New president and CEO at Backcountry Hunters and Anglers: Ryan ‘Cal’ Callaghan

Missoula, Mont. — Backcountry Hunters and Anglers announced on Friday, Oct. 31 that its board of directors has selected Ryan Callaghan as the group’s new president and CEO.

Effective Jan. 1, 2026, Callaghan replaces Patrick Berry, who left the job in July after an 18-month tenure. Land Tawney previously had held the post for more than a decade.

Well known for his work as director of conservation with Steve Rinella’s Bozeman, Mont.-based outdoors media company Meateater, Callaghan has been an outspoken public lands and hunting rights advocate for years. He’s the former chair of BHA’s North American Board, and a BHA press statement said he also will maintain a professional working relationship with Meateater.

“This is a best-case scenario for BHA,” said Chris Jenkins, chair of BHA’s North American board of directors. “Cal has been a steadfast voice for public lands and conservation for years. His leadership, authenticity, and deep connection to the hunting and angling community make him the perfect person to guide BHA into its next chapter.”

Callaghan will continue to host his weekly Meateater podcast, Cal of the Wild, and periodic video content and support MeatEater’s technical hunting apparel company First Lite as a brand ambassador.

Callaghan, who recently embarked on a coastal grizzly bear hunt in Alaska, called himself “beyond excited to join BHA full time and kick ass on behalf of our wild public lands, waters, and wildlife.”

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He said North America’s public properties, and access to them, has motivated and guided him throughout his life, from a seasonal employee and guide into his professional career, and as a BHA volunteer.

“I’m committed to building on the momentum of the incredible BHA community as a nonpartisan voice leading the charge for conservation. In the months ahead, I’ll focus on empowering our members, expanding our reach, and strengthening partnerships across the political spectrum that drive real conservation results. Our community is strongest when we rise above division and stand united for the public lands and waters that define us. Together, I know we can secure lasting wins for wildlife, habitat and access. MeatEater will remain a key part of my life, and I’m proud to continue representing the brand and its audience as we work toward these shared goals,” he said.

The Minnesota Chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers issued a statement expressing its support of the choice and said it looks forward to Callaghan’s leadership.

“There’s no bigger voice in conservation or a stronger defender of our public lands and wild places than Ryan,” said Chance Adams, Minnesota BHA chapter chair. “Whether it’s potential mining in the BWCA watershed or massive public land sell-offs, Ryan has the grit and determination to stand up for our public lands.”

Lukas Leaf, executive director of Minnesota-based Sportsmen for the Boundary Waters also gave the Callaghan selection a thumbs-up.

“The Boundary Waters is not only a world-class fishing and hunting destination; it also plays a critical role in the ongoing fight for America’s public lands, waters, and wildlife. At SFBW, we’ve long valued BHA’s partnership in advocating for the Boundary Waters’ long-term protection, and look forward to continuing that critical work with Ryan Callaghan in his new position as BHA president and  CEO,” Leaf said.

Learn more about Backcountry Hunters & Anglers at backcountryhunters.org.