Fall hunting seasons are getting underway in New York, public access is expanding on wildlife refuges, NOAA has announced a new Pacific halibut fishing period, and fire and trail restrictions remain important to check before you head out. Here is your latest outdoor news roundup, filtered to items dated within the last 48 hours.

Photo credit: nps.gov | National Park Service

Hunting and Seasons

• New York early big game seasons: The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation says early bear season began September 12 in 11 Southern Zone wildlife management units. Early antlerless deer season runs September 12 through September 20 in 23 units, including 10 units with expanded access. For the early antlerless season, hunters may use Deer Management Permits or Deer Management Assistance Program tags. Read the full update from New York DEC.
• Wildlife refuge access expansion: The Interior Department announced expanded hunting and sport fishing access across 107 wildlife refuges and four fish hatcheries, including 14 refuges and three hatcheries opened for the first time. Spectrum News has the details.

Prepare for your next season with the Hunting and Fishing collection.

Fishing and Regulations

• Pacific halibut: NOAA announced a sixth 2026 Area 2A non-Tribal commercial halibut fishing period from September 15 at 8:00 a.m. through September 17 at 6:00 p.m. The vessel limit is 5,000 pounds, with an estimated 37,450 pounds remaining. See the notice from NOAA Fisheries.
• Greater Atlantic cost recovery: NOAA updated cost-recovery rules for tilefish IFQ, scallop IFQ, and surfclam and ocean quahog quota programs. Bills under $25 will be waived going forward, and billing and due-date timelines were updated. NOAA Fisheries outlines the changes.

Stock up for your next trip in the Fishing Accessories collection.

Wildfire and Fire Restrictions

• Deschutes National Forest: Stage 1 public-use fire restrictions prohibit open fires across most of the forest through November 30, with limited designated-site and fuel-type exemptions. Check the order from the U.S. Forest Service before using a stove or campfire.
• Mendocino National Forest: A Lucas Fire emergency closure runs September 11 through September 20 and covers specified roads, trails, campgrounds, and OHV trails. Review the U.S. Forest Service closure notice before traveling in the area.

Trail and Access Closures

• Great Smoky Mountains National Park: Hazel Creek Trail is closed from Campsite 83 to the intersection with Welch Ridge Trail. Several campsites are also closed, and the park lists additional trail cautions. Check the National Park Service conditions page before your hike.

Water Safety

No significant updates today. As always, check conditions, carry reliable communication, and wear your personal flotation device when you are on the water.

Gear Recalls

No significant outdoor gear recalls today. The current CPSC pressure-washer warning was not an outdoor recreation gear recall.

Featured Gear: Protect your eyes during the season with the in-stock, active Crossbow Suppressor 2X Kit.

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