A new bipartisan bill introduced in Congress could deliver billions of dollars for public land access, road repairs, trail improvements, and hunting infrastructure across the country.
Idaho hunters will soon have more options when plans change. Beginning July 1, 2026, new laws will make it easier to exchange certain hunting tags while also introducing major changes to lifetime license eligibility. Idaho Fish and Game is encouraging hunters to review the updates before fall hunting seasons begin.
A Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks advisory committee spent two days discussing one of the most controversial public-access issues in the West: corner crossing. While no immediate policy changes emerged from the June 1–2 meeting, the debate over access to nearly 871,000 acres of corner-locked public land in Montana is far from over.
New and aspiring deer hunters have until July 1 to apply for a mentored hunting experience at one of Wisconsin’s premier wildlife properties.
A controversial proposal that could eventually lead to the return of grizzly bears to California has cleared the state Senate. While supporters describe the measure as a scientific assessment process, opponents—including ranching groups, rural lawmakers, and many hunters—see it as the first major step toward bringing grizzlies back to the Golden State.
Citizen Tip Leads Wardens to Illegal Harvest of a 182-Inch Whitetail Before Montana’s Archery Season Opened
California hunters can now access newly adopted 2026–2027 seasons and regulations for waterfowl, upland birds, small mammals and furbearers in the Hunterizer app. The update follows earlier additions of 2026–2027 big game seasons and introduces new features including species-specific zone maps and after-harvest requirement guidance.
An 11-month investigation into the alleged illegal killing of at least 13 white-tailed bucks has resulted in 74 criminal charges against a New Braunfels man. While the alleged poaching occurred during 2024 and 2025, the case became public in May 2026 when Texas Game Wardens announced the completion of their investigation and the filing of charges.
Pennsylvania Hunters Can Now Access Seasons and Regulations for Ducks, Geese, Migratory Birds, and Furbearers in the Hunterizer App
Wisconsin hunters have just days left to apply for one of the state’s most coveted hunting opportunities. As the May 31 elk application deadline nears, new data shows Wisconsin’s elk population has reached a record high, leading to the largest elk harvest quota in state history for the 2026 season.
Spring surveys in eastern Montana delivered encouraging news for mule deer hunters, with strong increases reported in both the northeast and southeast. While some regions are seeing improving numbers after several favorable winters, mule deer populations remain below long-term averages in parts of the state and recovery continues to vary by region.
Idaho hunters have only a few days left to apply for many of the state’s most sought-after controlled hunts. Applications for fall 2026 controlled hunts close June 5, covering species including elk, deer, pronghorn, black bear, turkey and swan.
Federal proposal could expand hunting and fishing opportunities across more than 92 million acres nationwide, including refuges in every state currently supported by the Hunterizer app.
A newly introduced bill in Lansing could set the stage for a Michigan wolf hunting and trapping season—but only if gray wolves are removed from the federal endangered species list first. For Michigan hunters, it’s the clearest legislative push yet toward restoring state wolf management authority.
Texas hunters and trappers could soon face a new reporting requirement for every mountain lion harvested in the state. The proposal would not create a season, bag limit, or new restrictions on pursuing lions—but it would add mandatory reporting and biological sample submission for the first time.
After a rare return in 2025, Wisconsin’s sharp-tailed grouse hunt appears likely headed back to the sidelines in 2026. The state’s fragile sharptail recovery remains a conservation balancing act, with hunting only possible when bird numbers can support it.
California hunters are running out of time to get into one of the state’s biggest annual draws. The deadline to submit applications for California’s 2026 Big Game Drawing is 11:59:59 p.m. on June 2, covering opportunities for deer, elk, pronghorn antelope and desert bighorn sheep. At the same time, hunters can start purchasing their 2026–2027 California hunting licenses, validations, bear tags, and other access passes for the upcoming season.
Michigan hunters and trappers have a major new update to work with: the Michigan DNR has released its 2026–2027 waterfowl and fur harvester regulations, and Hunterizer has already updated the app with the latest seasons, regulations, zone maps, and compliance details. With big game seasons already live and more species updates on the way, Michigan hunters can now plan much of their season from one place.
The U.S. Senate has confirmed Steve Pearce as the new Director of the Bureau of Land Management, putting a longtime advocate of energy development and “multiple-use” public land policy in charge of one of the largest land management agencies in the country. For hunters, the appointment could bring meaningful changes to access, habitat management, and the future of public land policy across the West.
A spring black bear hunt in eastern Idaho turned into a life-or-death encounter when a grizzly charged a hunter and his young son near Ashton. Idaho Fish and Game ruled the shooting a lawful defense-of-life incident—another reminder that some of Idaho’s best bear country is also grizzly country.
Michigan deer hunters are looking at some of the biggest regulation changes in years. State regulators have approved a new one-buck limit for the Lower Peninsula beginning in 2027, while the long-standing firearm zone boundary—better known as the “rifle line”—is going away for the 2026 season.
A multi-state poaching investigation that began with an illegal road-hunting stop in East Tennessee has ended with convictions, steep fines, and hunting privilege suspensions. Wildlife officers say the case is a reminder that poaching doesn’t just break the law—it steals opportunity from ethical hunters.
Montana hunters are now watching one of the most consequential public land access battles in recent years. After Montana officials publicly reaffirmed that corner crossing is illegal, two major access advocacy groups responded with a lawsuit seeking to overturn that position and secure access to hundreds of thousands of acres of public land currently considered corner-locked.
Montana hunters who applied for once-in-a-lifetime species can now see whether they drew a coveted 2026 tag. With moose, bighorn sheep, mountain goat and bison results posted, attention now shifts to the next major deadlines for elk B, deer B, antelope, mountain lion and other opportunities across the state.
Texas hunters don’t have to wait for the full regulation booklet in August to start planning fall. With Texas Parks and Wildlife Department officially publishing 2026–2027 hunting season dates, Hunterizer has already updated Texas in the app—adding the new seasons, regulation changes, and a major new feature: species-specific zone maps.
A missing hiker was found dead near Glacier National Park after authorities launched a backcountry search operation. Investigators say injuries and evidence at the scene point to a likely bear attack, underscoring the risks hunters and outdoorsmen face during Montana’s spring bear activity period.
The Trump administration is moving quickly to remove or scale back hunting and trapping restrictions across dozens of federal land units where hunting is already allowed. The policy shift could affect hunters in several states supported by Hunterizer, including California, Texas, Montana, Idaho, Michigan, and others, while also raising debate over public safety, habitat protection, and the role of federal land managers.
A Texas man was sentenced this week in federal court after investigators connected him to a large illegal eagle trafficking operation centered on Montana’s Flathead Indian Reservation. Federal authorities say the broader case involved thousands of illegally killed birds, including bald and golden eagles sold on the black market.
Michigan hunters can now apply for elk and bear licenses, with the application period opening May 1 and running through June 1. At the same time, Hunterizer has rolled out updated 2026 season dates and regulations for both species in its app.
Hunterizer has added Idaho and Tennessee to its Seasons App, marking a major milestone as the platform now supports 10 states. Hunters in both states can instantly see what’s in season anywhere, any day—along with detailed regulations built for real-world use.
Idaho hunters preparing for the 2026 season should be aware of a significant new law restricting the use of certain technologies commonly used for sco…
Montana hunters still have time to apply for several of the state’s most sought-after big game licenses, but the first major deadline is fast approaching. Applications for moose, bighorn sheep, mountain goat and bison are due May 1, followed by elk B, deer B and antelope applications due June 1. Here’s what hunters need to know about where to apply and how the process works.
The Michigan Department of Natural Resources has announced the three lucky winners of the 2026 Pure Michigan Hunt drawing. Each winner receives a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to hunt multiple big game species across Michigan during the 2026 seasons.
Hunterizer has officially released Idaho hunting seasons, adding one of the West’s premier big-game states to its growing lineup. Idaho hunters—and traveling hunters planning western adventures—can now instantly see what’s open to hunt anywhere in the state, on any day of the year.
A Tennessee man has permanently lost hunting and fishing privileges following multiple poaching cases across western Montana. The convictions stem from several illegal kills, license violations, and trespassing incidents that occurred over multiple seasons.
California’s latest 2026 wolf depredation investigations report confirms continued livestock losses and expanding wolf territory across Northern and Sierra Nevada regions. Year-over-year increases in depredation incidents and wolf population estimates highlight growing overlap with major California deer hunting zones.
A major court filing in April could accelerate the legal battle over California’s 11% excise tax on firearms, ammunition, and parts. While the tax remains in effect, gun owners, hunters, and retailers are watching closely as the case moves toward a potential decision that could reshape firearm costs statewide.
Texas Parks and Wildlife Department has approved new identity and residency verification rules for purchasing hunting and fishing licenses, beginning with the 2026–2027 license year. The change is designed to prevent residency fraud and protect resident pricing, but it will also affect how some hunters—especially those purchasing in person—verify their eligibility.
Montana hunters can now check their 2026 elk and deer permit drawing results after the state’s major mid-April release. While many hunters are celebrating successful draws, several key application deadlines — including antelope and B licenses — are still approaching later this spring and summer.
Southern Zone sets all-time record as statewide harvest climbs above long-term averages
Georgia lawmakers have approved sweeping new feral hog legislation in 2026, signaling one of the most aggressive state responses yet to invasive swine damage. The measures include expanded hunting and trapping authority, drone-assisted hog locating, and new state funding aimed at eradication.
A 3-year-old hunter, guided by an adult mentor, accidentally shot two individuals after a turkey misidentification at Honey Creek Wildlife Area. The incident is under investigation and is already prompting discussion among Wisconsin hunters about safety and mentorship standards.
California bear hunters received one of the biggest wins in years after the Fish and Game Commission approved sweeping black bear regulation changes on April 16. The new rules authorize up to two bear tags per hunter and expand legal hunting opportunity into new northeastern California areas. If final administrative approval is completed in time, the changes could reshape the 2026 season.
The latest Hunterizer update brings fully integrated Pennsylvania hunting seasons for 2026–2027, including expanded Sunday hunting opportunities. Migratory game bird seasons will be added later once finalized by PGC.
The Pennsylvania Game Commission approved new hunting seasons this weekend, expanding Sunday hunting across most seasons while introducing important changes to deer, bear, elk and turkey regulations. Here’s what hunters need to know heading into the 2026–27 season.
Michigan hunters will see a simplified three-zone system for the 2026 spring turkey season, along with clearer harvest reporting and game transport requirements. Here’s what to know before opening day.
The latest safety report from New York highlights a record-low number of shooting incidents in 2025, with zero fatalities. However, elevated stand accidents continue to pose a serious threat to hunters.
With spring turkey season already underway across most of Texas, Hunterizer releases its official 2026 Turkey Zones map—helping hunters navigate exact dates, zone boundaries, and updated regulations statewide.
A sweeping federal overhaul of the U.S. Forest Service is drawing sharply divided reactions from hunting and conservation groups. While some see a win for local control and access, others warn of long-term risks to habitat, science, and public land management.
The Pennsylvania Game Commission will convene April 10–11 to discuss regulations, wildlife management updates, and potential changes impacting hunters. From deer and turkey seasons to habitat priorities, several agenda items could shape upcoming hunting opportunities across the state.
With the release of the 2026 Big Game Digest by the CDFW, the Hunterizer app has rolled out updated seasons and tag information. California hunters are looking at expanded access, more tags, and brand-new hunt zones, pending final approval this April by Fish & Game Commission.
A newly introduced Senate bill targeting big game migration corridors is drawing rare bipartisan support—but its path through Congress remains uncertain. Here’s what hunters need to know now.
California hunters may see rare new opportunities as regulators respond to a booming bear population. Proposals for a second tag and expanded hunting areas are expected to be approved this spring. Insights from Bill Gaines on the Hunterizer Podcast suggest momentum is firmly on the side of expansion.
A controversial provision tied to the latest federal Farm Bill has raised concerns across the hunting community. While aimed at banning greyhound racing, critics warn the language could unintentionally impact long-standing hunting practices involving dogs. As the bill advances, hunters nationwide are watching closely.
Lawmakers in Pennsylvania are advancing a proposal that could bring hunter education directly into classrooms—an idea that supporters say could help recruit new hunters, improve safety, and preserve outdoor traditions.
An Idaho Fish and Game commissioner is under investigation following allegations tied to an unlawful elk harvest. The case has drawn attention from hunters and conservationists alike, raising questions about compliance, accountability, and leadership within the state’s wildlife management system.
The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department has approved a series of hunting regulation changes impacting dove, turkey, deer, and equipment rules. The updates aim to simplify seasons, address declining populations, and expand opportunity in key regions ahead of upcoming hunting seasons.
A mild winter across Idaho is translating into strong survival rates for deer fawns and elk calves, according to new data from state biologists. The encouraging numbers could signal improved herd recovery—and better hunting prospects—in the seasons ahead.
AB 1912 clears its first committee hurdle, signaling potential changes for California’s archery deer season. Supporters say it enhances safety, while critics worry about impacts to fair chase principles.
Preliminary numbers show a stable whitetail population and strong participation across the state. Officials highlight antlerless harvest as a key management tool.
CDFW released the North Central Deserts Bighorn Conservation Unit Plan on February 10, 2026, unlocking major new desert bighorn hunting opportunities. The plan recommends 3 brand-new hunt zones — Granite/North Bristol, Providence/Woods/Hackberry, and Castle/Piute Mountains — with conservative quotas that could boost the unit’s total tags from the current 5 to as many as 15 starting in the 2026-27 season. With roughly 900 healthy desert bighorn in the unit and strong science-based management, this marks one of the biggest expansions of sheep hunting opportunity in California in years.
Targeted action in northern Idaho marks first wolf removal effort of its kind in the Panhandle region. Officials say the move is aimed at improving struggling elk populations, while critics question long-term strategy.
After years of court battles, California has backed down from enforcing its controversial youth firearms marketing ban. The development marks a major legal win for hunting and shooting organizations nationwide.
Hunterizer launches its new publication series with wild game recipes from Jeff Benda, a seasoned wild game chef with 25 years of restaurant and catering experience. With spring turkey seasons approaching in many states, this debut features an approachable wild turkey breast recipe perfect for successful hunters – whether you’re new to cooking turkey or seeking a fresh twist.
Multi-year case uncovers widespread illegal harvest across three counties. Wildlife officers say dozens of deer may have been taken using unlawful methods, including spotlighting and out-of-season hunting.
State wildlife officials seek to expand antlerless opportunities and adjust seasons, while recent rule changes already reshape tagging and reporting requirements for hunters.
Several hunting and conservation organizations have filed a lawsuit seeking to halt the approved plan to remove all mule deer from Catalina Island. The plaintiffs argue the project was approved without the full environmental review required under California law.
Hunters and waterfowl enthusiasts in Pennsylvania now have an opportunity to weigh in on proposed migratory bird hunting seasons for 2026–27. The comment period allows sportsmen to share feedback on season timing, bag limits, and other regulations before final decisions are made.
A new proposal in the Michigan Legislature would provide free lifetime hunting and fishing licenses to some military veterans. Supporters say the measure recognizes service and could help more veterans reconnect with the outdoors.
Bipartisan legislation introduced in Sacramento would ensure millions of dollars generated by hunters are reinvested directly into California’s state wildlife areas for habitat management and hunting access.
More than 17,000 deer were tested statewide during the 2025 hunting seasons, with over 2,000 confirmed cases of chronic wasting disease. Most detections occurred in southern Wisconsin, though new cases continue to appear in additional counties across the state.
Hunterizer has rolled out a major upgrade for waterfowl hunters. The app’s Duck section now features high-quality images of both drakes and hens across 28 wild duck species — helping hunters sharpen identification skills in the field.
Michigan expands opportunities for hunters while aiming to balance coyote population and human-wildlife conflicts. The updated framework combines traditional hunting, trapping and a new long-duration management season with clear rules, timelines and licensing requirements.
The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) announces that the application period for the 2026 elk season opens March 1 and includes new subunit licensing, expanded quotas, and a continuous October–December season. Hunters must choose among specific hunting units or unit groups, with separate bull and antlerless drawings shaping opportunities across both elk management zones.
A recently introduced bill in the California State Senate seeks to explore the reintroduction of grizzly bears, absent from the state for over a century. While proponents highlight ecological and cultural benefits, critics worry about the implications for local wildlife management and human activities in the outdoors.
Big changes this year for out-of-state shed hunters in Montana — a new license and a waiting period on popular Wildlife Management Areas. Learn when you can pick up antlers, where the restrictions apply, and what lands are affected.
The new license year launches license sales and big game applications while major regulatory and legislative changes reshape opportunity. Hunters should note new nonresident bird season timing, adjusted deer license quotas, and updates affecting big game access.
Several Lion Management Units (LMUs) have shut down harvest of specific sexes after quotas were reached, reflecting strong hunter participation and tight population management. Montana’s quota-driven system continues to produce early closures in high-pressure areas while other districts remain open.
With the new license year opening April 1, Wisconsin hunters can now view updated season dates for deer, elk, bear, turkey, small game, game birds, and more inside the Hunterizer app. Additional opportunities will be added as the state releases further details.
Lawmakers advanced a proposal to establish Wisconsin’s first sandhill crane hunting season, citing crop damage and growing bird populations. The measure has drawn sharp reactions from hunters, farmers, and conservation groups as it moves to the State Senate for consideration.
In this episode, the Hunterizer team is joined by Rick Brazell — a lifelong hunter, wildlife biologist, and founder and president of the First Hunt Foundation (FHF). FHF is a national nonprofit dedicated to connecting new hunters with experienced volunteer mentors across the United States. Rick shares his passion for mentoring, the foundation’s programs, and why passing on these traditions matters more than ever.
Hunters have a limited chance this spring to pursue Roosevelt elk on private ranchlands along California’s North Coast. Applications are open now, with tags issued by random draw as part of a targeted effort to reduce agricultural damage and manage herd impacts.
Meghan Hertel has officially taken the helm of California’s wildlife agency, bringing a background in habitat conservation and land management. Her leadership arrives at a time when hunters are watching closely for direction on wildlife management, access, and conservation priorities across the state.
A recent enforcement action in Greene County, New York, resulted in fines and legal penalties after a hunter was found to have taken a deer illegally using the wrong harvest tag and without the proper permit. The case underscores the role of Environmental Conservation Police in upholding hunting regulations and the importance of ethical and lawful harvest practices for all hunters.
The California Fish and Game Commission has designated six Central and Southern California mountain lion populations as threatened under state law, while leaving Northern and Sierra populations unchanged. The decision could reshape habitat policy, predator management, and long-term deer herd dynamics in key hunting regions. Here’s what the ruling means for sportsmen, ranchers, and wildlife conservation across the state.
A hunter-harvested deer in Gladwin County tests positive for chronic wasting disease, marking the 18th Michigan county with confirmed cases and prompting renewed calls for testing and surveillance.
HARRISBURG, Pa. — Deer management and agricultural crop damage were front and center during a recent town hall discussion hosted by the Pennsylvania G…
Seasonal hiring across national forests and grasslands aims to strengthen habitat projects, wildfire preparedness, and public access ahead of the 2026 field season. The added workforce will support recreation, wildlife monitoring, and conservation work that directly benefits hunters and other public land users. Applications are expected to open in the coming months, offering outdoor enthusiasts a chance to work where they hunt and explore.
Harvest quotas are triggering early shutdowns in several trapping districts, including Region 4’s Feb. 11 closure after exceeding its limit. While some areas remain open, hunters and trappers face rapidly changing conditions as FWP monitors harvest totals statewide. Staying on top of quota updates is critical as the 2025–26 bobcat season enters its final stretch.
Georgia lawmakers have passed a bill in the House that would allow drones to assist in locating feral hogs on private land. The proposal aims to improve control of the invasive species while maintaining restrictions on aerial shooting. If enacted, the measure could add a new tool for landowners and hunters battling widespread hog damage.
Furbearer regulations, small game seasons and Michigan’s long-standing bovine tuberculosis issue headline this week’s Natural Resources Commission meeting in Lansing. With legislative updates and management discussions on the agenda, hunters and trappers will want to watch for signals that could shape future seasons. The meeting offers a key look at where wildlife policy may be headed in 2026.
A traffic stop in Parmer County led Texas Game Wardens to uncover illegally taken mule deer outside of the legal season. Officials say the case involved multiple violations tied to season dates and antler restrictions.
Drawing results are now live in Go Wild accounts, with nearly 15,000 bear permits issued statewide. Competition remains fierce in Zones A and B, while southern zones offered improved odds for 2026.
The Sunday hunting era is expanding fast in Pennsylvania. Following the January 24 PGC Board meeting, nearly every open season in 2026-27 will now include Sundays, delivering a major boost in hunting opportunity after decades of limited weekend access.
Wisconsin bear hunters will see expanded opportunity this fall after state wildlife officials approved a record number of bear hunting licenses. The move reflects strong hunter demand and ongoing efforts to manage a healthy black bear population across the state.
CDFW’s longtime director is out, and new leadership is taking over at a critical moment for California hunters. From deer tags and bear management to wolves and salmon closures, the decisions made next will directly affect hunting opportunity and access across the state.
California’s Catalina Island mule deer face total eradication after CDFW green-lights a five-year lethal removal plan, ending a century of regulated hunting on the island. Some conservation groups hail the move as essential to restore native habitats and reduce wildfire risk, while hunting organizations strongly condemn it as unnecessary and a loss of a cherished sporting tradition.
As predator populations expand across California, lawmakers heard blunt testimony from ranchers, hunters, and wildlife managers about livestock losses, public safety, and limited management tools. The hearing underscored the widening gap between predator protection policies and the realities faced by rural communities.
For the first time, Wisconsin could authorize a regulated sandhill crane hunting season. Lawmakers say the proposal would give hunters new opportunity while addressing crop damage, but the path forward remains uncertain as debate continues in Madison.
Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks has published the official 2026 big game regulations for deer, elk, antelope, moose, bighorn sheep, mountain goat, and bison. Hunterizer has already rolled out detailed seasons and tag info for moose, bighorn sheep, mountain goat, and bison – deer, elk, and antelope updates coming next week. Mark your calendars for the drawing deadlines and start researching zones now for the best shot at tags this fall!
Report your 2025 deer tags by January 31, 2026, and bear tags by February 1, 2026, to stay compliant and help manage our wildlife populations.
A late-morning water rescue on Cedar Creek Lake ended safely after emergency crews located two duck hunters who had been stranded in cold, rough conditions. Authorities say the incident highlights the risks hunters can face on open water during winter weather.
New York conservation officers say public reporting and follow-up investigation were key in resolving an illegal deer killing that occurred during the 2024 season. The case serves as a reminder of how quickly unlawful activity can unravel and the penalties that follow.
From new gear to emerging technology, SHOT Show 2026 highlights what’s next for hunters and the hunting industry.
The Pennsylvania Board of Game Commissioners will review proposed hunting seasons and bag limits for the 2026–27 license year, including a possible shift of the firearms deer opener to before Thanksgiving. Other topics include Sunday hunting for spring gobblers, bear season adjustments, elk management, and Chronic Wasting Disease response.
The U.S. Department of the Interior has issued a new order directing federal land agencies to expand hunting and fishing access while cutting back unnecessary regulations. The move reinforces hunting as a priority use of public lands and could open the door to more seasons, clearer rules, and fewer access restrictions for sportsmen.
From all of us on the Hunterizer Team, we wish you and your loved ones a very Merry Christmas filled with joy, warmth, and the spirit of the season. May your holidays be blessed with quality time outdoors, safe adventures, and the anticipation of many successful hunts in the year ahead.
Hunterizer Seasons just got a major update! Seasons & regulations now automatically match your exact GPS location and hunting zone, sunrise/sunset times included. Plus Georgia seasons added! Update now and hunt smarter.
By refusing to hear the appeal, the Supreme Court left standing a 10th Circuit ruling that permits corner crossing across six states. For hunters, the decision keeps large blocks of public land legally accessible in areas dominated by checkerboard ownership.
Spring Gobbler Season in Pennsylvania: Everything You Need to Know for 2025 As winter fades and the Pennsylvania woods begin to come alive, hunters across the state eagerly prepare for one of the most anticipated seasons of the year-spring gobbler season. This is more than just a hunt; it’s a time-honored tradition that has been …
t’s that time of year again-when wildlife agencies across the country start fine-tuning hunting regulations, and Texas is no exception. The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) is rolling out a set of proposed changes for the 2025-26 season, and now’s the time for hunters to speak up before the rules are finalized. From expanded …