The fourth Saturday of September, since 1972, has been the day the United States Congress dedicated as National Hunting and Fishing Day; a day of celebration recognizing the indispensable value hunting, fishing and shooting sports delivers to wildlife and fisheries conservation across the fruited plain.

 September 27, 2025 was no different, as the Erie County Federation of Sportsmen’s Clubs (ECFSC) marked the 54^th annual day of celebration, with this family-friendly, and free event was hosted by member club Elma Conservation, located at 600 Creek Road, Elma, NY.  Sunny skies and warm temperatures greeted enthusiastic attendees, as roughly 17outdoors related exhibitors shared their knowledge and expertise to an eager and appreciative public at large.

 Sportsmen’s groups offer special events across the Nation, but the ECFSC celebration is one of a few that offer hand’s on instruction across most disciplines – from traditional archery instruction under supervision of Hawkeye Bowmen, to crossbow handling supervised by the NY Hunter Ed instructors, to an air rifle range operated by TenX shooting, where youths and adults alike gain insight into marksmanship demands, and how to best execute the operation of these implements.  For those attendees age 12 and up, ECFSC experts and certified instructors also offered trap shooting – which simulates the flush of a pheasant – with many trying their luck at wing-shooting.  Elma Conservation provided the range operation and supervision.  The use of 20-gauge shotguns helped reduce recoil that often intimidates youth shooters.  For those who sought to cast a line, members of the Lakeshore Exempt Sportsmen’s Club assisted youths and adults alike, with rods and reels, bait and tackle and pro tips at the ready.

 The Erie County Trappers Association always delivers a great informational exhibit, including how specific traps work, the importance of trapping to help maintain population balance for wildlife that may be destructive if not kept in check, and the fur handling that helps trappers put to good use the animals harvested.  In fact, the Trappers also donated several fox tails to the ECFSC to raffle off to the youth attendees, something that hit a high note with lucky youth raffle winners offered a choice between a rod & reel combo, or a fox tail.  4 lucky winners opted for the trappers’ work, instead of a rod & reel, showing their curiosity and enthusiasm for this outdoors activity.

 The NYSDEC represented the department well, with timely information provided concerning the new crossbow law recently adopted, insight into our myriad of wildlife in WNY, and information for concerned people regarding the Ishua Creek incident near Franklinville.  Sheri Voss, a Lyme Disease prevention expert, also provided a couple informational seminars on Lyme disease and reducing tick exposure, while offering tick first aid kits and tick repellents to the engaged audience.

This event, over time, has grown to become a favorite with those who attend, with many young boys and girls not wanting to leave.  This year, over 350 attended this 6 hour celebration, showing steady growth over the years.

 A special thank you is extended to all those who set up exhibits, and the volunteers and committee members that help make this annual event possible.  And, of course, to Elma Conservation, whose venue is absolutely perfect for this outdoors community oriented event.

 Next years’ event is slated for Saturday, September 26, 2026.  Mark your calendars and come out next year to help us celebrate the importance of conservation that hunting, fishing, trapping and shooting sports helps fund and delivers insight and management to assure the future generations of healthy and abundant wildlife and fisheries, perpetuated forever.