From Florida’s black bear season decision to nationwide hunting regulation changes, here’s what every outdoorsman should know. In this episode, we dive deep into today’s historic Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission vote on reinstating the black bear hunting season. Mark Lance joins us to explore the science-based wildlife management strategies behind the proposal, the surge in Florida’s bear population, and how public sentiment—often driven by emotion—shapes these debates. We examine historical bear management in the state, evolving bear hunting methods such as baiting and the use of dogs, and what the commission’s decision could mean for conservation. The conversation then shifts to nationwide hunting and conservation policy updates, including the reauthorization of Wisconsin’s Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Fund for public lands, Wyoming’s open-door approach to public legislative input, and new regulations improving hunter access across the Northeast. We highlight state-level changes such as Maryland’s approval of artificial lights for deer recovery, New York’s inclusion of crossbows in archery season, and New Hampshire’s decision to allow air rifles for big game hunting. We also cover the proposed Wisconsin season for sandhill cranes, the SHARKED Act’s approach to shark depredation, and the importance of sportsmen staying engaged with legislative processes. Whether you hunt, fish, or simply care about wildlife management, these updates will keep you informed on the policies shaping the great outdoors. Get the FREE Sportsmen’s Voice e-publication in your inbox every Monday: www.congressionalsportsmen.org/newsletter Sign up for FREE legislative tracking through CSF’s Tracking the Capitols tool: www.congressionalsportsmen.org/tracking-the-capitols/ Follow The Sportsmen’s Voice wherever you get your podcasts: https://podfollow.com/1705085498 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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“What did the council decide on item 42?” — answered with the speaker and the moment.

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