September 24, 2022 8:00 a.m. 

Saturday is National Hunting and Fishing Day throughout the United States.

A release from the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife said the day was first established in 1972 and is celebrated on the 4th Saturday of every September to recognize hunters and anglers for their contribution to fish and wildlife conservation.

Last year alone, hunters and anglers generated $90,223,780 to support conservation efforts of ODFW through their purchases of hunting licenses, tags and permits.

The release said they generate additional funding for conservation and outdoor access through their purchase of hunting and fishing equipment including firearms, ammunition, archery equipment, fishing rods, boats and boat fuel.

Federal excise taxes paid on purchasing this equipment are apportioned back to states in what’s known as the Wildlife and Sport Fish Restoration Program. In place since the late 1930s, the program funds fish and wildlife management, scientific research, habitat restoration and protection, land and water rights acquisition, hunting and boating access and outdoor education.

ODFW said combined with wildlife viewing and other activities like hiking, overall outdoor activities in Oregon contributed $5.3 billion to the state’s economy according to the Bureau of Economic Analysis.

Fishing opportunities are available all year in Oregon and the state’s most popular hunting seasons are soon to kick off this fall, including buck deer season on October 1st.

Information to get started fishing, or hunting gamebirds or big game is available at www.myodfw.com.