Episode 54 - Q3 Policy Update: Public Lands Policy, SHARK Act Progress, and Forest Management Challenges

Hunting, fishing, and outdoor access face new legislative battles—here’s what every sportsman should know.

In this episode, the Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation team breaks down the latest updates shaping hunting, fishing, and outdoor conservation policy at both the state and federal levels.

First, Taylor Schmitz dives into recent public lands legislation, explaining how new proposals could impact hunters, anglers, and outdoor recreation. He highlights the fight to remove harmful language from a reconciliation package, stresses the dangers of selling federal public lands, and shares why community engagement is key to protecting access for future generations.

Next, Chris Horton covers Q3 updates in the fisheries and boating sector, including the reauthorization of the Sport Fish Restoration and Boating Trust Fund and the latest movement on the SHARKED Act. We discuss how shark depredation is affecting saltwater anglers, why conservation strategies must balance fisheries management with angler access, and how visual storytelling is being used to highlight marine conservation issues.

Finally, John Culclasure brings an update on federal and state forest policy, unpacking the challenges of wildfire threats, roadless rule restrictions, and timber sales. He shares highlights from the American Forest Congress, emphasizes the importance of stakeholder collaboration in active forest management, and explains what new legislation could mean for hunters, anglers, and forest health nationwide.

Key Takeaways for Hunters, Anglers, and Outdoor Enthusiasts:

• Selling federal public lands can create long-term problems for outdoor access if not done with careful analysis and forethought.


• The Farm Bill and upcoming federal funding deadlines could reshape conservation priorities.


• The Sport Fish Restoration and Boating Trust Fund is vital for fisheries and boating programs.


• Shark depredation is a growing problem for saltwater anglers.


• Forest management legislation, including the Fix Our Forests Act, could impact wildfire prevention.


• Collaboration between government, industry, and conservation groups is essential for sustainable outdoor policy.

Whether you’re passionate about public lands, fisheries, or forestry, this episode will keep you informed on the policy debates shaping the future of hunting, fishing, and outdoor recreation in America.

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/

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/

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices