Wildlife Forever announced the 2026 Guy Harvey Shark Award winners, a special division of the Art of Conservation Fish Art Contest sponsored by the Guy Harvey Foundation. The award celebrates student artwork raising awareness about shark conservation, with winners receiving signed prints from marine artist Dr. Guy Harvey.
B.A.S.S. is accepting nominations for the 2026 Bassmaster High School All-American Fishing Team, now in its 12th year. The program recognizes 12 outstanding high school anglers based on tournament performance, leadership, and conservation efforts. Applications are open through September 16, with Glenn Cale, B.A.S.S. tournament manager, highlighting the anglers' commitment to academics and community service.
The Center for Sportfishing Policy submitted formal comments to the National Marine Fisheries Service urging NOAA to withdraw the 2008 Vessel Speed Rule and adopt modern, technology-driven approaches for North Atlantic right whale conservation, citing advancements in vessel navigation and whale detection technologies.
Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department reminds the public to avoid disturbing spawning sea lamprey in the Connecticut River and tributaries. Sea lamprey are native, beneficial species and Species of Greatest Conservation Need. The department works with the Connecticut River Migratory Fish Restoration Cooperative to improve fish passage, with over 17,000 lamprey passing Holyoke Dam in 2025.
The Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies applauds the Department of the Interior and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for proposing to open or expand over 1,450 hunting and fishing opportunities across the National Wildlife Refuge System and National Fish Hatchery System, increasing available hunting acres to over 92 million.
The Michigan DNR hosts a Free Family Fishing Derby on June 13 at Metamora-Hadley Recreation Area in Lapeer County, where participants of all ages can compete to catch the biggest fish in Lake Minnawanna. No fishing license required during this rain-or-shine event.
The fifth-annual Bassmaster High School Combine presented by Skeeter returns to Wheeler Lake in Decatur, Alabama, September 11-13, 2026. One hundred young anglers will compete in skills challenges and network with 25 college fishing programs offering scholarships. Registration opens June 8 at 9 a.m. CT for $750.
National Fishing and Boating Week runs June 6-14, celebrating 57 million anglers generating $230 billion in economic output. ASA launched the Million Pound Challenge to clean 1 million pounds of trash from waterways, while many states offer free fishing opportunities and workshops.
The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife reopens the Klamath Hatchery to the public on June 1 after five years of recovery and reconstruction following the September 2020 Two Four Two Fire. The new facility features a modern, resilient concrete structure supported by 131 steel piles and expanded rearing capacity for trout production in the basin.
Fish, Wildlife & Parks and Walleyes Unlimited of Montana encourage anglers to keep smaller walleye on Canyon Ferry Reservoir to reduce competition and allow larger fish to grow. Current regulations allow 10 fish daily with only 1 over 15 inches, supporting the management strategy to maintain a healthy, self-sustaining walleye population.
Nebraska Game and Parks Commission biologists captured a 70-pound lake sturgeon at Gavins Point Dam that had traveled 681 miles upstream from the Osage River, where it was originally tagged by the Missouri Department of Conservation in 2017. The threatened species is rarely encountered in Nebraska waters.
According to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources' 2025 Statewide Angler Survey Program, walleye is now the most harvested species in Michigan's Great Lakes waters. The recovery is driven by the disappearance of invasive alewives, which previously preyed on walleye fry. Saginaw Bay's walleye population now exceeds 14 million fish, generating over $60 million in economic activity annually.
Michigan Department of Natural Resources conservation officers issued citations to multiple anglers exceeding the six-fish daily walleye limit on the Detroit River during spring patrols. DNR fisheries biologist John Buszkiewicz and 1st Lt. Damon Owens emphasized enforcement efforts to protect the fishery and ensure sustainable fishing opportunities.
The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission returned 18 double-digit largemouth bass to Arkansas lakes in May, completing the inaugural year of the Arkansas Legacy Lunker Program. Fish donated by anglers were spawned with Titan Maxx Florida bass from Red Hills Fishery in Georgia to enhance trophy bass genetics, with 14 anglers attending releases at original capture locations.
TroutCast, a new interactive web-based tool developed by USGS, Montana State University, NOAA-NIDIS, and Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks, launched June 1, 2026, to forecast drought impacts on trout populations and support fisheries management across Montana's blue-ribbon rivers.
Weakfish populations along the North Carolina coast have declined over 98 percent since 1987, falling from 2.4 million recreational landings to roughly 222,000 pounds combined in 2024. Natural mortality, driven by increased predation from striped bass and bluefish alongside ecosystem changes, rather than overfishing, is the primary cause of the collapse.
A multi-year research project led by Sean P. Powers, Ph.D. at the University of South Alabama estimated greater amberjack abundance in the U.S. South Atlantic and Gulf of America. Funded by Congress with $5 million each to NOAA Fisheries and the National Sea Grant College Program, the $11.7 million project involved 20 scientists using underwater video, acoustic surveys, and tagging to assess the species and demonstrate emerging assessment technologies.
Author Noel Vick explores the Gulf red snapper fishery's remarkable conservation success, detailing how NOAA Fisheries and state-level management have transformed it into a thriving industry. The article provides practical guidance on using public databases from Texas Parks and Wildlife Department and Bureau of Ocean Energy Management to locate productive fishing spots.
Idaho Fish and Game's Free Fishing Day on June 13 offers free fishing and gear giveaways for anglers 14 and younger. Scheels and ICCU will distribute 1,300 free fishing poles and tackle boxes at select locations statewide while supplies last.
This article explores how jerkbaits remain effective summer fishing tools beyond cold-water seasons. Featured are DAIWA products including the TD MINNOW 95SP for finesse fishing on northern natural lakes, the DOUBLE CLUTCH 95SP for aggressive vegetation ripping, and the HMKL MINNOW STEEZ CUSTOM designed by Kazuma Izumi for offshore reservoir patterns and pelagic species.
Pete Robbins provides guidance on selecting the right fishing guide, emphasizing the importance of research, clear communication about goals, and verifying credentials. Key considerations include pricing, equipment quality, cancellation policies, and ensuring the guide has proper licenses and experience for your target species and fishing style.
Memphis Nelson, 14, of Grovespring caught a state-record river redhorse sucker weighing 10 pounds, 3 ounces on May 16 in the Osage Fork of the Gasconade River. The Missouri Department of Conservation verified the catch, which measured 28.5 inches long.
Yamaha Pro Chris Cenci, a 30-year Florida tournament redfish angler, details his boat's power system using four Norsk Lithium batteries across his 21' Egret skiff. After testing five battery brands over ten years, Cenci chose Norsk for its build quality, advanced features, and Guardian App monitoring capabilities.
The Arizona Game and Fish Department is offering $100,000 in Local Sportsmen's Group grants with a June 14, 2026 deadline. Funding supports organizations providing mentored hunting and fishing projects for recruitment and development of new hunters and anglers.
Carter Andrews, host of "The Obsession of Carter Andrews," was featured on episode #32 of the Fly Fisherman Loop to Loop podcast with Ross Purnell, Editor/Publisher of Fly Fisherman Magazine. Andrews discussed his fishing career, conservation concerns, and his upcoming hour-long series "Gone Fishing with Carter Andrews" premiering July 6 on Outdoor Channel.
Yamaha Marine features Alaska Surf Guides and Captain Scott Reierson in a new Yamaha Blue Life storytelling piece showcasing remote surfing expeditions along Alaska's rugged coastline. The cinematic feature highlights how Yamaha outboards power the tender boats used to access remote surf breaks in one of the world's most demanding marine environments.
Z-Man® partners with ChatterBait® inventor Ronny Davis to launch the ChatterTail™, a modern inline spinner featuring a vibrating blade that delivers aggressive thump and erratic action. Available this fall in multiple sizes and color patterns, the lure combines classic design with innovative performance for all species and skill levels.
Okuma Fishing Tackle announces the all-new Eminent Baitcast Reel, a low-profile bass reel featuring an audible drag click system, C-40X frame, and carbon fiber components. Available in four models with left- and right-hand retrieve options at $109.99 MSRP, launching June 2026.
Rapala launches CrushCity™ soft plastics, developed in collaboration with elite tournament angler Jacob Wheeler, featuring The Mayor™ swimbait, Mooch Minnow™, and Freeloader™, with VMC premium terminal tackle integration for optimal performance across bass and walleye fishing.
Missile Baits has announced the Buzz Wagon, a premium full-size buzzbait manufactured in the USA by Brazalo Lures. Designed by pro angler and Missile Baits owner John Crews, the bait features a Gamakatsu 3/0 Flip/Punch Hook, anodized aluminum blade, and distinctive blade-to-sleeve sound for maximum fish attraction.
DAIWA announced the PRESSO Freeboard Case, a modular hard-shell tackle storage solution designed for technical anglers using micro-spoons, jigs, and BFS hardbaits. The case features customizable foam inserts, indexed compartmentalization, and a slim 1-inch profile, available in two sizes starting at $18.99.
Skeeter introduced the new FXE bass boat model line featuring advanced hull design, Yamaha V MAX SHO 250-horsepower outboards, and precision manufacturing technology. The models deliver improved performance, handling, and control, with availability through authorized Skeeter dealerships in late June 2026.
Berkley is expanding its PowerBait MaxScent Magnum Hit Worm lineup with seven new fish-catching colors designed for finesse fishing techniques targeting pressured bass. The 7-inch worms feature a thick body and bulbous tail paired with MaxScent technology and are available for $9.99 per pack starting June 2026.
The Michigan Department of Natural Resources announces 'Three Free' Weekend on June 13-14, offering free fishing, ORV riding on 4,000 miles of trails, and entry to 103 state parks and 1,000-plus boating access sites. DNR Director Scott Bowen encourages newcomers and experienced outdoor enthusiasts to participate while following safety and conservation guidelines.
MyOutdoorTV, the No. 1 global subscription streaming platform from Outdoor Sportsman Group, launched AdventureStream, a 24/7 ad-free live-streaming channel featuring hit shows like Dropped, MeatEater's Cal In The Field, Jim Shockey's Uncharted, and more. Sr. Vice President Sean Luxton emphasized the platform's commitment to providing best-in-class outdoor content across multiple devices.
John Simms, pioneering fly-fishing innovator and founder of Simms Fishing Products, passed away on June 3, 2026, at age 89. Known for inventing neoprene waders, Croakies eyewear retainers, and the WristLok casting aid, Simms revolutionized fishing apparel and equipment before selling his company to Life Link International in the late 1980s.
Hi Mountain Seasonings, based in Riverton, Wyoming, offers seasoning blends, brines, marinades, and rubs to help anglers prepare fresh-caught fish. Owner Hans Hummel highlights the company's 35-year commitment to enhancing natural fish flavors for June fishing season opportunities across North America.
Fish Monkey expands its popular Americana collection by adding the bold red, white and blue pattern to its U.S.-made merino wool blend performance socks. The pattern, already successful in glove styles and face guards, offers retailers strong shelf appeal and merchandising opportunities for coordinated multi-item purchases.
Johnny Morris and Bass Pro Shops are donating over 55,000 rods and reels to youth-focused nonprofit organizations across North America through the Gone Fishing program. The initiative, which has distributed more than 500,000 rods and reels over the past decade, includes free family fishing events and the Johnny Morris Bass Pro Shops Kids' Braggin' Board photo contest.
GAME & FISH TV, powered by Outdoor Sportsman Group, launches "The Wild Life" Monday block featuring Andrew Zimmern's Wild Game Kitchen, WildFed with Daniel Vitalis, and Hardcore Carnivore with Jess Pryles, offering field-to-table cooking and wild game preparation content.
World Fishing Network launches "Reel Replay Saturdays" starting at 6 p.m. ET, featuring Major League Fishing's MLF Team Series, Ott DeFoe's The Hunt for Monster Bass, Mark Zona's Zona's Awesome Fishing Show, and Ultimate Match Fishing with top professional anglers competing in head-to-head bass tournaments.
Outdoor Sportsman Group's GAME & FISH TV achieved over 50 million minutes watched in April with 430 million monthly active users. The fastest-growing free, ad-supported streaming channel features live Major League Fishing events, hunting, fishing, adventure content, and wild game cooking across multiple platforms including Roku, Prime Video, and Samsung TV Plus.
Waypoint TV celebrates Great Outdoors Month throughout June with free fishing, hunting, adventure, and lifestyle programming across multiple streaming platforms. Co-Founder & CEO Builder Brock highlights the network's mission to inspire Americans to explore the outdoors through authentic storytelling and curated nightly primetime lineups.
The University of Montevallo secured its 6th consecutive Bass Pro Shops School of the Year title presented by Abu Garcia, earning 40,285 points. Carson-Newman University finished 2nd with its highest-ever finish, while the University of North Alabama placed 3rd. The 2025-26 season featured 129 teams competing across 55 points-earning events.
Pro registration closes Friday for the 2026 Bass Pro Shops and Cabela's National Walleye Tour presented by Progressive at Bay De Noc, Michigan on June 18–19. Top anglers will compete for season points and critical standings in the Progressive Team of the Year race.
National Boating and Fishing Week encourages families across the nation to enjoy our lakes, streams and coastal waters—but to do so in safety. (Tracker Marine)
Boating safety advice sometimes sounds like it was drafted by a mustached codger with a clipboard and a deep disappointment in humanity.
That’s why hardy anybody reads it.
The message is usually correct, but the tone suggests that any adult who doesn’t already know these things probably wandered into boating by mistake. For newcomers, that voice would intimidate, if they read past the first paragraph, but you have to think most don’t.
In fact, they don’t get past the title, because they’d a lot rather scroll down and see what Sydney Sweeney has been up to of late or who the Bucs are most likely to draft at OLB.
Consider float plans, for example—although almost none of us do.
They sound formal, even dramatic, as though filing one somehow invites trouble. In reality, they’re about maintaining the gap between a small problem and a disaster. Boats break in inconvenient ways. Batteries die. Fuel systems clog. Props find floating debris. None of these events are rare or heroic, but they become more serious when nobody knows where you went or when you planned to return.
Leaving a float plan doesn’t require a customs declaration—it’s as simple as a text message—“Headed for Tarpon Bay, back by 6-ish” is all it takes. (Of course, if you suddenly decide to run 30 miles offshore and try a grouper reef instead of going to Tarpon Bay—and you’re out of reach of a cell tower and you break down--you’ve got a problem.)
Docking rarely gets framed as a safety issue, but many injuries happen within ten feet of a pier. New boaters don’t yet understand how much momentum even a slow-moving boat carries. Instinct tells people to fend off with hands or feet, not a good plan, nor is jumping off a moving boat onto a dock. That lesson usually arrives with a bruise or squashed fingers, sometimes a lot worse. It doesn’t have to, but only if someone explains that boats are guided into docks, not wrestled into submission. On my boat, I simply ask everybody to sit still and enjoy the moment until the boat is safely secured in the berth—though on larger boats, particularly those with flybridge or interior helm, some experienced help can be a must.
Pontoon boats are spacious, stable and have room for the whole family, but they require care in operation, as with any watercraft. (Yamaha)
Alcohol I like a lot less on the water than I used to, definitely not for me and mostly not for my guests. Long days on the water are physically demanding in subtle ways. Sun, heat, dehydration, glare, and motion all drain attention and judgment. By the time a drink is added to the mix, the margin for error may already be thin. That reality has nothing to do with the manly virtue of holding your liquor and everything to do with physiology. You’ll make mistakes that you wouldn’t otherwise make if you drink and drive a boat, just as you would on the highway, and the penalties are very similar if you get caught. Admittedly it’s not a lot of fun to be the sober guy at the wheel when everybody else is brew-happy, but it’s both the law and the only rational way to go to make sure you arrive back safely at the docks.
And of course, if you’re driving and you’re over that .08 line, you’ve got a big problem should the Marine Patrol happen to check you out.
“Watch the weather” is more common wisdom, but sometimes new boaters don’t understand that seemingly very pleasant weather can be dangerous—a stiff breeze on a sunny day, especially one that happens to be blowing in the opposite direction of an inlet tide, can mean very dangerous water, even for a larger boat.
Larger inboard boats add an element of safety with higher freeboard and designs aimed at dealing with rough water, but even they have to be operated with care when conditions become challenging. (Monterey)
And calm water next to a lee shore doesn’t stay that way if you get a mile from the lee—kayakers and canoeists are particularly prone to getting into this sort of trouble. Sometimes the wind out there is so strong than inexpert paddlers can’t overcome it to get back to safety, and sometimes it simply flips them over—Michigan DNR just this week rescued two kayakers who got into this situation on Lake Huron. Water temperature was a balmy 43 degrees—the couple were very lucky to have survived.
Boating will always involve risk, and it makes sense for beginners to learn to avoid them through boating safety advice provided by states and organizations like BoatUS. But safety guidance works best when it sounds less like a scolding memo and more like advice shared quietly at the dock by someone who learned the hard way and doesn’t see any reason you should have to.
Those of us who have made all the mistakes already can most likely help those who have yet to experience them with a more collegial tone and memories of our own sometimes painful SNAFU’s and “learning experiences” afloat during this National Boating and Fishing Week, continuing through Sunday—and for all the other weeks we enjoy our lakes, streams and coastal waters.
