Take Your Kids Hunting in Gatlinburg
February 3, 2012
With all the beauty and natural wonder of Tennessee’s Smoky Mountains, it is not surprising that the pretty town of Gatlinburg has become one of the most sought-after vacation spots for families looking to get away from it all.
On the doorstep of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park are lots of fun outdoor activities. When you take your kids hunting in Gatlinburg’s beautiful surroundings, you can teach them in some of America’s most pristine wilderness. Book a comfortable cabin right in the woods and enjoy some family time on your own out in nature.
Teach the Kids about Hunting
Gatlinburg is ideal for family hunting trips. There is a variety of game in the Cherokee National Forest, including deer, grouse and wild turkey. Before heading out, it is important to note that certain areas of the forest are closed to hunting, and a valid Tennessee or North Carolina hunting license is required.
There is also hunting in the nearby Nantahala and Pisgah National Forests across the state line in North Carolina, where a North Carolina hunting license will be needed.
Kids under the age of 10 do not need a hunter safety certificate, but they must always be accompanied by an adult over age 21.
The Tennessee Hunting and Trapping Guide is a great resource for information about hunting in this area, including the dates of the various hunting seasons, bag limits and necessary permits and licenses. This guide can be found at any sporting goods store in Gatlinburg.
Other Things to Do in Gatlinburg
If the kids are done with hunting and want something else to do for the day, there are plenty of great attractions and other outdoor activities all around the Gatlinburg region. There’s excellent whitewater rafting for kids over the age of 12, and more than 600 miles of marked trails for hiking. Young anglers will find hundreds of places to fish in the region’s lakes and streams. Fun urban attractions right in Gatlinburg include bumper cars, go-karts, mini-golf and the famous Ripley’s Believe It or Not Museum, with an aquarium, a theater and a “fun zone.”
Where to Stay in Gatlinburg
With all the natural beauty surrounding you, the best place to stay is in one of the hundreds of excellent Gatlinburg cabin rentals in the woods. There are plenty of authentic log cabins available, many with modern amenities like satellite television and hot tubs. A vacation cottage rental in the woods will offer gorgeous views across the Smoky Mountains and plenty of room for the kids to run and play, not to mention the privacy and relaxation of being surrounded by nature.
Every kid deserves to spend time learning about the joys and wonders of the great outdoors, and the outdoors doesn’t get any greater than here in the Smoky Mountains of Tennessee. Start planning today to take your kids hunting in Gatlinburg on a trip that will create wonderful memories to last a lifetime!
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NWTF Invites Media to National Convention and Sport Show
January 3, 2012
Members of the media are invited to register for a media badge granting complimentary admission to the 2012 NWTF National Convention and Sport Show Feb. 9-12 at Gaylord Opryland Resort and Convention Center in Nashville, Tenn.
Media badges will provide access to more than 650 booths with the latest outdoor gear from leading brands, the NWTF Grand National Calling Championships, taxidermy exhibits and various seminars and workshops led by top experts in their fields.
The theme for the 36th annual NWTF event is: “Hunters: Champions of Conservation.”
Tickets can be purchased for special meals and events, including the NWTF Awards Banquet on Feb. 11 featuring U.S. Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia as keynote speaker and performances by country music stars Ricky Skaggs and Ashton Shepherd. Lt. General Buck Bedard, USMC, will speak Feb. 11 at the Winchester Breakfast. Country and gospel artists Daves Highway will perform at the Feb. 12 Remington Breakfast.
To register for a media badge, please contact John Brasier at jbrasier@nwtf.net or (803) 637-7667. Those who register by Feb. 1 will receive a personalized NWTF badge. Registration also will be available on site at the NWTF media room.
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MidwayUSA Sponsors NWTF Convention and Sport Show
December 12, 2011
Edgefield, SC — MidwayUSA, the catalog and Internet retailer, will showcase its role as a major champion of conservation by sponsoring the National Wild Turkey Federation’s 2012 National Convention and Sport Show, Feb. 9-12 at Gaylord Opryland Resort in Nashville, Tenn.
Fittingly, the theme of the 36th annual NWTF convention is: “Hunters: Champions of Conservation.” MidwayUSA has now sponsored the NWTF National Convention and Sport Show for three consecutive years. About 43,000 people attended in 2011.
“This is an event that outdoor enthusiasts circle on their calendar with great anticipation each year,” said George C. Thornton, NWTF CEO. “We’re grateful to have the support of MidwayUSA, which shares our dedication to the conservation of North America’s wildlife populations and habitat, in providing a wonderful experience for our convention.”
Each February, NWTF volunteers, members, staff, partners and outdoors enthusiasts gather at the NWTF convention to celebrate the NWTF’s accomplishments and plan for the future. This year’s show will feature more than 650 booths with performances from entertainers Ricky Skaggs and The Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, exciting competition in the NWTF Grand National Calling Championships and more. Check www.nwtf.org for more information.
NWTF members and active military personnel will receive free admission to the expo floor with their NWTF membership card or military ID.
Attendees interested in booking rooms at the reduced NWTF rate should book immediately. Opryland’s reserved block of rooms will be released to the general public on Jan. 18. Hotel guests receive free parking.
The NWTF is the leader in upland wildlife habitat conservation in North America. A nonprofit organization dedicated to conserving the wild turkey and preserving our hunting heritage, the NWTF and its volunteers work closely with state, federal and provincial wildlife agencies and other partners.
Through these dynamic partnerships, the NWTF and its members helped restore wild turkey populations throughout North America, spending more than $372 million to conserve 17 million acres of habitat.
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SportDOG Supports Whitetails Unlimited with Lurelogik Donation
July 7, 2011
Knoxville, Tennessee – SportDOG Brand, a leading manufacturer of sporting dog training gear and accessories, has expanded its support of conservation causes with a donation of Lurelogik hunting scent products to Whitetails Unlimited.
By using the Lurelogik spray timer dispenser or remote control dispenser, hunters and wildlife observers can increase their odds of getting closer to deer.
“Our remote systems have numerous applications beyond our broad line of electronic dog training products, and this is just one more way we can benefit hunters and help another conservation group in its mission,” said Eleanor Marshall of SportDOG Brand.
WTU will use the Lurelogik systems as a means of fund-raising, according to Kevin Devault, the group’s national funding director.
Whitetails Unlimited, formed in 1982, is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to the betterment of the whitetail herd and wildlife habitat. The group focuses on conservation, education and preservation of the hunting tradition. For more information, visit www.whitetailsunlimited.com.
SportDOG Brand’s support of WTU is one of many initiatives included in the company’s Conservation Fund. To find out more, visit www.sportdog.com.
SportDOG Brand of Knoxville, Tennessee, is a manufacturer of electronic dog training gear and accessories. Product lines include remote training collars, no-bark collars, in-ground fence systems and remote tracking systems. The company also carries Lucky Dog training equipment,Tracker dog-locating products and Canine Athlete nutritional products.
Contact:
Eleanor Marshall, SportDOG Brand (865) 218-1533
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Tennessee Elk Permit to Be Auctioned on E-bay by TWRF
June 27, 2011
Don’t miss this last chance at a 2011 TN Elk Tag!
Nashville, TN – The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency recently announced the issuance of 5 Special Elk Take Permits for the upcoming 2011 hunting season. Four of the special permits were issued through the TWRA quota hunt drawing system. These permits were awarded to Richard Rutherford of Walland, Terrell Holt of Columbia, John Alston of Knoxville, and Jody Moore of Loudon.
The remaining special elk take permit was awarded to a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization through the state’s Request For Proposals (RFP) process. The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Foundation, Inc. (TWRF) was selected as the recipient of this year’s NPO tag. The TWRF will auction off the tag to the highest bidder through an e-bay auction Thursday, July 14 to Saturday, July 23, 2011. The proceeds from the sale of this special elk tag will go to benefit the elk restoration program. TWRF is partnering with Bill Swan, an experienced e-bay seller and active member of the Chattanooga Chapter of Safari Club International (SCI), on the promotion and sale of this Elk Tag.
The elk hunt will take place at the North Cumberland WMA in East Tennessee from Monday, October 17th to Friday, October 21st of 2011. This will be the third year for the Tennessee elk hunt, and the successful bidder has very good odds for killing a mature bull elk. More information concerning the hunt will be listed in the e-bay auction. Search “Tennessee Elk Permit” on e-bay to find the listing after July 10th.
The North Cumberland WMA will be sub-divided into five (5) Elk Hunting Zones (EHZ). Each hunter will be designated an EHZ through a handheld drawing conducted at a TWRA Region IV location (location, dates and times TBA). The purchaser of this elk permit will be required to purchase an elk license before participating in the hunt. The resident elk license (Type 256) is $27.00, and a non-resident elk license (Type 257) is $300.00. Sportsman and Lifetime license holders are exempt from having to purchase the elk license. All other licenses and permits to hunt big game in Tennessee are required.
TWRF is proud to be a part of this success story, where an animal reintroduction has been successful enough to allow for management through hunting. We look forward to many more successful hunts in years to come.
For additional information about the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Foundation, go to www.twrf.net. TWRF is a 501(c) (3) nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting habitat conservation, responsible land stewardship, and Tennessee’s hunting and fishing heritage for the benefit of Tennessee’s wildlife and it’s outdoor enthusiasts.
Contact:
Andy Edwards, Programs and Events Director
Tennessee Wildlife Resources Foundation
615-831-9311 x 214
aedwards@twrf.net
www.twrf.net
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USA’s Sporting Clay Series Heads to New York
June 20, 2011
Nashville, TN The Union Sportsmen’s Alliance (USA) conservation based hunting and fishing organization for Union members, retirees and their families will host its inaugural New York Sporting Clays Shoot, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, July 9 at Suffolk County Skeet, Trap & Sporting Clays, located at 165 Gerard Road in Yaphank.
Bringing together Union members, leaders, contractors, family members and friends for a fun-filled day of outdoor recreation, the sporting clays shoots also raise imperative funding to support the USA’s nationwide conservation programs such as Boots on the Ground and promote the importance of building a sustainable country to the more than 400,000 Union workers in New York.
Individual shooter registration starts at $125 (lunch, shells and targets provided), and premium and classic sponsorship opportunities are available from $500 – $5,000. Deadline for shooter registration is Tuesday, July 5.
In 2011, the USA will host more than 20 sporting clays and trap shoots in 17 states across the country including Alaska, California, Nevada, Kansas, Missouri, Washington D.C. and more.
For more information or to register, visit www.unionsportsmen.org/events.
The Union Sportsmen’s Alliance (USA) is a conservation based hunting and fishing organization for Union members, retirees and their families. The USA works to expand and improve hunting and fishing access and wildlife habitat throughout North America. For more information, visit www.unionsportsmen.org or www.facebook.com/unionsportsmen.
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Gaylord Opryland Resort to Host the Inaugural Bass Pro Shops Land and Wildlife Expo Presented by Ram Truck
June 17, 2011
Nashville, Tenn. – Thousands of outdoor enthusiasts will converge at Gaylord Opryland Resort and Convention Center Aug. 12-14, 2011, for the Bass Pro Shops Land and Wildlife Expo presented by Ram Truck, a first-of-its-kind collaboration between the nation’s top five land and wildlife conservation organizations.
Ducks Unlimited, National Wild Turkey Federation, Quality Deer Management Association, Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation and Safari Club International Foundation have joined forces to share the latest innovations for developing, preserving and enjoying America’s rich hunting land.
This three-day event features a massive indoor hunting exhibit hall, outdoor equipment test drives, crop demonstrations, seminars by leading biologists, kids’ activities and a private concert with Opry Member Craig Morgan and special guest Jeff Foxworthy.
“Supporting conservation is a long-standing Bass Pro Shops tradition and we are thrilled our customers will have the opportunity to interact with these top organizations, companies and celebrities under one roof,” said Bass Pro Shops Founder Johnny Morris. “You won’t want to miss your chance to take part.”
The 113,000-square-foot indoor exhibit hall will feature must-have products and equipment for the upcoming hunting season, product demos from top outdoor companies and celebrity appearances.
Outside, 105 acres of private land adjacent to Opryland will become an outdoor playground with ATV and UTV test tracks, tractor pulls, food plot and crop demonstrations, classic truck and tractor exhibits and a Kid’s Village featuring activities for all ages including a zip line and treestand safety demo, a shooting trailer presented by NWTF JAKES Take Aim and an archery range presented by the National Archery in the Schools Program.
Adventurous attendees can head over to presenting sponsor Ram Truck’s demonstration area to test drive their range of trucks designed specifically for outdoor enthusiasts.
“Ram Truck is involved in the Land and Wildlife Expo because conservation and stewardship of the land play a vital role in sustaining the sport for future generations,” said Fred Diaz, President and CEO – Ram Truck Brand and Chrysler de Mexico, Chrysler Group LLC. “The majority of truck owners are involved in hunting and fishing. Being here to share their passion, while at the same time giving attendees the chance to get a fun, hands-on feel for our Ram Truck lineup is a great way to connect with new customers.”
Back inside, the conservation partners will team up once again to deliver an all-star lineup of land management experts at The Mossy Oak True North Seminar Summit. This two-day series is designed specifically for hunters, landowners, and land managers looking to get the most from their properties through wildlife management and habitat development.
“We designed the seminar summit to resemble a land and wildlife management university with cutting-edge topics presented by the nation’s top experts,” said Brian Murphy, CEO of Quality Deer Management Association, whose 2011 convention is being held in conjunction with the Expo. “The information provided will be worth thousands to anyone who manages land for wildlife.”
Attendees can save up to 50 percent on packages that include seminars, accommodation and meals by registering online before June 30. Day passes to the Expo are $20, three-day passes are $45, and children 12 and under receive free Expo admission with a paying adult.
Visit www.LandandWildlifeExpo.com for reservations and more information.
ABOUT GAYLORD OPRYLAND
Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center in Nashville, Tenn., is the largest non-gaming hotel facility in the continental U.S. and the flagship property of Gaylord Hotels, owned by Nashville-based Gaylord Entertainment (NYSE: GET). The newly-renovated resort boasts 2,881 rooms and more than 600,000 square feet of meeting, convention and exhibit space. The property features nine acres of lavish indoor gardens and waterfalls under its signature glass atriums. For reservations or to learn about the wide array dining, shopping and entertainment options at the world-famous resort, visit www.GaylordOpryland.com or call 1-888-999-OPRY.
Ducks Unlimited is the world’s largest nonprofit organization dedicated to conserving North America’s continually disappearing waterfowl habitats. Established in 1937, Ducks Unlimited has conserved more than 12 million acres, thanks to contributions from more than a million supporters across the continent. Guided by science and dedicated to program efficiency, DU works toward the vision of wetlands sufficient to fill the skies with waterfowl today, tomorrow and forever.
Contact:
Brian Abrahamson
Land and Wildlife Expo
Babrahamson@gaylordentertainment.com
615-316-6302
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AKC Approves SportDOG’s GPS Collars for Pointing Dog Competitions
June 14, 2011
Knoxville, Tennessee – The American Kennel Club’s Performance Events Department has added the SportDOG Brand® TEK-V1L GPS tracking system to its list of approved tracking devices for use in pointing dog field trials and hunting tests. The TEK-V1L allows dog handlers to keep tabs on far-ranging pointing and trailing dogs via a collar with a built-in GPS and a handheld transceiver.
The TEK system’s compact transceiver features a backlit liquid crystal display and integral electronic compass. The scalable screen provides a 75-mile diameter view and multiple-waypoint capabilities. Paired with the tracking collar-receiver, it shows a dog’s location from up to 7 miles away, and reports the dog’s status (stopped or direction of movement). The transceiver, designed with SportDOG Brand’s DRYTEK technology, is waterproof and submersible to 25 feet. It can be programmed to track up to 12 dogs at once.
The TEK system is unique in that an e-collar module can be added to the collar unit to also provide training capabilities. However, it is important to note that the additional e-collar function is not allowed during AKC competitions.
To find out more about the TEK system’s capabilities, visit www.sportdog.com.
For more information or clarification about tracking equipment allowed in AKC pointing dog competitions, go to http://www.akc.org/about/depts/perform.cfm
SportDOG Brand of Knoxville, Tennessee, is a manufacturer of electronic dog training gear and accessories. Product lines include remote training collars, no-bark collars, in-ground fence systems and remote tracking systems. The company also carries Lucky Dog training equipment,Tracker dog-locating products and Canine Athlete nutritional products.
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A Warning To Outdoor Users About Echinococcus, From Worms
December 18, 2009
This is a warning to outdoor users about a potentially deadly biological event that could result from one’s curiosity to poke at and kick through scat from wolves, coyotes and foxes. Of course not everyone knowingly does this but many hunters, trappers and simply the curious, want to know what these animals have been eating. Read more
Picture This!
November 7, 2009
With all the great stories, equipment, adventures and people out there I thought it would be great to get some pictures. If you have any pictures from a hunt, your gear or best of all you geared up that would be great. If you send in pictures I will post on our site as well as putting some of the best pictures on all our sites. Things I am looking for, but not limited to.
• Gear: Clothes, utility tools, ATV’s…
• Favorite weapons: guns, bows, sticks, stones…
• Best Duck Blind or Hide…
• You, family or friends dressed for the hunt…
• Where you hunt
All I need is a digital picture in any PC compatible format and a description of the picture. You can make the description as long or short as you would like. If there is a story behind the picture we would love to hear about it.
Send Pictures to:
Todd Krater
U.S. Hunting Today
Managing Editor
todd@ushuntingtoday.com
Note: If you want a picture posted and do not have a digital copy I would be willing to scan it for you. Please contact me for details.
US Hunting Today reserves the right to refuse any picture for any reason as well as edit it where appropriate.
