Filthy deer. Kickers are for BRUTES! #AntlersAnonymous pic.twitter.com/pQZmtb3uu9

— Deer Hunting Addict (@VenaticFanatics) September 12, 2013

Florida Changes Requirement on Venting Tool

Starting Jan. 24, Florida anglers will no longer be required to have and use a venting tool when fishing for reef fish such as snapper and grouper in Gulf of Mexico state waters. Removal of this rule means anglers will have the freedom to determine how to best maximize survival of released reef fish using devices they feel are appropriate, depending on the circumstances.

Helping your fish survive helps you

Imagine for a minute you are out to sea, line wet, with about 150 feet of water separating boat from the bottom. You feel a tug. Instinct kicks in and you want to yank up to set the hook, but you remember that doesn’t work with circle hooks, a required gear when fishing for reef fish like snapper and grouper in all Gulf waters and in federal waters of the Atlantic south of 28 degrees north latitude. So you gently start reeling it in, hoping nothing eats your catch before you can get it to the boat.

Fishing Icon Bill Dance Honored for Many Contributions

NASHVILLE — Bill Dance, a Tennessee native and national fishing icon, has been honored for his many contributions to the sport of fishing and as a long-time proponent and supporter of the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency and its efforts to manage and improve fishing in the state.

Apply now for managed turkey hunts

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – Missouri turkey hunters have until Feb. 28 to apply for managed hunts during the 2014 spring turkey season.

This year’s offerings include managed hunts for archers, youths, and people with disabilities. Managed turkey hunts and application procedures are outlined in the Missouir Department of Conservation’s 2014 Spring Turkey Hunting Regulations and Information booklet, which is available online at http://www.mdc.mo.gov/7498. A print version will be available from hunting-permit vendors and MDC offices and nature centers around the state beginning in mid-February.

Missouri has some of the nation’s best turkey hunting, thanks to the cooperation of MDC, citizens, and landowners in a 25-year restoration program. To learn more about wild turkeys in Missouri, visit mdc.mo.gov/node/4105.

Hunters Urged to Practice Safety for Remainder of Deer Season

Two fatal hunting accidents during the past week have Alabama Conservation and Natural Resources (ADCNR) officials reminding hunters to practice safety at all times. The two incidents involved hunters who were not wearing the required hunter orange safety clothing and shooters who did not clearly identify their targets.

“Alabama law requires hunters to wear a minimum of 144 square inches of hunter orange during gun deer season,” said Alabama Hunter Education Coordinator Marisa Futral. “This is equivalent in size to a baseball cap or hat,” she said.

Smith & Wesson Donates Safety Equipment to NRA Women’s Programs

FAIRFAX, Va. – The National Rifle Association is pleased to announce that Smith & Wesson® has donated safety equipment valued at more than $500,000 to the NRA Women’s Programs for distribution at the Women on Target and the Female NRA Certified Instructor clinics. This Smith & Wesson contribution provides safety and protection equipment for women as they enter into the world of shooting sports.

Georgia Lifetime License Contest

ATLANTA, Ga. — It’s another sporting opportunity of a lifetime!

Georgians have the chance to win the right to hunt and fish for free for life statewide. The next edition of the Lifetime License Contest sponsored by the Georgia Natural Resources Foundation begins Jan. 6, 2014.