Weekly Hunting and Fishing Updates May 3, 2025

Welcome to our weekly roundup of the latest developments in the hunting and fishing world. This week, we bring you a comprehensive overview of regulatory changes, record-breaking catches, economic insights, competitive tournaments, and upcoming season adjustments. From Oklahoma’s new hunting regulations to a massive carp catch and exciting fishing opportunities in Ohio, there’s plenty to explore for outdoor enthusiasts.

Oklahoma Tightens Regulations for Non-Resident Hunters

Non-Resident License Fees (Selected, Before and After July 1, 2024):

License Type	2023 Fee	2024 Fee	Increase
Annual Hunting License	$175	$209	$34
Deer License (Archery/Gun/Muzzleloader)	$300	$501	$201
Land Access Permit (OLAP, WMAs)	$0	$200	$200

Non-residents planning to hunt in Oklahoma should budget for these additional costs, potentially exceeding $700 for a deer hunt, and check requirements at the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation to ensure compliance. These changes have sparked discussions in hunting communities, with some expressing concerns about affordability and access .

Oklahoma Angler Sets New State Record with Invasive Carp

On April 26, 2025, Bryan Baker, an angler from Oklahoma, made headlines by catching a bighead carp weighing 118 pounds, 10 ounces on Grand Lake O’ the Cherokees, breaking his own state record set in 2023 . This massive catch, snagged rather than baited, surpassed his previous record by 7 ounces and highlights the ongoing challenge of managing invasive species in Oklahoma’s waters. Bighead carp consume large quantities of zooplankton and aquatic insects, threatening native fish populations.

The Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation (ODWC) encourages anglers to remove bighead carp and report catches to aid research and management efforts. Baker’s achievement not only sets a new benchmark but also contributes to conservation by reducing the invasive population. The ODWC shared the news on social media, noting Baker’s role in addressing this environmental challenge, Anglers interested in targeting invasive species can find more information on reporting catches at the ODWC website.

USFWS Proposes Expanded Access with Teal Hunt Adjustment

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) is proposing to expand hunting and fishing opportunities on its lands, potentially opening more public areas for outdoor recreation . This initiative aims to enhance access for hunters and anglers while maintaining conservation goals. However, a concurrent proposal to end the early teal hunt on a Minnesota refuge has raised concerns among waterfowl hunters, as it could limit opportunities during the early season.

These proposals reflect the delicate balance between providing recreational access and protecting wildlife populations. The potential end of the teal hunt in Minnesota may spark debate, as teal are a popular game bird, and early season hunts are valued by many hunters. Outdoor enthusiasts are encouraged to follow updates from the USFWS and provide feedback during public comment periods to influence these decisions.

Ohio Boosts Fishing with Saugeye Stocking and Record Bass

Ohio’s fishing scene is thriving with two notable developments. First, Grand Lake St. Marys is set to be stocked with saugeyes, a hybrid of walleye and sauger known for their aggressive fight and culinary appeal . This stocking effort is expected to enhance fishing opportunities, drawing anglers to the lake for a chance at these popular fish. Saugeyes thrive in a variety of conditions, making them an ideal addition to Ohio’s fisheries.

Second, an angler in northeast Ohio caught a largemouth bass weighing nearly 9.5 pounds, dubbed a “unicorn” for its exceptional size. This catch underscores the quality of Ohio’s reservoirs and has excited the fishing community. While not a state record—Ohio’s record largemouth bass is 13.13 pounds, caught in 1976—this fish is a trophy by any measure and may inspire anglers to pursue similar giants. For comparison, largemouth bass over 8 pounds are considered rare in most regions.

Iowa’s Walleye Season Opens with High Expectations

The walleye fishing season opens on May 3, 2025, in Iowa’s Great Lakes, marking a significant event for anglers . Walleye are prized for their taste and the challenge they present, requiring skill and patience to catch. The Great Lakes region, including lakes like Spirit Lake and Okoboji, is known for its robust walleye populations, attracting fishermen from across the Midwest.

Anglers can employ various techniques, such as trolling with crankbaits or jigging with live bait, to target walleye. The season’s opening is expected to see increased boat traffic as enthusiasts take to the water.

Southwick Report Highlights Economic Power of Outdoor Sports

A new report by Southwick Associates reveals that hunters and anglers spend billions annually, significantly contributing to the U.S. economy. This spending supports jobs in retail, hospitality, and conservation, as well as funding wildlife management through license fees and taxes on equipment. The report underscores the broader impact of hunting and fishing, which go beyond recreation to drive economic vitality in rural and urban communities alike.

For example, the purchase of fishing tackle, hunting gear, and travel-related expenses creates a ripple effect, supporting small businesses and local economies. Conservation programs, funded in part by these activities, help maintain healthy wildlife populations and habitats. This economic insight highlights the importance of sustaining hunting and fishing opportunities for future generations.

IGFA Walker’s Cay Shootout Showcases Competitive Fishing

The inaugural IGFA Walker’s Cay Shootout, held from April 23-26, 2025, in the Bahamas, brought together anglers for a thrilling billfish release tournament (Visit St. Augustine). This multi-species event, focusing on catch-and-release practices, promoted conservation while offering competitive excitement. Held in the pristine waters of Walker’s Cay, the tournament attracted participants from around the world, competing for top honors.

Such events highlight the global appeal of fishing and the importance of sustainable practices. The emphasis on releasing billfish, like marlin and sailfish, ensures that populations remain healthy for future generations. Anglers interested in similar tournaments can explore opportunities listed at Visit St. Augustine or other fishing event directories.

Upcoming Hunting Season Changes Across States

As the 2025-2026 hunting seasons approach, several states have announced regulatory changes that hunters should note:

• Colorado: The state is implementing changes to over-the-counter archery hunting for non-residents, potentially affecting license availability and draw odds. Regular rifle seasons will also see adjustments (Colorado Outdoors Online).
• West Virginia: Minimal changes include liberalizing antlerless deer bag limits in parts of Clay and Nicholas Counties to one deer without a permit, and increasing the limit in Hancock County to three (WV MetroNews).
• Washington: New rules for 2025-2026 cover deer, elk, and waterfowl seasons, with clarifications on special closures and firearm restrictions (Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife).
• Pennsylvania: The state has shortened the archery bear season from three weeks to one and adjusted the extended firearms season for antlerless deer to address chronic wasting disease (Pennsylvania Game Commission).

These changes reflect efforts to manage wildlife populations, address diseases like chronic wasting disease, and balance recreational opportunities. Hunters should consult their state’s wildlife agency for detailed regulations to ensure compliance.

Summary of 2025-2026 Hunting Season Changes:

State	Key Changes
Colorado	Changes to non-resident OTC archery and rifle seasons
West Virginia	Liberalized antlerless deer bag limits in select counties
Washington	Updated rules for deer, elk, waterfowl, and special closures
Pennsylvania	Shortened archery bear season, extended firearms season for antlerless deer

Conclusion

This week’s roundup showcases the dynamic nature of the hunting and fishing world, from Oklahoma’s regulatory shifts and record-breaking carp catch to Ohio’s fishing enhancements and national economic insights. The IGFA Walker’s Cay Shootout and upcoming season changes further highlight the excitement and responsibility of outdoor pursuits. Whether you’re planning a hunting trip, casting a line, or following conservation debates, stay informed and safe in the great outdoors.

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