The Sportsmen's Voice

By Fred Bird | Congressional Sportsmen's Foundation

Fred Bird hosts The Sportsmen's Voice, a podcast from the Congressional Sportsmen's Foundation dedicated to conservation, hunting, and fishing advocacy. Join us as we explore key issues in hunting, fi... more

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FAQs about The Sportsmen's Voice:

How many episodes does The Sportsmen's Voice have?

The podcast currently has 129 episodes available.

The Sportsmen's Voice episodes:

July 23, 2025TSV Roundup Week of July 21st, 2025
Ballot box biology, poaching crackdowns, and new hunting tech—here’s what’s shaping conservation policy.
In this episode of The Sportsmen’s Voice Roundup, Fred dives into the most important hunting and conservation news across the country. From stronger poaching penalties in New Hampshire to landmark private property rights legislation in North Carolina, sportsmen and women face major changes that will impact how we hunt, fish, and manage wildlife.

Fred breaks down how ballot box biology continues to threaten science-based wildlife management and what hunters can do to fight back. You’ll also hear how new hunting technologies are being debated for use in Indiana, and why smart tech could actually improve safety and reliability in the field.

This episode is packed with updates on conservation funding, sportsmen’s caucus collaboration, and how public education is key to defending our outdoor traditions. Whether you’re a hunter, angler, or other conservationist, you’ll come away informed and fired up to protect what matters most.

Key Highlights:
New Hampshire considers increased penalties for wildlife poaching.

North Carolina advances property rights for private landowners.

CSF defeats anti-sportsman legislation and passes key pro-hunting bills.

Ballot initiatives continue to sideline science in wildlife management decisions.

Indiana weighs the pros and cons of new hunting technologies.

Conservation funding remains vital for effective fish and game management.

National unity among hunters and anglers is critical to shaping future policy.

Get the FREE Sportsmen’s Voice e-publication in your inbox every Monday: www.congressionalsportsmen.org/newsletter

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40min
July 16, 2025TSV Roundup Week of July 14th, 2025
Fred Bird and Kaleigh Leager, Assistant Manager, Mid-Atlantic States for the Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation cover this week’s conservation news, including the recent victories for Sunday Hunting in Pennsylvania which Kaleigh joins us for. The conversation highlights the importance of bipartisan support in conservation efforts, the role of key figures like Pennsylvania Governor Shapiro and bipartisan support in the Legislatures, and the ongoing challenges faced in wildlife management and habitat restoration. Fred then turns to the rest of the news from around the nation including a wrap-up of the One Big Beautiful Bill, Crossbows in Minnesota, and much more.

Key Takeaways
Governor Shapiro of Pennsylvania’s support for sportsmen is a positive sign for future legislation.

The One Big Beautiful Bill has significant implications for sportsmen.

The removal of the $200 tax stamp for suppressors is a major win.

CSF's representation in Washington ensures sportsmen's voices are heard.

President Trump's Make America Beautiful Again executive order aims to bolster conservation efforts.

Crossbows are now fully included in Minnesota's archery season.

Wildlife habitat restoration projects in North Carolina are moving forward.

Active management of public lands is crucial for wildlife health.

Get the FREE Sportsmen’s Voice e-publication in your inbox every Monday: www.congressionalsportsmen.org/newsletter

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47min
July 10, 2025Episode 50 - Back-to-Back Sunday Hunting Wins!
Sunday hunting is officially expanding in Connecticut and Pennsylvania, marking a major victory for hunters, conservationists, and rural communities. In this episode, Fred is joined by representatives of each state’s fish and wildlife agency to break down the new legislation that opens up Sunday hunting opportunities, explore how it impacts hunter access, and discuss what it means for the future of hunting and wildlife conservation.

Steve Smith, Executive Director of the Pennsylvania Game Commission joins us to look at Pennsylvania’s recent rescinding of the Sunday hunting prohibition in PA, tracing the decades-long legislative battle and the positive ripple effects it’s already creating for hunters and wildlife management.

Jenny Dickson, Director of Wildlife, Bureau of Natural Resources, Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection then joins the show to share insights on the Connecticut Sunday hunting bill, its potential to boost youth hunting participation, and how it benefits local economies tied to the hunting and fishing industry.

Whether you’re passionate about deer hunting, turkey hunting, or waterfowl hunting, this conversation explains how expanded hunting days can help sportsmen and women spend more time in the field, strengthen family traditions, and contribute even more to conservation funding.

Key Takeaways for Hunters and Anglers:
CSF has been a leading champion of removing restrictions on Sunday hunting for well over a decade – passing over 20 pro-Sunday hunting bills in 9 states.

Sunday hunting legislation expands hunting opportunities for deer, turkey, small game, and more.

Youth hunting participation is vital for the future of hunting traditions and conservation funding.

Sportsmen and women contribute significant revenue to conservation efforts through license fees and excise taxes.

The economic impact of hunting reaches far beyond license sales, benefiting local outfitters, retailers, and tourism businesses.

Connecticut’s new Sunday hunting law takes effect October 1st.

Waterfowl hunting regulations remain unchanged despite the new law in Connecticut.

Hunters must secure landowner permission before hunting on private land, in Connecticut.

More flexible hunting days help optimize hunting strategies and time afield.

Pennsylvania’s Sunday hunting law is expected to boost hunter participation and conservation dollars.

Decades-long legislative efforts led to successful Sunday hunting legalization in Pennsylvania.

Expanded hunting days support better wildlife management and sustainable game populations.

Repealing Sunday hunting restrictions provide families more time to hunt together and introduce new hunters to the outdoors.

Connecticut and Pennsylvania could become models for other states considering Sunday hunting bills.

Get the FREE Sportsmen’s Voice e-publication in your inbox every Monday: www.congressionalsportsmen.org/newsletter

Sign up for FREE legislative tracking through CSF’s Tracking the Capitols tool: www.congressionalsportsmen.org/tracking-the-capitols/

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54min
July 09, 2025TSV Roundup Week of July 7th, 2025
Fred Bird and Christian Ragosta are in studio this week to break down the latest wins and challenges in conservation policy and sportsmen’s rights, including celebrating major victories with the repeal of Sunday hunting restrictions in both Pennsylvania and Connecticut—a significant milestone for hunters seeking expanded access and opportunities in both, the Keystone State and Nutmeg State. Christian shares insights into how strong legislative support from the Sportsmen’s Caucus in Connecticut helped drive these changes across the finish line.

But it’s not all good news. The conversation turns to Rhode Island, where a controversial “assault weapons” ban has sparked heated debate. Fred and Christian examine the political motivations behind the legislation, the contentious registration requirements, and the ripple effects it could have on conservation funding and non-resident hunting participation. They also discuss the possibility that the law could end up before the Supreme Court.

Key Takeaways
Sunday Hunting Wins: Pennsylvania and Connecticut have repealed longstanding bans on Sunday hunting—a significant success for sportsmen’s access and opportunity.

Role of the Sportsmen’s Caucus: Christian Ragosta highlights how the Connecticut Sportsmen’s Caucus played a crucial role in supporting pro-hunting legislation.

Rhode Island’s Assault Weapons Ban: Reflects a broader trend of states pursuing similar gun control measures, while it raises concerns about the motivations behind the legislation and its potential impacts on lawful hunters and conservation funding. Non-resident hunters may be particularly affected by new regulations.

Ongoing Advocacy is Key: Hunters and conservation advocates must remain vigilant and proactive to protect access and ensure sustainable funding for wildlife and habitat management.

Supreme Court Watch: The potential for legal challenges to Rhode Island’s law could set significant precedents for sportsmen nationwide.

Get the FREE Sportsmen’s Voice e-publication in your inbox every Monday: www.congressionalsportsmen.org/newsletter

Sign up for FREE legislative tracking through CSF’s Tracking the Capitols tool: www.congressionalsportsmen.org/tracking-the-capitols/

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55min
June 26, 2025Episode 49 - Quarter 2 Hunting, Fishing, and Conservation Policy Update – Federal Legislation, Fisheries Management & Public Lands
Quarter 2 Hunting, Fishing, and Conservation Policy Update – Federal Legislation, Fisheries Management & Public Lands

Narrative: In this Q2 federal policy roundup for hunters, anglers, and conservation advocates, we dive deep into the latest developments shaping the future of hunting, fishing, public lands, and forest management.

Hunting and Public Lands Policy with Taylor Schmitz
First up, Director of Federal Relations Taylor Schmitz breaks down key federal policy shifts impacting sportsmen and women. From new Department of the Interior appointments to controversial proposals around public land sales, Taylor explains what these developments mean for hunting access, land conservation, and the broader outdoor community. Learn why Kate McGregor’s return and Brian Nesvik’s nomination matter to hunters and anglers, and why the upcoming congressional schedule is critical to follow.

Fishing and Fisheries Management with Chris Horton
Next, Senior Director of Fisheries Policy Chris Horton joins to discuss top federal priorities affecting fishing and recreational anglers. He covers major legislation like the reauthorization of the Sport Fish Restoration and Boating Trust Fund and the Marine Fisheries Habitat Protection Act, along with the impact of shifting ocean conditions and the growing need for smarter fisheries management. Chris emphasizes collaboration between federal and state agencies and encourages all anglers to stay informed and active in fishing policy debates.

Forest Management and Timber Policy with John Culclasure
To close out the episode, Senior Director of Forestry Policy John Culclasure provides an update on the Fix Our Forests Act and its implications for wildlife habitat, forest access, and timber production. He highlights how responsible forest management supports both conservation and hunting opportunities, while also touching on national security concerns tied to domestic timber supply. In addition, he discusses how state-level policies are affecting access to public lands for the hunting and fishing community.

Key Takeaways for Hunters and Anglers:
Federal hunting and fishing policy is being shaped by new leadership at the Department of the Interior.

Congress is tackling big-ticket items like public land sales that could impact millions of acres used for hunting and fishing.

Reauthorization of the Sport Fish Restoration Fund is a major win for recreational fishing and boating access.

Fisheries legislation aims to protect marine habitats and support sustainable sportfishing.

Forest policy reform through the Fix Our Forests Act is crucial for maintaining habitat, access, and wildlife conservation.

Misinformation around forest management could threaten future access for sportsmen.

Domestic timber markets face challenges that could impact long-term forest health and hunting grounds.

Active engagement by the hunting and fishing community is essential to protect our outdoor heritage and public lands.

Get the FREE Sportsmen’s Voice e-publication in your inbox every Monday: www.congressionalsportsmen.org/newsletter

Sign up for FREE legislative tracking through CSF’s Tracking the Capitols tool: www.congressionalsportsmen.org/tracking-the-capitols/

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1h 3min
June 25, 2025TSV Roundup Week of June 23rd, 2025
Fred Bird dives into a lead story about a critical fisheries reform bill in North Carolina with Senior Coordinator, Southeastern States Conner Barker. House Bill 442, which aims to prohibit industrial shrimp trawling in inshore waters, highlights the ecological impacts of shrimp trawling, including bycatch and habitat destruction. Fred and Conner emphasize the support from the recreational fishing community for these badly needed reforms, and share a positive outlook on the future of marine conservation efforts in the Tar Heel State. Fred then transitions to cover the rest of the news fit to print about the great outdoors this week, including the push for a habitat project in Virginia; hunting opportunities expansion in Hawaii to manage invasive feral pigs, goats and sheep; and much more!

Takeaways
Critical Fisheries Reform Legislation Advancing in NC: House Bill 442 aims to prohibit industrial shrimp trawling in inshore waters, where North Carolina's estuaries are vital marine habitats and bycatch from shrimp trawling negatively impacts juvenile fish species. North Carolina is an anomaly among Southeastern states in that they allow industrial shrimp trawling in the state’s inshore waters.

Early Successional Habitat in Virginia: Timber harvest, prescribed burns, and other vegetation treatments in the VA Archer Knob project will help correct an age-class imbalance on the George Washington National Forest.

Hawaii Game Management: The 2025 game management area hunting season empowers sportsmen and women to manage invasive species, while protecting native ecosystems and providing sporting opportunity. By targeting feral species, hunters support the critically endangered palila, aligning with conservation goals.

Get the FREE Sportsmen’s Voice e-publication in your inbox every Monday: www.congressionalsportsmen.org/newsletter

Sign up for FREE legislative tracking through CSF’s Tracking the Capitols tool: www.congressionalsportsmen.org/tracking-the-capitols/

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35min
June 18, 2025TSV Roundup Week of June 16th, 2025
Fred Bird and Taylor Schmitz discuss the current legislative landscape surrounding federal public lands, focusing on the Senate's push to sell off significant portions of these lands. They explore the implications of such actions on local communities, the importance of scrutiny in the legislative process, and the need for collaboration between stakeholders to address the challenges posed by federal land management. The conversation emphasizes the complexity of the issue and the necessity for a balanced approach that considers both conservation and community needs. Fred then transitions to cover the rest of the news fit to print about the great outdoors this week, including the push for Sunday Hunting in Pennsylvania, the 75th anniversary of the Sport Fish Restoration Act, the Will Primos Invitational event, and legislative highlights from Mississippi, Michigan, Wisconsin, and Wyoming, emphasizing the importance of sustainable practices and community engagement in conservation efforts.

Takeaways
CSF Opposes Push to Sell off Federal Lands: CSF remains opposed to moving land disposals and sales through the reconciliation process, which requires a simple majority vote in the U.S. Senate compared to the normal threshold of 60 votes.

The Will Primos Invitational: The Will Primos Invitational combines sporting traditions with conservation efforts. Learn more about this incredible event by listening in!

Legislative Updates: Featuring updates including Mississippi's legislative session and the need for better conservation funding. Michigan and Wisconsin modernizing their conservation funding mechanisms. Wyoming addressing wildlife management and conservation priorities for 2026 and much more.

Get the FREE Sportsmen’s Voice e-publication in your inbox every Monday: www.congressionalsportsmen.org/newsletter

Sign up for FREE legislative tracking through CSF’s Tracking the Capitols tool: www.congressionalsportsmen.org/tracking-the-capitols/

ALPHEUS RIGS TO REEFS ARENA TRAILER: https://vimeo.com/1093711323/1b722adfa4?ts=0&share=copy

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51min
June 13, 2025Episode 48 - Predators, Politics & Conservation: The Complex Future of Wildlife Management
In this episode, we dive deep into the evolving landscape of predator and wildlife management across the United States. From the reinstatement of black bear hunting in Louisiana to ongoing debates in Florida and Washington, we explore how science, legislation, and public perception shape the future of hunting, conservation, and land use.

Join Fred and the crew as they examine the growing tensions between wildlife and human development, the role of hounds and trapping in sustainable management, and why the hunting community must better communicate its conservation value. We also discuss the challenges of managing emerging predators like jaguars and the controversial reintroduction of species into ecosystems.

Key Takeaways:
Bear Hunting Regulations Vary Widely by State: Oregon and Idaho offer spring bear seasons; Washington does not. Louisiana recently reinstated its black bear hunting season after decades, and Florida is considering reopening its black bear season.

Science-Based Wildlife Management Is Essential: Predator-prey dynamics are complex and must be studied to avoid unintended consequences. Reintroduction of species, such as wolves and mountain lions, can disrupt existing ecosystems.

Trapping and Hound Hunting Remain Valuable Tools: Used for selective predator control and critical data collection. Legislative efforts continue to impact their use across states.

Legislation and Public Perception Drive Wildlife Policy: Conservation decisions are often shaped more by emotion than by science. The hunting community must better advocate for its role in sustainable wildlife management.

Get the FREE Sportsmen’s Voice e-publication in your inbox every Monday: www.congressionalsportsmen.org/newsletter

Sign up for FREE legislative tracking through CSF’s Tracking the Capitols tool: www.congressionalsportsmen.org/tracking-the-capitols/

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1h 14min
June 11, 2025TSV Roundup Week of June 9th, 2025
The Sportsmen’s Voice Roundup for this week kicks off with CSF’s Senior Director, Fisheries Policy Chris Horton for our lead story on the management of Atlantic red snapper. Chris provides insights into the recent changes in regulations, the importance of accurate data collection, and the potential for state management of fisheries. The conversation highlights the challenges faced by recreational fishermen and the need for innovative management strategies to ensure sustainability and access to fishing resources. Fred then transitions to cover the rest of the news fit to print about the great outdoors this week, including Oklahoma's Senate Bill 50, which provides tax exemptions for firearm safety devices, and the defeat of two detrimental bills in California. It also highlights South Carolina's legislative successes in conservation and access, updates on pro-knife legislation in the Northeast, and the Congressional Fishing Competition that emphasized community engagement and conservation efforts.

Takeaways
Atlantic Red Snapper Management: The final version of Amendment 59 addresses red snapper management. NOAA's overfishing designation was based on outdated assessments, meanwhile, the South Atlantic now has the highest abundance of red snapper in history and state management of red snapper could improve fishing access.

Oklahoma SB50: Hailed as a significant bipartisan victory, this sales tax exemption on gun safes supports responsible firearm ownership.

California Victories: California's recent legislative victories include the defeat of several anti-gun bills including Senate Bill 15, which unfairly targeted FFL holders for illegal firearm use.

Get the FREE Sportsmen’s Voice e-publication in your inbox every Monday: www.congressionalsportsmen.org/newsletter

Sign up for FREE legislative tracking through CSF’s Tracking the Capitols tool: www.congressionalsportsmen.org/tracking-the-capitols/

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43min
June 04, 2025TSV Roundup Week of June 2nd, 2025
The Sportsmen’s Voice Roundup for this week kicks off with CSF’s Assistant Manager, Northeastern States Christian Ragost for our lead story regarding the imminent “assault” weapons ban in Rhode Island, the implications for law-abiding citizens - including criminalizing important safety accessories such as barrel shrouds (which prevent burns from contact with gun barrels), thumbholes in shotgun stocks, and more, along with the impact on conservation funding. Christian and Fred explore the political dynamics surrounding the legislation and the ongoing challenges faced by the firearms community. Fred then transitions to cover the rest of the news fit to print about the great outdoors this week, including the introduction of the Forest Conservation Easement Program, the potential reestablishment of a black bear hunting season in Florida, the Hawaii Wildlife Conservation and Game Bird Stamp contest, and a recap of sporting bills in the Missouri legislative session.

Takeaways
Rhode Island “Assault” Weapons Ban: This imminent ban would criminalize several important safety accessories as ‘assault weapons’ including barrel shrouds (which protect your hand from burns associate with barrel heat), thumbholes in shotgun stocks, pistol grips, extendable or telescopic stocks to better fit competitive shooters, and more.

The Forest Conservation Easement Program: Private forests comprise 58 percent of all forestland in the U.S. and face significant conversion pressure from housing and urban development. The U.S. could lose a net of 37 million acres (15 million hectares) — the size of Illinois — of forest by 2060. To address the growing suite of pressing environmental and societal challenges in front of us, we must provide opportunities for private forestland and forest landowners of all types and sizes to protect and conserve their land now and for future generations.

Florida Black Bear Hunting Season: Florida is considering instituting a management hunt to better control the black bear population in the Sunshine State.

Get the FREE Sportsmen’s Voice e-publication in your inbox every Monday: www.congressionalsportsmen.org/newsletter

Sign up for FREE legislative tracking through CSF’s Tracking the Capitols tool: www.congressionalsportsmen.org/tracking-the-capitols/

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40min

FAQs about The Sportsmen's Voice:

How many episodes does The Sportsmen's Voice have?

The podcast currently has 129 episodes available.

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