NDGF Mule Deer
By Doug Leier
If you’re an optimist, it’s worth looking ahead to 2026. If you’re a pessimist, you may figure there’s worse news coming as we turn the calendar. I’ve never thought much about whether hunters or anglers tend to be more glass half full or empty.
I’d argue the value in both reflecting on last year but looking forward to 2026. The turning of the calendar is a reminder that the cycle of seasons continues, and with each turn, hopes and expectations for what lies ahead reset. As 2026 approaches, those hopes for North Dakota’s wildlife and wild places are once again top of mind.
Weather then and now dictates much of the story of North Dakota’s outdoors and wildlife. A delayed start to winter followed by an early spring would be preferred. Less snow and more moderate temperatures would allow animals to conserve energy and emerge from the season ready for whatever comes next.
The heart of the outdoors lies in habitat. When habitat is lost, wildlife is lost. Optimistically, an increase in habitat on the landscape that supports wildlife throughout the year is hoped for in 2026. Glass half empty may hope for something as basic as no net loss of habitat.
Good spring nesting cover for pheasants and deer fawns is needed. A good fawning spring for deer, especially badlands mule deer, would be a welcome sign of recovery after recent setbacks.
A strong pheasant hatch would be another reason for optimism as 2026 begins. The annual roadside counts will give a glimpse of what’s to come in fall, and after some recent ups and downs, an encouraging spring crow count report would be a bright spot.
That’s the weather and habitat. Off the field in the arena the value hunters and anglers play is a critical role, and supporting initiatives like the Meadowlark Initiative and Private Land Open To Sportsmen program and other conservation efforts is key.
The future of hunting and fishing in North Dakota needs hunter and angler engagement. As license sales and participation rates have shown, the next generation of outdoor enthusiasts isn’t guaranteed. That’s why the Game and Fish Department is committed to R3 efforts – Recruiting, Retaining and Reactivating hunters and anglers. It’s hoped that in 2026, more experienced hunters will mentor someone new.
Finally, it is important to be vigilant on the water. No new problems with aquatic nuisance species are hoped for in 2026, but hope is not a strategy. The spread of zebra mussels and other invasives is a real and present danger to lakes and rivers. Every boater, angler and waterfowl hunter has a role to play. Following the “Clean, Drain, Dry” protocol is the best defense, and it’s a small price to pay to protect aquatic resources.
Optimism is important when it comes to North Dakota’s outdoors. But being optimistic doesn’t mean ignoring the hard work ahead. These hopes for 2026 are achievable, but they depend on everyone doing their part. It’s hoped for the best from Mother Nature and that people work for the rest. Good luck out there.
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