A Brief BHA History III: Taking The Initiative and Raisin’ Hell “This is why BHA was built. For this opportunity. For this fight!” Taking the initiative. That’s how Backcountry Hunters & Anglers (BHA) got started over twenty years ago.[1] It’s why the “Gang of Seven” stood around that southern Oregon campfire during March 2004 and brought our BHA tribe into existence.[2] They were anticipating (i.e., hoping for the best, but preparing for the worst) this moment, when our great public lands ...

A Message from BHA President & CEO Patrick Berry   Public land is as American as Mom’s apple pie and the stars and stripes. It’s woven into the fabric of our history, culture, and principles of democracy. It’s the place where generations of hard-working Americans have pursued their passions for hunting and fishing, nurtured an enduring conservation ethic, and found solace from the rest of life.  The concept that our shared resources can be managed in a collaborative and cooperative manner to ...

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This article originally appeared as the President's Message column of the Summer 2024 Backcountry Journal.   By Patrick Berry Imagine the excitement and anticipation after a long week of work as you load up the jon boat and head out to one of your favorite hunting or fishing spots. It’s going to be a glorious day, you think to yourself. On the drive, you might ruminate about the grudge bass that you hooked a couple of times but couldn’t bring to the net, or the time you took your two young ...

Full digital issues of the Backcountry Journal are available to BHA members. Check out a preview below, or click here to join BHA. Already a member? Click here to log in.