Celebrating NHF Day 2025 at WOW

Published September 1, 2025

National Hunting and Fishing Day (NHF Day) is more than a celebration of outdoor traditions. It’s a tribute to the conservation legacy built by ethical hunters and anglers around the country. As the home of NHF Day, Wonders of Wildlife takes pride in honoring this legacy by connecting our guests to the natural world, inspiring stewardship, and showcasing the vital role responsible outdoor recreation plays in protecting our ecosystems.  

In the 1960s, hunters and anglers embraced the era’s heightened environmental awareness but were discouraged that many people didn’t understand the crucial role sportsmen played – and continue to play – in the conservation movement. The first to suggest an official day of thanks to sportsmen was Ira Joffe, owner of Joffe’s Gun Shop in Upper Darby, Pennsylvania. In 1970, Pennsylvania Governor Raymond Shafer adopted Joffe’s idea and created “Outdoor Sportsman’s Day” in the state. 

With determined prompting from the National Shooting Sports Foundation, the concept soon emerged on the floor of the U.S. Senate. In early 1972, Congress unanimously passed both bills. On May 2, 1972, President Nixon signed the first proclamation of National Hunting and Fishing Day, writing, “I urge all citizens to join with outdoor sportsmen in the wise use of our natural resources and in insuring their proper management for the benefit of future generations.”  

At WOW, we are proud to bring this legacy to life through engaging exhibits and educational outreach. 

You can do your part today by committing to being a #GuideToOutside and taking the pledge, not just on NHF Day, but all year long. Whether it’s volunteering, mentoring young hunters and anglers, or simply spending time in nature, your actions make a difference. 

Celebrating NHF Day with us is easy! On Saturday, September 27, and Sunday, September 28, 2025, WOW is hosting a special NHF Day and Native American Heritage Celebration. Enjoy hands-on activities, educational booths, and family-friendly fun highlighting the importance of outdoor traditions and conservation.

After your visit to our NHF Day event, come inside and visit the International Game Fish Association’s Fishing Hall of Fame and the Bass Fishing Hall of Fame exhibits to learn about legendary anglers and their impact on aquatic conservation. These exhibits showcase the stories, gear, and achievements that have shaped sportfishing and stewardship.  

While you’re here, celebrate the legacy of ethical hunting with a visit to the Boone and Crockett Club’s National Collection of Heads and Horns, an inspiring tribute to conservation pioneers. Then, explore Bucks and Bulls, featuring world-record whitetails and a life-stage display that honors their role in America’s hunting heritage. These exhibits are a must-see for visitors who value wildlife, tradition, and conservation. 

Support your dedication to NHF Day and our mission year-round by becoming a Wonders of Wildlife member! Your membership helps fund conservation initiatives, educational programs, and habitat restoration efforts, ensuring future generations can enjoy the outdoors. 

Our WOW School programs offer immersive educational experiences for youth and families. From wildlife biology to sustainable fishing practices, these programs inspire the next generation of conservationists.  

Join us in celebrating NHF Day and help protect the wild places we all cherish. Every visit, pledge, and shared experience strengthens the bond between people and nature!