Tuesday, June 23rd, 2026

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Tuesday, June 23rd, 2026

Breaking News for

Sportsmen Since 1968

Bill Hilts Jr.

Bill Hilts, Jr.: Take advantage of the Erie Canal’s outdoors fun

I’m always amazed at the fact that more people don’t utilize the Erie Canal for the outdoor resources that this over 200-year-old waterway possesses.
The canal itself stretches from Buffalo to Albany for 351 miles before it hooks up with the Hudson River to allow for passage to New York City. As the adage goes, take time to smell the roses regarding this historic marvel. 

Bill Hilts, Jr.: Take advantage of the Erie Canal’s outdoors fun Read More »

Veto override brings deer hunt for junior hunters to New York’s Erie County

Junior hunters age 12 and 13 years old can now legally hunt deer with firearms and crossbows in New York’s Erie County after the Erie County Legislature overrode County Executive Mark Poloncarz’s veto of the law that would allow the age group to hunt with a licensed mentor. The vote took place May 28.
“Today’s vote is a victory for Erie County families and for the future of our outdoor heritage,” said Jack Coad, president of the Erie County Federation of Sportsmen’s Clubs.

Veto override brings deer hunt for junior hunters to New York’s Erie County Read More »

Bill Hilts, Jr.: Focusing efforts on the future with youth fishing

As we approach National Fishing and Boating Week (set this year for June 6-14), as well as the prospects of summer weather, this is the perfect time to start thinking about youth fishing opportunities.
Getting the next generation of anglers in tune with our water resources is critical for the future of this popular pastime. Sometimes it’s time to hit the reset button. One prime example of refocusing energy and funding sources is the Greater Niagara Fish Odyssey Derby that was held for 50 years in Western New York.

Bill Hilts, Jr.: Focusing efforts on the future with youth fishing Read More »

Big king salmon wins grand prize at New York’s spring LOC derby

One could say Joe Yaeger of East Amherst, N.Y., was simply in the right place at the right time. However, to understand Yaeger and his approach to salmon fishing, one must look at the big picture.
For the short version, Yaeger, fishing with his brother Paul Yaeger, of Grand Island, reeled in a 24-pound, 5-ounce king salmon on May 7 while fishing the Niagara Bar to win the Spring Lake Ontario Counties Trout and Salmon Derby’s $15,000 Grand Prize.

Big king salmon wins grand prize at New York’s spring LOC derby Read More »

New York waters of Lake Ontario: A salmon angler’s ‘Kingdom’

Let’s face it, fishermen and women on Lake Ontario have become spoiled. If the fishing isn’t off the charts, then it’s disappointing for many.
That’s what it seemed like in 2025 when things started off a bit slower than normal for king salmon fishing on the lake, especially to the west where rod-bending is nearly constant for some anglers all spring long. However, when it was all said and done, the salmon action caught up.

New York waters of Lake Ontario: A salmon angler’s ‘Kingdom’ Read More »

Encore coming off a record-breaking walleye year for New York’s Lake Erie anglers?

New York’s portion of Lake Erie was unbelievable in 2025 when it came to walleye catching.
It set the all-time mark for catch rates in the history of record keeping conducted by the state’s Department of Environmental Conservation DEC. Anglers pursuing old marble eye were left chuckling and shaking their heads as many filled their six-fish limits in record time on the water, day after day.

Encore coming off a record-breaking walleye year for New York’s Lake Erie anglers? Read More »

New York Outdoor News’ Great Lakes preview: Amazing fisheries continue to produce

When it comes to freshwater fishing in New York State, the best one-two combination in the Empire State, as well as the Great Lakes, if not the country, is the dynamic duo of Lake Ontario and Lake Erie. While they both share many kinds of fish species, the headline acts are quite different.
On Lake Ontario, the “king” is the Chinook salmon.

New York Outdoor News’ Great Lakes preview: Amazing fisheries continue to produce Read More »

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