Backcountry Hunters & Anglers (BHA) is a leading nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving and enhancing the rights of hunters and anglers to access and enjoy public lands and waters in North America. Founded in 2004, BHA advocates for the protection of wild, remote, and rugged landscapes that are vital for wildlife, including fish and game species. The organization focuses on areas that are less accessible to the general public—backcountry areas—where hunters, anglers, and outdoor enthusiasts can experience nature in its most pristine form.

One of BHA’s key goals is to ensure that public lands, which make up a significant portion of the United States’ natural landscape, remain protected from development and exploitation. BHA works to keep these lands open for hunting, fishing, and recreational activities, recognizing that public access to these areas is essential for future generations of outdoor enthusiasts.

The organization places a strong emphasis on the ethical management of wildlife and habitat, promoting responsible and sustainable practices in hunting and fishing. BHA’s advocacy efforts center on protecting wildlife habitat, restoring degraded ecosystems, and ensuring that the principles of fair chase are upheld in all hunting and fishing practices. BHA also works to combat threats to public lands, such as oil and gas drilling, mining, and other forms of industrial development that harm wildlife habitats.

As part of its conservation efforts, BHA actively lobbies for legislative change to secure protections for public lands and to ensure that hunting and fishing rights remain protected. The organization advocates for policies that prioritize the preservation of wild places and for actions that support the management and restoration of these areas. By engaging with policymakers and government agencies, BHA plays an essential role in shaping conservation policy at local, state, and federal levels.

BHA is also dedicated to building a community of passionate hunters and anglers who care deeply about the future of wild spaces and wildlife conservation. The organization encourages members to take an active role in the protection of public lands by participating in volunteer efforts, conservation projects, and fundraising events. Through these efforts, BHA not only raises awareness but also fosters a culture of stewardship and responsibility among its members.

The group is especially focused on engaging younger generations in conservation efforts and educating them on the importance of protecting public lands for future hunting, fishing, and recreational use. BHA’s educational programs help teach the next generation of outdoor enthusiasts about ethical hunting and angling techniques, wildlife conservation, and the challenges facing public lands in today’s ever-changing world.

BHA's commitment to public lands and ethical outdoor practices is also reflected in its advocacy for broader environmental issues. The organization stands at the forefront of efforts to combat climate change, protect water quality, and safeguard wildlife corridors. By engaging in these broader environmental issues, BHA works to ensure that wild lands are preserved for the benefit of all species, including humans.

One of the cornerstones of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers is its emphasis on accessibility. The organization believes that all Americans should have access to wild places, regardless of their background, socioeconomic status, or experience level. BHA works to ensure that these lands are not just protected but also made available for those who seek to experience them in an authentic and sustainable manner.

With a growing membership base across the U.S. and Canada, Backcountry Hunters & Anglers continues to serve as a powerful voice for the protection of wild spaces and the rights of hunters and anglers. By advocating for public access, wildlife conservation, and responsible outdoor practices, BHA remains at the forefront of efforts to protect the backcountry areas that are vital to both wildlife and outdoor enthusiasts.

Through its advocacy, community-building, and educational efforts, Backcountry Hunters & Anglers ensures that the wilderness remains a place of adventure, solitude, and natural beauty for generations to come.