Pennsylvania Unveils New Sportsman’s License Plate That Benefits Youth Hunting and Fishing

Why It Matters: On Tuesday, October 1st, the Pennsylvania Game Commission (PGC) and the Pennsylvania Fish & Boat Commission (PFBC), along with the Chairs of the House and Senate Game & Fish Committees (Sen. Greg Rothman; Co-Chair for the Pennsylvania Legislative Sportsmen’s Caucus and Caucus member, Rep. Anita Astorino Kulik. n addition to the bill sponsor, Sen. Wayne Langerholc, Jr., unveiled the new “PA Sportsman” license plate which provides additional funding to the Youth Hunting and Fishing Accounts which assists in the Recruitment, Retention, and Reactivation (R3) of youth sportsmen and women.

Highlights:         

  • The “PA Sportsman” plate was unveiled at the Pennsylvania State Capitol during a press conference at National Hunting and Fishing Day event hosted by the PGC and the PFBC.
  • The specialty license plate sports artwork featuring a fishing scene on a lake, a white-tailed deer, and a ruffed grouse.
  • The plate will cost $40 plus the registration fee, of which $14 will be deposited into a Youth Hunting and Fishing Account which will be allocated evenly to the PGC and the PFBC to be used for the promotion of hunting and fishing activities for youth.

In the United States, participation in sporting traditions has been generally declining since the 1980’s. Sportsmen and women generate billions of dollars annually for the national and local economies and support hundreds of thousands of jobs while hunting license sales provide funding for wildlife conservation and habitat restoration through the American System of Conservation Funding. In response to the declining number of sportsmen and women, state fish and wildlife agencies, conservation organizations, shooting sports organizations, and hunting/fishing/shooting sports industry have invested heavily in recruitment, retention, and reactivation (R3) initiatives. With the introduction of the “PA Sportsman” license plate, Pennsylvanian’s can proudly show other motorists that they are a sportsman or woman while providing some additional funding for youth hunting and fishing programs within the state.

The Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation (CSF) applauds the legislature and Governor Josh Shapiro for passing and enacting this legislation to bring attention to provide critical funding for youth hunting and fishing programs. If you are a resident of the Keystone State, and wish to purchase the “PA Sportsman” specialty license plate, please visit the PennDOT website, choose Special Fund, and select the “PA Sportsman” option.

The Genesis Mini Bow is Worth Checking Out

The Mathews Genesis Mini Bow is a standout choice for young archers, specifically designed for children aged 3 to 8 years. This bow is particularly well-regarded for its ease of use and adaptability, making it an excellent introduction to the sport of archery.

Design and Features

The Genesis Mini features a lightweight design, weighing only 2 lbs, which is ideal for smaller-framed kids. It has an adjustable draw weight ranging from 6 to 12 lbs, allowing young shooters to grow with the bow without needing frequent upgrades. The draw length can be adjusted from 14 to 25 inches, accommodating a wide range of arm lengths as the child grows

Performance

One of the key advantages of the Genesis Mini is its zero let-off cam system, which enables young archers to draw and hold the bowstring with minimal effort. This feature is particularly beneficial for beginners who may struggle with heavier draw weights. The bow’s design promotes proper shooting form, helping kids master basic techniques without becoming fatigued

Ease of Use

Parents and instructors have noted that the Genesis Mini is exceptionally user-friendly. Its simple setup and lack of complicated adjustments make it accessible for both kids and adults guiding them. The bow’s forgiving nature allows for a more enjoyable shooting experience, reducing frustration during practice sessions

Durability

Constructed with high-quality materials, the Genesis Mini is built to withstand the wear and tear associated with youth use. Its robust design ensures longevity, making it a worthwhile investment for families looking to encourage a lifelong passion for archery in their children

Conclusion

Overall, the Mathews Genesis Mini Bow is an excellent option for young archers. Its lightweight build, adjustable features, and user-friendly design make it perfect for introducing children to archery. Whether used in a backyard or at an archery range, this bow promises to provide countless hours of enjoyment and skill development for budding archers.

Visit https://bowhunterssuperstore.com/genesis-mini-bow/

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A Good-Fitting Clays Vest Can Make Your Score Better

The NICA Youth Ambi Shooting Vest is designed to give the youth shooter exactly what they need while enjoying a day at the range. The importance of a well-fitting vest for a young shooter should not be overlooked. The vest should fit snug enough to allow the weight of the shells to be distributed around the waist so as not to interfere with gun mount. The young shooter should be able to easily reach the bottom of the shell pockets so length is important. NICA took all these factors into account when designing this vest.  We love the young shooters and want them to love our sport.

Made with a durable, yet comfortable cotton/poly fabric with a soft polyester mesh, this green shooting vest will wear well and come out of the laundry like new.  The vest features deep, bellowed, double shell pockets that easily hold a box of shells. Add your choice of recoil protection pad to either side of the ambidextrous vest and your youth shooter is ready for a long and enjoyable day at the range. The large back panel makes this green shooting vest a top choice for shooting teams, and it is also available in adult sizing. The NICA Ambi Shooting Vest line can outfit a team of shooters ranging from a youth size Small to an Adult size 3XL!  Call (888-333-6422) or email us for team pricing and embroidery options.

  • Ambidextrous shooting pads with interior recoil protection pocket (pad sold separately).
  • Deep, bellowed shell pockets with snaps at outside corner.
  • Button adjustment on back of waist to help keep weight of shells off your shoulders.
  • Large back pouch for empty hulls or water bottles.

Visit https://nicashooting.com/products/nica-youth-ambi-shooting-vest-green.html

Girls, You Don’t Have to Wear Boys Hunting Pants with Sapelo Hunting Pants Made for You!

The Sapelo Girls Hunting Pants from Lea Avery Gear are designed specifically for young female hunters, combining functionality with a stylish aesthetic. Here’s a detailed review based on their features and performance:

Design and Fit

The Sapelo pants are tailored to fit the unique body shapes of young girls, ensuring comfort during outdoor activities. The design includes an adjustable waistband, which allows for a customizable fit, accommodating growth spurts and ensuring that the pants stay securely in place while moving.

Material and Durability

Made from high-quality, durable fabric, these pants are built to withstand the rigors of hunting. The material is both breathable and water-resistant, providing protection against light rain and moisture while maintaining comfort during extended wear. This durability is crucial for young hunters who may encounter rough terrains and varying weather conditions.

Functionality

The Sapelo pants feature several practical elements:

  • Pockets: Multiple pockets provide ample storage for essential gear, making it easy to carry small tools or snacks.
  • Ventilation: Strategic ventilation helps regulate temperature, allowing for comfort during active pursuits.
  • Reinforced Knees: The reinforced knee areas enhance durability, especially important for activities like crawling or kneeling in the field.

Performance

User feedback highlights the pants’ flexibility and ease of movement. They allow for a full range of motion, which is essential for activities such as climbing or hiking. The fabric’s stretchiness does not hinder mobility, making them suitable for various hunting scenarios.

Style

Available in attractive colors and patterns, the Sapelo pants appeal to young hunters who want to look good while being functional. The stylish design does not compromise on practicality, making them versatile enough for both hunting trips and casual outings.

Conclusion

Overall, the Sapelo Girls Hunting Pants are an excellent choice for young female hunters seeking a blend of style, comfort, and functionality. Their thoughtful design features cater specifically to the needs of girls in the field, making them a worthy investment for any aspiring huntress.

Visit https://leaaverygear.com/products/sapelo-pants

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Shooting Glasses Too Big and Slide Down Your Nose? Check Out the Radian MICROS

Radian’s Micro Shooting Glass offers a 10% smaller frame perfect for youth, ladies or those looking for a smaller frame.

  • Smaller frame suitable for ladies and youth
  • Lightweight design weighing less than 1 ounce
  • 9.75 base lens for wraparound coverage and near perfect orbital seal
  • Provides 99.9% UVA and UVB protection
  • Complies with ANSI Z87.1 standards

Available at https://tinyurl.com/3fshcudv

The Bear Gamekeeper Jr Compound Bow Could Be Your Perfect Fit

The Bear Archery Gamekeeper Jr RTH compound bow, a collaboration between Bear Archery and Mossy Oak Gamekeepers, is a compact and versatile option designed for young archers and those with smaller frames

This Ready-to-Hunt (RTH) package offers convenience and value for beginners and intermediate shooters alike.

Customize your fit with draw weights ranging from 5 to 50 pounds and a versatile draw length of 12 to 27 inches, ensuring a perfect fit for every aspiring shooter.

Design and Construction

The Gamekeeper Jr is built with precision and durability in mind. Its compact size makes it ideal for youth archers or adults who prefer a more maneuverable bow. The bow’s construction reflects Bear Archery’s commitment to quality, ensuring it can withstand the rigors of regular use and varying weather conditions.

Performance

While specific performance metrics for the Gamekeeper Jr are not provided in the search results, we can infer that it likely offers a balance of speed and accuracy suitable for its target audience. The bow’s design suggests it prioritizes ease of use and forgiveness, making it an excellent choice for developing proper form and technique.

Features and Accessories

As an RTH package, the Gamekeeper Jr comes fully equipped with essential accessories, eliminating the need for separate purchases

This typically includes:

  • Arrow rest
  • Sight
  • Quiver
  • Stabilizer
  • Wrist sling

These accessories are carefully selected to complement the bow’s performance and enhance the overall shooting experience.

Versatility

The Gamekeeper Jr’s compact design makes it suitable for various hunting scenarios, particularly in tight spaces or tree stands. Its versatility extends to target practice and competitions, offering young archers a bow that can grow with their skills.

Value

While the exact price isn’t specified in the search results, the Gamekeeper Jr RTH package likely offers good value considering its comprehensive setup. The inclusion of quality accessories from a reputable brand like Bear Archery adds to its appeal for those looking for a complete archery solution.

Conclusion

The Bear Archery Gamekeeper Jr RTH compound bow package presents an attractive option for young archers and those new to bowhunting. Its compact design, ready-to-hunt setup, and Bear Archery’s reputation for quality make it a solid choice for those looking to enter the world of compound bow shooting or upgrade from a more basic model. While it may not offer the high-end performance of adult-sized flagship models, its focus on user-friendliness and growth potential makes it an excellent investment for developing archers.

Visit https://tinyurl.com/3jfwzvcc

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The Heckler & Koch VP9 Handgun Has 27 Unique Configurations to Help Fit Small Hands

The Heckler & Koch VP9 is a highly regarded striker-fired 9mm pistol that offers exceptional ergonomics, accuracy, and reliability. Here’s a comprehensive review of its key features and performance:

Ergonomics and Design

The 9mm VP9 excels in ergonomics, featuring a customizable grip system with interchangeable backstraps and side panels. This allows for 27 different grip configurations, ensuring a near-perfect fit for almost any hand size

The molded finger grooves and texturized grip panels provide excellent control and comfort during extended shooting sessions. The pistol’s controls are ambidextrous, including the unique paddle-style magazine release, which may take some getting used to for those accustomed to button releases2. The slide features both front and rear serrations, enhancing manipulation, while the “charging supports” at the rear of the slide aid in racking for those with reduced hand strength.

Performance

Accuracy: The VP9 is known for its exceptional accuracy. Many users report consistently tight groupings, with some achieving groups under 2.5 inches at 10 yards.

The VP pistols uses the proven P30 steel magazine; 17, 15 and 10-round capacity available.

The longer sight radius and crisp trigger contribute significantly to its precision. Trigger: One of the VP9’s standout features is its trigger. It offers a short, light take-up with a clean break and a short, positive reset. The trigger pull typically measures around 5 pounds, providing a balance between safety and performance. Reliability: The VP9 demonstrates excellent reliability, with many users reporting flawless function through hundreds of rounds without cleaning2. Its striker-fired design contributes to its dependable operation across various ammunition types.

Features

  • Picatinny rail for accessories
  • Polygonal barrel for increased velocity and easier cleaning
  • Loaded chamber indicator
  • Cocked striker indicator

Shootability

The VP9’s soft recoil, excellent trigger, and ergonomic grip make it a joy to shoot for most users. However, some note that the relatively high bore axis can lead to slightly more muzzle flip compared to some competitors

Value

While the VP9 is priced higher than some competitors, many users find the quality, features, and performance justify the cost. It’s often considered a top-tier option in the striker-fired pistol market

Conclusion

The HK VP9 stands out as an exceptional striker-fired pistol, offering a combination of ergonomics, accuracy, and reliability that’s hard to beat. Its customizable grip, outstanding trigger, and consistent performance make it a top choice for both experienced shooters and newcomers alike. While it may come at a premium price, the VP9’s quality and features make it a worthwhile investment for those seeking a high-performance 9mm pistol.

Visit https://hk-usa.com/hk-models/vp9/

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Drake Youth Silencer Bib with Scent Control

The Drake Youth Silencer Bib with Scent Control is a standout choice for young hunters seeking warmth, comfort, and stealth in the field. Here’s a detailed review of its features and performance:

Key Features

  • Material and Comfort: Made from 100% polyester microfiber interlock fabric, the bib boasts a soft yet durable outer layer. The Sherpa fleece backing adds an extra layer of warmth without bulk, making it ideal for long sits during cold weather. Users have noted that the fabric is incredibly quiet, which is crucial for not alerting game while hunting.
  • Scent Control Technology: The inclusion of Agion Active XL scent control technology is a significant advantage. This feature helps to minimize odors, enhancing the chances of a successful hunt by keeping hunters undetected in the field.
  • Design and Fit: The bib is designed specifically for youth, ensuring a comfortable fit that allows for ease of movement. This is particularly beneficial during active hunting scenarios where flexibility is essential.

Performance

Many users have praised the bib’s performance during various hunting conditions. Reviewers highlight its effectiveness in keeping warm during chilly days and its ability to remain silent when moving, which is vital for stealth

The combination of warmth and quietness makes it particularly suitable for treestand hunting, where remaining undetected is key.

Conclusion

Overall, the Drake Youth Silencer Bib with Scent Control is highly recommended for young hunters. Its thoughtful design, effective scent control, and comfortable fit make it an excellent investment for those looking to enhance their hunting experience. Whether sitting in a blind or navigating through dense woods, this bib provides the necessary warmth and stealth to make every outing successful.

Visit https://tinyurl.com/9t34ff2e

Shimano to award up to $30,000 in college scholarships

Students majoring in biology, fisheries, wildlife, or natural resource fields may qualify

Expanding the qualifications to include both graduating high school seniors and those already enrolled in undergrad and graduate programs, Shimano North American Fishing, Inc. will now award up to $30,000 in scholarships as part of its ‘Shimano Varsity’ program. The expansion of the program was officially announced to state DNR professionals and bass club leaders by Shimano Youth Fishing Director Frank Hyla at the biannual B.A.S.S. Conservation Summit held in conjunction with the recent Bassmaster Classic.

“Being one of the cornerstones of our Varsity program, the scholarships provide needed financial assistance to future leaders in conservation, fisheries and wildlife sciences and management,” said Hyla, “where we hope those talents help with work done by state, regional, provincial and national natural resource agencies.”

Along with the scholarships, Shimano’s Varsity Program helps younger anglers learn about fishing tackle and techniques, provides industry networking opportunities at Shimano ‘Career Seminar’ events, and stresses the role anglers have in fishing conservation and advocacy. “Since our program began in early 2017, those anglers participating in our program have been active with the Keep America Fishing Pitch It program keeping used plastic baits out of our lakes and rivers,” said Hyla, “and have picked up thousands of pounds of trash at boat ramps and other areas through our ‘Leave It Better’ projects.”

For their studies beginning in fall 2018, Shimano will award up to fifteen (15) $2,000 scholarships to U.S. and Canadian high school seniors, college undergraduate and graduate students who are members of B.A.S.S., and majoring in biology, fisheries, wildlife or a natural resource related field. A specially selected panel, including Shimano’s Phil Morlock, B.A.S.S. Conservation Director Gene Gilliland, and Chris Horton with the Congressional Sportsman’s Foundation, will determine the scholarship winners. Application forms – with a May 31 deadline – are available on the Shimano website at Shimano Varsity Program Scholarship.

Successful applicants will be notified by July 1. The award is made directly to the student winner and can be used as needed for tuition, textbooks or living expenses.

For more information about on the ‘Shimano Varsity’ program, visit: http://varsity.shimano.com.

At $180, the Iver Johnson Single-Shot 20-Gauge Shotgun is a Nice Starter for Kids

The Iver Johnson youth single barrel shotgun is a reliable and affordable option for young or beginner shooters looking to get into hunting or target practice. This compact firearm offers several notable features that make it an attractive choice for its intended audience.

Performance and Handling

The Iver Johnson youth shotgun delivers impressive performance for its class. When taken to the range, it shoots exceptionally well, with users reporting minimal recoil thanks to an effective recoil pad. This reduced recoil makes it more comfortable for younger shooters to handle, allowing them to focus on their aim and technique without being overwhelmed by the gun’s power.

Versatility and Use

Many owners find this shotgun to be a versatile tool for various hunting applications. It has proven effective for small game hunting, including rabbits, squirrels, and birds like doves and quail. The gun’s manageable size and weight make it particularly suitable for youth hunters or those of smaller stature, allowing them to carry it comfortably in the field for extended periods.

Build Quality and Design

The Iver Johnson youth shotgun is generally well-constructed, with some models featuring good fit and finish that surpasses comparable brands. The gun’s design is straightforward, typically featuring a break-action, single-shot mechanism that is easy for beginners to understand and operate safely.

Value and Recommendation

The Iver Johnson youth single barrel shotgun is frequently praised as an excellent starter firearm for young shooters. Its affordability, combined with its reliable performance, makes it a popular choice for parents introducing their children to shooting sports or hunting. Many owners express satisfaction with their purchase, often keeping the gun in their collection even as they progress to more advanced firearms.

  • 20ga Youth single barrel shotgun
  • Same as the IJ70020-18 with a 1 inch shorter stock
  • Accepts up to a 3″ shell
  • 18″ smooth bore barrel with interchangeable chokes
  • Single Action
  • Blade front sight
  • Black chrome matte receiver and barrel
  • Youth size walnut checkered stock and smooth forend
  • Folds in half for easy transport and storage
  • Sling swivels on the stock and the forend
  • Single extractor to pull out the shell
  • Functioning hammer
  • Internal firing pin rest which keeps the hammer from resting on the firing pin when un-cocked
  • Chokes included: #1 Full, #3 Modified, and #5 Cylinder
  • Length of pull: 13″
  • Overall length: 32.5″
  • Weight unloaded: 4lbs. 12oz.

In conclusion, the Iver Johnson youth single barrel shotgun offers a solid entry-level option for young shooters and hunters. Its manageable recoil, versatility, and affordable price point make it a worthwhile consideration for those looking to introduce youth to the world of shotgun shooting and hunting.

Visit https://iverjohnsonarms.com/store/p91/IJ70020Y-18_20ga_Youth.html

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