State celebrates Hunting and Fishing Day virtually

OLYMPIA -- The state Department of Fish and Wildlife is celebrating National Hunting and Fishing Day all month long with a virtual event each day in September.

“In previous years, we’ve worked with volunteers, sponsors, and conservation partners from across the state to host in-person events for hundreds of youth and their families. Participants learn about hunting, fishing, shooting sports and conservation,” agency Hunter Education Division Manager Dave Whipple said. “This year, we are celebrating National Hunting and Fishing Day virtually, all month long.”

Each day, Fish and Wildlife will release a new event or activity.

The first week of September’s activities highlighted amphibians, pollinators, salmon, archery, hunter education, elk, and turkeys.

Opportunities spanned from do-it-yourself activities like making a turkey call and backyard pollinator activities to video demonstrations about hunter education.

“We hope that families will join us in learning about the outdoors and follow along with us for the whole month of September,” Whipple said. “This is an opportunity to learn about hunting, fishing, and conserving Washington’s wildlife and places, and you can even participate at home.”

In 1971, Congress unanimously authorized National Hunting and Fishing Day on the fourth Saturday of every September. On May 2, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon signed the first proclamation of the annual celebration.

In 2019, Gov. Jay Inslee proclaimed Sept. 28 as Hunting and Fishing Day in Washington.