Blocker Outdoors introduces the Finisher Leafy Pullover Jacket, featuring 3D camouflage technology designed specifically for turkey hunting. The jacket uses leafy foliage patterning in Mossy Oak Greenleaf to break up the human silhouette and blend hunters into natural surroundings, with features including a half-zip design, gear pouch, and hand pockets.

The Outdoor Stewards of Conservation Foundation (OSCF) is conducting an "ATF Auction for Conservation" on GunBroker ending February 22, 2026, featuring items valued over $1,500 including a CZ 557 Bolt Action Rifle. Proceeds support OSCF's mission to engage hunters, anglers, trappers and shooters in wildlife conservation while improving public perception of gun ownership.

Zanders, an all-women-owned distributor based in Sparta, Illinois, received OpticsPlanet's Distributor of the Year award for 2025. The recognition honors Zanders' commitment to outstanding service, reliable fulfillment, and industry-leading product availability across firearms, ammunition, optics, and outdoor gear.

Cole Fine Guns and Gunsmithing, based in Naples, Florida, has been named the #1 Beretta Premium Dealer Worldwide for the seventh time since 2018. Owner Rich Cole's gunsmithing expertise stems from his 1979 apprenticeship with Beretta, and the company now operates locations in Maine, Florida, and Texas.

Krieghoff International sponsored the Jack Link's Cup at Quail Creek Sporting Ranch in Okeechobee, Florida, welcoming 1,672 shooters from all 50 states and 15 countries competing for $350,000 in prize money. Team Krieghoff shooters Brandon Powell, Shelby Moon, Mike Wilgus, Kiersten Sales, and Jacob Judson earned podium placements, while Brad Mayberry won a Krieghoff K-80 Parcours-X raffle prize valued at over $22,000.

The Montana Land Board approved four Habitat Conservation Leases protecting over 27,000 acres of rangeland in eastern Montana. The leases, including the Dunbar HCL, IOU Ranch HCL, Lone Tree Land & Livestock Ranch HCL, and Rock Barn Ranch HCL, provide public access for recreation and hunting while supporting wildlife habitat conservation.

Patoka Lake is hosting a women-only outdoor skills event May 15–17 for ages 16 and older. Activities include archery, kayaking, Dutch oven cooking, wilderness survival, hunting 101, trap shooting, and more. Registration costs $85 and closes April 15.

The Gulf Council is accepting applications for its Red Drum Advisory Panel and Coastal Migratory Pelagic Advisory Panel. Advisory Panel members serve three-year terms and provide formal recommendations to decision makers. Applications must be received by March 3, 2026, at noon.

Ducks Unlimited received a $1.2 million grant from New York's Water Quality Improvement Project program to restore 805 acres of wetland habitat over three years. In partnership with the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the project will enhance the Montezuma Wetland Complex and Tonawanda Wildlife Management Area near Iroquois National Wildlife Refuge.

The Wyoming Hunger Initiative, led by First Lady Jennie Gordon, is holding its annual raffle for a Wyoming Game and Fish Commissioner License, with proceeds supporting the Food From the Field initiative. Tickets are available through February 19, with the winner announced February 20, offering a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to purchase a Wyoming deer, antelope, or elk tag.

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks offers free in-person hunter and bowhunter education classroom courses and field days across north-central Montana this spring. Students aged 12-17 can take online courses but must pass an in-person field day for certification. Anyone born after January 1, 1985, must complete a hunter education course to purchase a Montana hunting license.

NSSF praises VA Secretary Doug Collins for eliminating a three-decade-old policy reporting veterans requiring financial fiduciaries to the FBI's NICS system. NSSF Senior Vice President Lawrence G. Keane commended the action, and the organization continues supporting the Veterans 2nd Amendment Protection Act introduced by Representatives Mike Bost and Morgan Luttrell and Senators John Kennedy and Jerry Moran.

Kinetic Development Group announced The Evans Group as its manufacturer representative to accelerate sales and marketing growth in 2026. The Evans Group brings decades of firearms and outdoor industry experience with an established national sales network to strengthen KDG's position with dealers and distributors.

Walther Arms, INC. announced David Farrell's appointment as Chief Revenue Officer effective January 12, 2026. Farrell brings extensive sales management experience from Maxim Defense, Christensen Arms, and Sig Sauer, and will oversee sales, marketing, and product strategies to drive growth in commercial and professional markets.

SDS Arms has ended its exclusive agreement with TİSAŞ Trabzon Silah Sanayi and will no longer import, distribute, or service Tisas firearms. Warranty support is now handled by new U.S. importer Tisas Arms Corp. SDS Arms continues offering firearms under brands MAC, Inglis, Tokarev USA, and Spandau Arms.

The Wyoming Game and Fish Department will permanently close Jessica's Pond in the Casper Region this month following confirmation of invasive New Zealand mudsnails. The pond will be filled in to prevent species spread near the Dan Speas Fish Hatchery. Chief of Fisheries Alan Osterland cited the rapid spread rate as the reason for closure, with Yesness Pond offered as an alternative.

Krieghoff International is seeking an experienced Accessories & Merchandise Manager for its Ottsville, Pennsylvania headquarters. The role oversees branded merchandise and accessory programs, including product development, sourcing, and online store management, supporting the company's competitive shooting and hunting communities.

Vortex® introduces the Triumph® HD 10x28 and 12x50 binoculars, expanding its popular binocular line. The new models feature HD optical systems, fully multi-coated lenses, and the Vortex® VIP® Warranty, with pricing from $89.99 to $119.99 MAP.

ZeroTech Optics announced the launch of the Thrive 1-10x24 SFP Illuminated LPVO series, featuring true 1x magnification for rapid target acquisition and 10x magnification for mid-range engagement. Available in three illuminated reticle configurations—RAR, PHR4, and G4—the optic is designed for competition, tactical, and hunting applications.

The Council to Advance Hunting and the Shooting Sports (Council) is offering $5,000 student scholarship sponsorships to support emerging Recruitment, Retention, and Reactivation (R3) research and leadership professionals attending the National R3 Symposium. Sponsors receive logo recognition and direct engagement with scholars while helping build the future workforce for hunting, shooting sports, and conservation.

The Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation acquired RMEF OutdoorClass, an online learning platform featuring video courses by experts John Barklow, Corey Jacobsen, Randy Newberg, and Remi Warren. The platform offers hunting instruction on elk, mule deer, white-tailed deer, and pronghorn, with upcoming classes from Jason Matzinger, Nate Hosie, and Kristy Titus.

The International Hunter Education Association-USA (IHEA-USA) announced that Do All Outdoors has joined its official member discount program, providing exclusive pricing on outdoor equipment including shooting targets, bullet traps, and steel targets for IHEA-USA members and instructors.

Browning Trail Cameras introduces the Spec Ops Elite HP5 Ultra, an advanced SD-card trail camera featuring exceptional daytime and nighttime performance with no-glow infrared flash, HD video, and a 2-inch full-color viewing screen for field verification and setup.

Henry Repeating Arms has begun shipping its new Explorer Carbine series, featuring a distinctive Burnt Bronze Cerakote finish inspired by American Southwest landscapes. Available in multiple calibers including .30-30 Winchester, .360 Buckhammer, .45-70 Gov't, .357 Magnum, and .44 Magnum, the carbines offer threaded barrels, adjustable sights, and American walnut furniture at an MSRP of $1,430.

BANISH Suppressors, founded by Brandon Maddox, introduces the BANISH VRMT 223 Ti, a lightweight titanium suppressor designed for .224-caliber cartridges and smaller. The HUB-compatible suppressor achieves over 35 decibels of sound reduction and weighs 9.7 ounces, making it ideal for varmint hunting, predator control, and target shooting.

HUXWRX Safety Co. and Strider Knives announced a limited release of 50 serialized Black Magic suppressor and Strider SMF knife configurations, featuring matching serial numbers and engineered for elite military operational requirements. Each unit combines HUXWRX's patented Flow-Through technology with Strider's established SMF knife design, finished in HUXWRX's proprietary PRISM² coating.

Real Avid launches the Smart-Torq & X3 Driver System, featuring precision torque application tools for firearm installation and maintenance. The company is shipping five purpose-built kits, including adjustable and fixed limiter configurations with MSRPs ranging from $39.99 to $164.99.

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks issued a decision notice to remove and rebuild the firing line shelter at Whittecar Rifle & Pistol Range. The project received 17 public comments in support during the comment period. FWP also approved an updated lease agreement with the Club to improve communication and management efficiency.

Liberty Ammunition will exhibit at Enforce Tac in Nuremberg, Germany on February 23-25, showcasing its Pro Series ammunition and new developments to military and law enforcement allies. CEO Gary Ramey stated the company is excited to review the latest ammunition innovation at the event.

Patriot Ordnance Factory Inc. (POF-USA) will exhibit at IWA OutdoorClassics 2026 in Nuremberg, Germany from February 26-March 1, showcasing its AR-type rifles and accessories. Vice President of Sales and Marketing Corey Soriano highlighted the event as an opportunity to connect with global partners and customers while expanding POF-USA's international presence.

Capstone Precision Group, manufacturer of Berger Bullets and distributor of Lapua, Vihtavuori, and SK, will exhibit at the 2026 Sports Inc Outdoor Show in Phoenix, February 18-20. The company will showcase new products including Berger 22 caliber 69 Grain OTM bullets, 7mm PRC hunting ammunition, and Lapua TRX hunting ammunition at Booth #1125.

Avian-X and Hunters Specialties drew strong crowds at the National Wild Turkey Federation Convention and Sport Show in Nashville, showcasing new 2026 product lineups including Avian-X Ridge Runner turkey vests and Muddy DV8 hunting apparel. Industry legends Mark Drury, Paul Butski, Fred Zink, and Hannah Barron participated in meet-and-greets at the GSM Outdoors brand family booth.

European American Armory Corp. will exhibit at Kinsey's Dealer Show 2026 (February 19-21, Lancaster, PA) showcasing new 1911 double stack models, long-guns from Balikli Firearms, and California-compliant pistols with exclusive dealer pricing and margins.

Safari Club International opened its 54th Annual Hunters' Convention in Nashville, Tennessee, featuring remarks from Governor Bill Lee and U.S. Representative David Kustoff. The event brings together hunters and conservationists with over 900 exhibitors, conservation auctions, and policy briefings focused on wildlife management and protecting hunting traditions.

Outdoor Life, in partnership with TrueTimber, Bass Pro Shops, and Winchester Ammunition, released a feature documenting Rob Keck's historic completion of the first Canadian Wild Turkey Super Slam across five provinces. Keck, former National Wild Turkey Federation CEO, harvested wild turkeys in Ontario, Alberta, British Columbia, Quebec, and New Brunswick as a nonresident, celebrating conservation success in Canada.

Bowtech has renewed its partnership with Total Archery Challenge (TAC) for the 2026 series, continuing to host the Bowtech Mountain Festival. The Eugene, Oregon-based archery brand will showcase its expanded product line, including the recently acquired Black Gold Premium Accessories family, across 13 events spanning March through August.

Walker's, a leader in hearing protection and enhancement, has renewed its partnership as a national sponsor of Whitetails Unlimited. The company, headquartered in Irving, Texas and part of GSM Outdoors, produces innovative hearing protection solutions for shooting and hunting applications.

The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission and Electric Cooperatives of Arkansas announced a three-year partnership to enhance outdoor recreation safety. The program includes Hunter Education, Boater Education, and ATV Safety Education, with high school seniors earning an Arkansas Outdoor Safety Graduation Cord for completing all certifications.

The Indiana Department of Natural Resources will exhibit at the 71st Annual Ford Indianapolis Boat, Sport and Travel Show February 20-22 and 25-March 1 at the Indiana State Fairgrounds. DNR staff will offer licenses, permits, guides, and educational programs including snake exhibits, live birds of prey from Hardy Lake's Dwight Chamberlain Raptor Center, and Conservation Officers K-9 demonstrations.

Wildlife artist Tim Taylor's wood duck painting won the Ohio Wetlands Habitat Stamp design competition at the Ohio Ducks Unlimited annual convention. The Ohio Department of Natural Resources selected Taylor's work from 23 entries representing 11 states. The stamp program has raised over $11 million for wetland conservation since 1982.

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks is seeking public comment on a checklist environmental assessment for Shady Lane Fishing Access Site improvements near Kalispell, including dredging, pier replacement, and facility upgrades. Comments are due by February 27.

The Schramm Education Center south of Gretna offers March programming including Little Saplings on groundhogs, Spring Break Day focused on beavers, and Homeschool Hikes exploring woodpeckers. Admission ranges from free to $10 for adults.

Major League Fishing's Bass Pro Tour O'Reilly Auto Parts Stage 2 streams live on MyOutdoorTV from Lake Hartwell with 51 pro anglers competing for a $125,000 top prize and $600,000 total purse. The four-day event, hosted by Visit Oconee SC, features a two-day Qualifying Round, Knockout Round, and Championship Round format.

The Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department is urging Mighty Earth and mountain lion advocates to slow their reintroduction campaign, citing insufficient research on habitat impacts, public safety, and regional coordination needed before responsibly proceeding with bringing mountain lions back to Vermont.

Pittman-Robertson dollars fund leading-edge wildlife research

Interested people are interesting.  It’s cliché, but true: enthusiasm is infectious. Spend time talking to wildlife and fisheries professionals and you will find that their occupation is not just a job.

So it is with Deanna Pfeffer, a wildlife biologist with the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, whose enthusiasm for conservation is readily apparent. She is stationed at Kerr Wildlife Management Area in southwest Texas, some 150 miles west of the capital city of Austin.  The WMA is in the fabled Hill Country, rich in natural beauty, and wildlife that occupies mixed-oak savanna—expansive grasslands with thin canopies of trees and shrubs.

Pfeffer led the research on the use of thermal imaging video cameras mounted on unmanned aerial vehicles, commonly called drones, to census white-tailed deer. The intent was to discover the usefulness of drones and heat-sensing cameras in counting whitetails and potentially other wildlife species in Texas and beyond.

A census is a complete enumeration. Pfeffer had the ability to census a known population white-tailed deer on the 6,500-acre WMA. Pfeffer and colleagues parsed off and fenced 288 acres of woodlands and oak-meadow openings with a known number of deer.

The leading-edge conservation work was an intersection science, technology, know-how, and reliable Pittman-Robertson funding—the federal excise taxes paid by the manufacturers of firearms, ammunition, and archery gear. The funding pays Pfeffer and her colleague’s salaries and for the high-tech gear used in the research, not to mention the daily management activities conducted on the WMA for a whole host of wild mammals and birds.

Pfeffer’s deer research using drones built off other Pittman-Robertson-funded drone work on waterfowl and whitetails by wildlife biologists with the Wisconsin and Minnesota departments of natural resources.  

Pfeffer designed the drone flights to cover the entire 288 acres. Flights and video recording occurred once near dawn and again near dusk over three days in December, gathering hours of video.  The results show great promise and utility in wildlife management. Three independent observers reviewed video and counted deer seen as a black objects on the screen. That is, warm deer were revealed as dark objects. In the end, the observers slightly undercounted the true, known number of white-tailed deer. But that was no great detriment.

“We’re happy with the outcome,” said Pfeffer.  “The study returned really good results. We’ll take what we learned and expand into other seasons and times of day and are considering using artificial intelligence to potentially better locate the heat signature of deer on video, and perhaps with greater resolution to identify ages and sexes.”

White-tailed deer is a primary species managed on the WMA, along with Rio Grande turkey, bobwhite quail, and rare golden-cheeked warbler, a handsome yellow and black and white songbird with an affinity for the Hill Country.

“Pittman-Robertson funds are absolutely imperative not only for our research, but everyday management,” said Pfeffer. “We adhere to Aldo Leopold’s maxim of the tools of wildlife management, axe, cow, plow, fire, and gun.” Pfeffer and colleagues use prescribed burns, grazing allotments, and regulated hunts to sustain the public benefit of acquiring local free range food on the public land, not to mention the sheer joy of watching wildlife in wild places.

Pfeffer and her TPWD colleagues Justin Foster and John Kinsey published the findings of the thermal imaging research in the Journal of Fish and Wildlife Management where other professionals can learn about, replicate, and expand upon their endeavors.

“Drones have the potential to give big game managers an effective and relatively inexpensive tool to monitor and manage wildlife,” said Pfeffer.  “Drones can go where people can’t; it’s safer and far less expensive than fixed-wing aircraft.”

The State of Texas purchased the land that became Kerr WMA in 1950 with Pittman-Robertson funds.

— Craig Springer, for the USFWS - Office of Conservation Investment