On Saturday, Sept. 26, 2026, Pennsylvania will observe National Hunting and Fishing Day, a celebration of the Commonwealth’s long‑standing outdoor heritage. Governor Josh Shapiro signed a proclamation highlighting the vital role that sportsmen and sportswomen play in protecting wildlife, preserving natural resources, and supporting rural communities.
Licenses fund conservation
The proclamation notes that more than two million hunters and anglers have contributed over $125 million to Pennsylvania’s conservation programs through the purchase of licenses and permits. Those funds help maintain more than 300 state game lands—over 1.5 million acres across 66 counties—plus the state’s extensive network of public waterways.
Economic impact of the outdoors
According to the American Sportfishing Association, recreational fishing generates a $5.7 billion economic impact for the Commonwealth and supports 32,280 jobs, while also contributing $304 million in state and local taxes. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service estimates roughly 6.4 million hunting trips each year in Pennsylvania, with about 2.1 million taking place on public lands, including the State Game Lands.
Governor’s support for sportsmen
Governor Shapiro, who serves as Democratic Co‑Chair of the Governors Sportsmen’s Caucus, praised the stewardship of Pennsylvania’s hunters and anglers. “Our outdoor traditions come with a responsibility to give back,” said Derek Eberly, director of the Governor’s Advisory Council for Hunting, Fishing, and Conservation. He added that the day “inspires the next generation to carry this legacy forward.”
Recent policy wins
Last year the governor signed bipartisan Act No. 36, repealing the state’s ban on Sunday hunting. The change expands hunting opportunities, bolsters wildlife management, and adds a modest boost to rural economies. PGC Executive Director Steve Smith called Pennsylvania “a top hunting state in the nation,” noting that the Commonwealth ranks second in total license numbers—behind only Texas—and leads the nation in deer‑harvest density.
Public celebration
The Pennsylvania Game Commission will host a free public event on Sunday, Sept. 27, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Middle Creek Wildlife Management Area in Stevens. Attendees can try pellet‑gun shooting, archery instruction, on‑site fishing, and see demonstrations of hunting‑dog handling and deer processing. The event underscores the state’s commitment to family‑friendly outdoor recreation and the conservation ethic that has sustained Pennsylvania’s natural resources for generations.
Legislative recognition
House Resolution 610, sponsored by Rep. Mike Armanini, also honors National Hunting & Fishing Day, recognizing the contributions of hunters and anglers to responsible wildlife management and the Commonwealth’s natural heritage.
With more than a million licensed anglers and nearly a million hunters, Pennsylvania’s outdoor community continues to be a cornerstone of family tradition, personal liberty, and responsible stewardship of the land and water that sustain us all.
Original reporting: WESB (Bradford) — read the source article.
