inReach connectivity with satellite and LTE capabilities.
Auto-Ordnance unveiled the Thompson T1ABTG, a striking .45 ACP semi-automatic carbine featuring a matte black steel receiver with polished titanium gold accents. This custom 1927A-1 model includes premium American walnut furniture, a 16.5-inch finned barrel, and dual 20-round magazines, shipping now at $2,981 MSRP.
Hi Mountain Seasonings offers 25 Jerky Cure & Seasoning Kits and 14 Snackin' Stick Kits to help families prepare protein-packed homemade snacks for back-to-school season. Owner Hans Hummel highlights how making jerky and snack sticks at home provides nutritious, ingredient-controlled alternatives to processed snacks.
Garmin announced ArcheryX, a first-of-its-kind smartwatch activity for the fēnix 9 and fēnix 9 Pro that helps archers improve shooting accuracy and consistency with compound bows. The feature tracks bow arm movement and body biometrics, providing real-time data and detailed analysis through the ShotView mobile app.
MDT is introducing a limited Rattlecan ODG edition of the Oryx Bipod with matching accessories and expanding the LSS GEN3 Chassis System to include a Remington 700 long action CIP base in right-hand configuration. Both products will be available August 25, 2026, through MDT dealers and mdttac.com.
Beretta expands its APX A1 family with the APX A1 Ported, featuring a precision ported barrel and slide system, oversized controls, and a factory optics-ready slide available in FDE and OD Green. The pistol is designed for enhanced control and faster follow-up shots with an MSRP of $629.
Hook & Barrel Magazine's short film "Lights Out: Skate or Die" has been accepted into the 2026 Red Rock Film Festival in Southern Utah. The film features professional skateboarder Jason Ellis hunting in Utah while exploring themes of mental health and redemption, produced in partnership with Ghost Cat, ZEV Technologies, SilencerCo, Black Hills Ammunition, and Pulsar.
Nosler, Inc. celebrated the grand opening of its new flagship retail showroom in Redmond, Oregon. President and CEO John Nosler thanked the community for welcoming the company to their area as Nosler continues its nearly 70-year presence in Central Oregon.
EchoCore Suppressors will exhibit at the 2026 NTOA Law Enforcement Operations Conference & Trade Show in Nashville, Tennessee, August 30-September 4, alongside Silencer Shop. The company will showcase its premium suppressor lineup, including award-winning Sector 5.56 models, to support law enforcement professionals and tactical officers.
Wyoming Game and Fish Department held a press conference on August 24 to address leadership transitions. Interim Director Eric Wiltanger outlined priorities including habitat restoration, Mule Deer conservation, and public access, while Chief Game Warden Dan Smith and Craig Smith assumed new interim roles within the agency.
Giant marlin like this one may be 30 years old or more, so they have survived several decades of varying fishing pressure and attempts at fishery management. (Damon Sacco)
A 1,260-pound blue marlin landed off Massachusetts last week is the kind of fish that makes even experienced billfish chasers stop and stare.
Captain Damon Sacco and angler Walter Chapman caught the giant Aug. 19 while fishing Atlantis Canyon, about 100 miles off Cape Cod. The fish measured more than 11 feet and weighed 1,260 pounds—believed to be the largest blue marlin ever landed off the U.S. East Coast and only 142 pounds shy of the Atlantic world record. Its head is being sent to the University of Maine for research, with scientists estimating the fish could be 25 to 30 years old.
A blue marlin that size in New England is remarkable because the Northeast is normally too cold for the species except during its short summer appearance. Yet the catch also raises a larger question: Are blue marlin actually becoming more abundant along U.S. coasts, or are American anglers simply becoming much better at finding and catching the fish that are already there?
The answer appears to be some of both.
The latest International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas (ICCAT) assessment found Atlantic blue marlin still overfished, with estimated biomass at about 67 percent of the level associated with maximum sustainable yield at the end of 2022. At the same time, fishing mortality was “no longer judged to be excessive”, and the assessment showed signs of improving biomass. Conservation measures, including reduced allowable landings and restrictions on U.S. recreational harvest, appear to be helping the stock.
But that doesn't mean every increase in blue-marlin catches represents a corresponding increase in the population.
Recreational blue-marlin landings by U.S. rod-and-reel anglers totaled an estimated 23 metric tons in 2023, compared with 22 metric tons in 2022. Commercial U.S. vessels cannot retain or sell Atlantic billfish, but blue marlin continue to be caught incidentally by pelagic longliners targeting tuna and swordfish. Commercial longline bycatch remains the larger source of fishing mortality; recreational fishing has historically accounted for a much smaller portion.
The problem is that recreational catch rates have become increasingly difficult for scientists to interpret.
Blue marlin and other pelagics roam the world’s oceans, sometimes traveling thousands of miles seeking prime feeding or spawning locations. (Wiki Media)
Modern anglers have an extraordinary advantage over the fishermen who generated much of the historical catch data. GPS, satellite weather, sea-surface-temperature charts, current information, sophisticated autopilots and most of all increasingly powerful sonar have transformed offshore fishing from a largely exploratory exercise into something much closer to targeted hunting.
The newest generation of omnidirectional sonar is particularly important. Rather than simply showing bottom structure or fish beneath the boat, these systems can scan hundreds or thousands of feet around the vessel, allowing tournament crews to locate and target individual pelagic fish. A 2026 study of a North Carolina pelagic sportfishing tournament found that boats equipped with omnidirectional sonar had significantly greater catch efficiency than boats without it. An individual large fish can be tracked for miles until it is finally caught.
ICCAT recognized the problem in its 2024 blue-marlin assessment. Scientists concluded that changes in recreational vessel fishing power—including technological advances such as GPS and live sonar—made the U.S. recreational tournament data difficult to use as a straightforward index of abundance. The recreational tournament index was not incorporated into the assessment pending further work on accounting for increased catchability.
There’s another technological change that may be just as important: the boats themselves. Large outboard-powered catamarans have changed the practical geography of offshore fishing.
Catamarans are much faster than traditional inboard sportfishers and can also provide a relatively soft, stable ride in rough offshore conditions, allowing crews to maintain a higher average speed when conventional boats may have to throttle back. That can turn an offshore fishing ground that once required a major expedition into a practical day trip.
Consider fishing 100 miles offshore. A boat averaging 25 knots needs four hours to get there. A boat averaging 40 knots takes 2½ hours. The difference on the round trip is three hours—time that can instead be spent searching for fish.
Omni-directional long range sonar can track individual large fish at considerable distances, making them far easier to catch than previously. (Furuno Electronics)
More important, a fast, long-range boat can respond when the fish aren't where they were expected to be. If a current edge, temperature break or concentration of forage shifts 30 or 50 miles, the modern boat can go after it.
And satellite services like Roff’s or Hilton show anglers where the fish are most likely to be based on those conditions in real time.
Put faster boats together with long-range fuel capacity, high-speed catamaran hulls, modern electronics, satellite weather and sea conditions and omnidirectional sonar, and today's offshore fisherman can search vastly more water and find individual marlin much more efficiently than anglers could a generation ago.
That makes the apparent blue-marlin resurgence difficult to interpret.
The Atlantic stock may indeed be recovering because conservation has reduced fishing mortality. At the same time, warmer water and changing oceanographic conditions may be making suitable habitat available farther north, allowing more fish to reach U.S. waters. And the recreational fleet is becoming dramatically more effective at locating those fish.
That distinction matters to fisheries scientists because more fish caught per boat-day doesn’t necessarily mean more fish in the ocean if the boats have become much better at finding fish.
The blue-marlin fishery may be getting better. The population appears to be improving, although it remains below the desired level. But the fishermen are getting better, too—and dramatically so. How that all averages out remains to be seen.
