State Representative Robert Smullen is encouraging New Yorkers to recognize National Hunting and Fishing Day, which falls on Saturday, September 27, 2025. The annual event was established in 1972 to highlight the importance of hunting and fishing traditions and their impact on wildlife conservation.
Smullen emphasized the role of licensed hunters and anglers in supporting environmental conservation. “With the weekend fast approaching, I encourage every New Yorker to take a moment to appreciate the history and tradition of hunting and fishing in our state and country and also celebrate the efforts of licensed hunters and anglers whose contributions to environmental conservation are unparalleled,” he said.
He noted that as a lifelong hunter, he has seen firsthand how hunting benefits both the environment and local communities. Smullen referenced his participation in the 17th Annual Venison for Veterans & Seniors event held in April 2025. “I was very proud to join local and state leaders, veterans support groups, county offices for the aging, sheriff’s offices, volunteer fire departments, other agencies and caring members of the community at the 17th Annual Venison for Veterans & Seniors of Fulton and Montgomery Counties back in April of 2025. Year after year, I partner with these many organizations and volunteers to help package and deliver venison to veterans and seniors in need. This past April, we delivered 400 meals across 20 counties in Upstate New York, and it is thanks to our local hunters who contributed the harvested venison that this incredible program is even possible,” Smullen stated.
Smullen also discussed legislative developments aimed at making hunting more accessible. “I was also very happy to have voted ‘yes’ on Assembly Bill A.8330-A earlier this year and to see it pass in the New York State Assembly. This proposal would change the provisions in our state to expand the use of crossbows during the regular hunting season. Crossbows often serve as a safer, more efficient alternative to other hunting instruments for hunters who may have physical limitations or disabilities. This proposal would make hunting more accessible and contribute to the recruitment and retention of new hunters during bow season,” he said.
Upcoming pheasant hunts are scheduled throughout Upstate New York this year; individuals can register through the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation. Updated information about hunting seasons, regulations, safety courses for becoming a licensed hunter is available at the department’s official website.
For those interested in fishing, September 27 is designated as a free fishing day across New York State. Another free fishing day will be held on November 11.
Additional details about National Hunting & Fishing Day can be found at the official event website.
“More than 75% of Americans say they support legal, regulated hunting—not hunting for trophy or for sport, but hunting to put food on the table and support conservation efforts. The truth is, responsible, ethical hunting supports our wildlife, ecosystems and communities. This National Hunting and Fishing Day, get outside if you can and participate in hunting and/or fishing, two cherished American traditions that are some of the oldest in human history,” Smullen concluded.
