Today’s outdoor news includes a new youth pheasant hunt in Western New York, updated South Atlantic red snapper dates, changing fire and camping restrictions, and a reminder to wear a life jacket after a fatal Lake Norman kayaking incident. Check the local rules and closures before you head out.

Hunting and Seasons

• New York DEC announced a youth-only pheasant hunting weekend for Western New York on October 10 and 11, 2026. Youth hunters must be ages 12 to 15 and accompanied by an experienced adult mentor. About 1,480 adult pheasants will be stocked in DEC Region 9, and special permits are required for the hunts at Joseph Davis, Golden Hill, and Wilson-Tuscarora State Parks. Read the New York DEC announcement.
• DEC will accept trapping permit applications starting October 1 for Oak Orchard, Tonawanda, and John White Wildlife Management Areas. Applications run through November 30. Trappers should follow posted signs because utility construction is underway at John White and Tonawanda. Read the New York DEC trapping update.

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Fishing and Regulations

• NOAA Fisheries set the 2026 federal recreational red snapper season in the South Atlantic for October 9 through 11. Eligible participants in Florida, Georgia, and South Carolina may have extended seasons under exempted fishing permits through October 22. A possible December season has not been confirmed. Read the NOAA Fisheries red snapper announcement.
• NOAA Fisheries said the Atlantic Bluefin Tuna General category commercial fishery will close at 11:30 p.m. local time on September 24 and reopen October 1 with a default one-fish daily or trip limit. This action does not affect recreational fishing. Read the NOAA Fisheries closure notice.

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Wildfire and Fire Restrictions

• The South Zone of Oregon’s Malheur National Forest moved to Seasonal Public Use Restrictions and Industrial Fire Precaution Level I on September 23, with fire danger rated low. Recent precipitation reduces the chance that small sparks will ignite fuels, but dry or rotten wood can still burn. Read the U.S. Forest Service update.
• Nebraska National Forests and Grasslands designated dispersed camping spots on the west side of Forest Service Roads 7158 and 7170 near the Pinnacles camping area south of Wall, South Dakota. Camping is not allowed on the east side because strong winds can push debris or large objects over the wall. Read the U.S. Forest Service camping restriction notice.

Trail and Access Closures

• Yosemite National Park reported that the Dome Fire had reached 3,795 acres and was 15 percent contained as of September 23. The Chilnualna Falls trail, trails toward Buena Vista and Crescent Lakes from the top of the falls, Ostrander Trail, and areas south of it remain closed. Read the National Park Service fire update.

Water Safety

• A 61-year-old North Carolina man drowned in Lake Norman while trying to help his sister after her kayak capsized. The N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission reminded boaters to wear a life jacket. Read the Independent Tribune report.

Gear Recalls

No significant updates today.

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