hunting and fishing influencers

Top Outdoor Industry Influencers Shaping the Hunting and Fishing World in 2025

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Hunting and fishing were once simply considered hobbies. Today, with better gear, a bigger push for conservation, efforts to get more folks involved, these “hobbies” are definitely evolving. But one of the biggest differenced in today’s outdoor activities is that social media Influencers are now information sources, showing followers the ropes on everything from DIY outdoor tips to in-depth information on various species of game.

Top Social Media Influencers In Outdoor Industry

We’ve pulled together our picks for some of the top outdoor influencers, looking at their reach, how they connect with their respective audiences, and the fresh ideas they bring to the outdoor lifestyle.

1. Steven Rinella (@stevenrinella)

steven rinella meat eater

Steven Rinella has over 1.3 million followers on Instagram, and it’s easy to see why with his MeatEater brand. As a guy who’s written bestsellers, he covers topics like prepping wild game, doing things the right way when harvesting, and looking after the land—often out on public spots, chasing elk or whatever’s in season. What sets him apart is how he combines scientific information with hands-on know-how, turning tricky ideas like protecting habitats into something that just makes sense.

2. Cameron Hanes (@cameronrhanes)

cam hanes

With close to 1.8 million on Instagram, Cameron Hanes mixes serious running endurance with hardcore bowhunting. You’ll see him pushing through tough backcountry days, putting gear through the wringer, and sharing logs that mix training with hunting plans. He’s all about showing how getting in shape amps up the whole experience. In 2025, his take on building mental toughness fits right in with the rise of blending wellness into outdoor life.



3. Eva Shockey (@evashockey)

eva shockey

Eva Shockey shakes things up with her 560,000+ Instagram crowd, championing women and families who get involved in the great outdoors. She blends whitetail chases with everyday tips and mom life, making the outdoors feel more welcoming. She’s often focuses on featuring outdoor brands and gear that works for everyone.

4. Randy Newberg (@randynewberghunter)

Randy Newberg

Randy Newberg has 158,000 followers on Instagram and a solid YouTube following of around 270,000, making him the guy for sticking up for public lands and do-it-yourself hunts out West. He breaks down regulations, inexpensive ways to gear up, and mapping tips and tricks to make chasing big game doable for regular people.

5. The Hunting Public (@thehuntingpublic)

The hunting public

This crew’s pulling in 734,000 YouTube subscribers with down-to-earth takes on whitetail and turkey hunts on public ground. What they’re doing is proving you don’t need expensive gear and private land to bag game. They mix action packed hunting with heavy doses of humor, making them a favorite of many in the outdoor industry.



6. Robert Terkla (LunkersTV)

robert terkla lunkers tv

Robert Terkla’s holding down over 2 million on YouTube with fishing challenges, road trips, and family outings. Coming from the military to full-time angling, he mixes laughs with solid advice, sparking ideas on gear and fishing tactics.

7. Andrew Flair (@andrew_flair_outdoors)

Andrew Flair

Andrew Flair has nearly 3 million subscribers on YouTube, sharing fishing trips, hunts, and farm life, zeroing in on gear and lures. He touches on everything from small ponds to big lakes, dishing real takes that entertain the outdoors crowd.


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8. Jon Barzacchini (@jonbrollin)

Jon Barzacchin lakeforkguy

Jon B.’s drawing 1.7 million YouTube subscribers with exciting gear checks and trip logs. He spans states with tips on tools and tricks, making it all feel grand but doable. His in-depth guides shape how folks tackle different setups. With 2025 leaning into gadgets like smart baits, his breakdowns keep everyone in the loop.

9. Deer Meat for Dinner (@deermeatfordinner)

Deer meat for dinner

This duo’s channel has over 2 million followers covering hunting adn fishing trips with a big nod to from-field-to-fork ways. They share tips on keeping things sustainable, whipping up wild meals, and living the outdoor life. They are big on DIY hunting and fishing.

10. LakeForkGuy (@lakeforkguy)

justin rackley lakeforkguy

Justin Rackley, better known as LakeForkGuy, has 1.2 million tuning in for bassfishing content. He roams from streams to lakes, weaving learning with scenery. He tosses in filming tips with the how-tos, sparking others to create.

11. Hannah Barron (@hannahbarron96)

Hannah Barron

Hannah Barron, the self-proclaimed Catfish Girl from Alabama, is straight-up dominating with around 2 million followers on Instagram and close to a million subscribers on YouTube.

She’s got that raw, get-your-hands-dirty energy, whether she’s noodling massive catfish bare-handed in murky rivers, bowhunting deer in the woods, or just sharing her everyday Southern adventures. Her posts mix thrill-seeking with practical tips on gear and techniques, all delivered with a genuine twang that pulls in a ton of younger fans, as well as women who might not have thought this world was for them.

What really stands out is how she makes it all look fun, busting myths about outdoor sports being too tough or exclusive.

Top Outdoor Industry Social Media Influencers Recap

These people go beyond posting—they’re guardians pushing for smart ways to enjoy the great outdoors.

In the ever-changing world of outdoor sports, hunting and fishing keep drawing in crowds by blending timeless skills with fresh ideas. These voices have stepped up as key players in the outdoor industry, not just sharing their adventures, but also by promoting fair chase and conservation.

Social media has definitely made it easier than ever to dive in, mixing outdoor adventure with even political pressure to keep public lands protected. This has also changed the way outdoor brands connect with their audiences.

If you happen to be an outdoor brand looking to tap into this group’s dedicated following, teaming up with a Global Influencer Marketing Agency could really help connect with the right crowd.

Who would you add to this list?

 

best fly fishing destinations two men fly fishing

Best Fly Fishing Destinations To Add To Your Bucket List

Some fishing trips are worth planning years in advance. For fly anglers, there are rivers, lakes, and flats that stand out because of the quality of fishing, the setting, and the overall experience. These locations often combine reliable fisheries, knowledgeable guides, and comfortable lodges in locations that feel far removed from everyday life.

But what defines a true bucket-list fishing destination? Well, that depends on each angler’s preferences and the species of fish they want to pursue. Still, for a trip to feel truly memorable, an all-inclusive, lodge-based experience is hard to beat.

Often guide-led and set on productive local waters, these trips offer a balance of comfort, service, and serious angling – without the guesswork of planning every detail. Whether you’re wading a shallow flat for bonefish, drifting a wild river for trophy rainbows, or stalking sea-run browns in remote estuaries, these are fishing adventures that stand the test of time.

From Alaska’s salmon-filled rivers to Patagonia’s legendary trout waters, and from bonefish flats in the Bahamas to the remote atolls of the Seychelles, certain destinations stand out as true bucket-list experiences. This guide highlights when to go, what species to target, and how lodge-based trips can make your adventure unforgettable.

Wild Trout an Salmon In Alaska – Lodge Based Fly Fishing

Alaska remains one of the most varied and productive fisheries in the world. Bristol Bay’s rivers and lakes hold all five Pacific salmon species, trophy wild rainbow trout, Arctic char, and grayling. The Naknek River is famous for its large rainbows, while the Kvichak delivers consistent action for salmon and trout from June through fall.

alaska fly fishing man holding salmon

On the Kenai Peninsula, lodges provide access to prolific salmon runs and big resident rainbows. Daily float trips, jet boat runs, and walk-and-wade options make this area a strong choice for anglers who like to mix techniques or who are seeking a more active adventure.



Patagonia’s Rivers and Lakes – Trophy Trout Lodges

man holding huge brown trout

Further south, Santa Cruz Province is known for its big stillwaters, including Lago Strobel (better known as Jurassic Lake) where rainbow trout can reach remarkable sizes. While access here is limited to a small number of outfitters, across Patagonia there are many more lodges offering diverse programs that combine lake and river fishing.

At the southern tip in Tierra del Fuego, the focus shifts to sea-run brown trout. From January through April, fishing is available to target these powerful fish as they enter the Rio Grande and other rivers, and experienced guides help anglers adapt to the subtle changes in conditions that can make all the difference.

Bahamas – Saltwater Flats Fly Fishing

The Bahamas are one of the world’s classic flats destinations, with islands like Andros and Abaco offering endless shallow waters that hold strong populations of bonefish. These flats are often within sight of your lodge, making for easy daily access and plenty of time on the water.

bonefish in bahamas

Lodges range from simple, family-run operations to full-service resorts, but the focus is always on clear water, sight-fishing, and the thrill of spotting tailing bonefish across wide, open flats.


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Seychelles – Remote Fisheries and Various Species

The Seychelles offer one of the most unique saltwater fly fishing experiences in the world. Remote atolls hold bonefish, giant trevally, milkfish, triggerfish, and Indo-Pacific permit – species that demand quick, accurate casts and strong tackle.

seychelles fly fishing man with fish

While fishing is possible year-round, the prime window is October through May, when lighter winds and calmer seas provide the best access to the flats. During the southeast monsoon from June to September, stronger winds can make travel and fishing more challenging. Alphonse Island is a notable exception, offering year-round fishing thanks to its more sheltered location.

When To Take Your Fly Fishing Trip

fishing lodge
  • Alaska (Jun–Sep) – From Bristol Bay to the Kenai systems, all five Pacific salmon species return during summer, fueling the ecosystem. June is the prime time for king salmon, while August and September bring big rainbow trout and Arctic char feeding heavily behind spawning salmon. Early and late in the season can also mean fewer anglers on the water.
  • Patagonia (Nov–Apr) – Across southern Argentina and Chile, rivers such as the Limay and Aluminé see long summer days, steady insect hatches, and trout feeding actively on the surface. Lakes and spring creeks add variety, and the austral summer offers the most reliable conditions for anglers targeting wild browns and rainbows.
  • Bahamas (Oct–Apr) – This is the most reliable season for flats fishing, with stable weather, comfortable temperatures, and good light conditions. Bonefish are the main draw across islands like Andros and Abaco, with occasional opportunities for permit and tarpon, depending on the area.
  • Seychelles (Oct–May) – While some destinations like Alphonse operate year-round, the most reliable fly-fishing season across the Seychelles’ outer atolls runs roughly from October to mid-May. The calmer northwest monsoon during this period brings steadier, lighter wind and better casting conditions, ideal for targeting species such as bonefish, giant trevally, milkfish, triggerfish, and Indo-Pacific permit 

Tip: traveling just before or after peak season often means fewer people and lower costs, with good fishing still available.



How To Choose Your Fly Fishing Lodge

A bucket-list fly fishing trip isn’t just about the fishing – it’s about finding the right destination and lodge to match your style. When evaluating options, consider:

  • Species Focus – Do you want variety (salmon, trout, grayling) or a single target (like sea-run browns)? Some lodges specialize narrowly, while others offer daily variety.
  • Guiding Philosophy – Are you seeking one-on-one coaching, or do you prefer a more independent style where guides simply put you in the right spot?
  • Accessibility – Fly-out lodges in Alaska or boat-access atolls in the Seychelles can add adventure, but also cost and complexity. If convenience matters, look for road-access lodges near regional airports.
  • Lodge Experience – Some focus on rustic authenticity, others on luxury comforts. Decide whether you want fine dining and spa options, or a simpler camp that maximizes fishing time.
  • Sustainability & Conservation – Increasingly, lodges are adopting catch-and-release policies, habitat projects, and community partnerships. Supporting these operations ensures the fishery remains world-class for the future.

Mistake to avoid: Don’t choose a destination only for its trophy-size catch potential. A memorable fishing trip is about more than just the size of the fish. The quality of guides, the variety of water, and even non-fishing amenities often play a bigger role in how enjoyable the experience will be.



How To Communicate Directly With Fishing Lodge Owners Worldwide

Don’t choose a destination only for its trophy-size catch potential. A memorable fishing trip is about more than just the size of the fish. The quality of the fishing guides, the variety of water, and even non-fishing amenities often play a bigger role in how enjoyable the experience will be. 

Whether your dream is chasing salmon in Alaska, stalking trout in Patagonia, or wading the tropical flats of the Bahamas or Seychelles, the right lodge can turn a good trip into an unforgettable one. 

Sites like Fishing Explora offer offers a curated selection of premium fly fishing lodges and destinations worldwide, where members can directly contact lodges to plan their next adventure with confidence.



Now Get Out There!

We hope we have provided helpful info for you to assist in making your decision of where to take your next bucket list fly fishing adventure. Remember, be sure to consider the species of fish you’re after, the location, the timing and the lodge preferences before packing up and heading out.

Happy fishing and we hope you put a hook N1!




bikepacking adventure

Bikepacking Essentials That Will Transform Your Trail Adventures

When you think seriously about bikepacking, it means you have to learn to move beyond just strapping camping gear to your bike.

However, you don’t need to break the bank stocking up on high-dollar bikepacking gear. What’s more important is to be sure you don’t overlook the basics that can improve your ride quality, safety, and overall experience on your next trail adventure. So, with that in mind, here are some bikepacking essentials to consider before your next ride.

Get Everything Ready in Advance

bikepacking on mountain road

Before you decide to go for another bikepacking adventure, there are a few things you should consider. For instance, experienced riders understand that rim width affects tire performance, safety, and comfort when loaded with gear and moving through technical terrain. 

Because of this, it is crucial for any serious bikepacker to learn how to measure rim width. Riders will typically guess at compatibility or refer to marketing literature, but measuring your true internal rim width with digital calipers provides the exact measurements to choose the ideal tire for your type of adventure.

Similarly, having tubeless tires is vital because the liquid sealant within tubeless tires automatically seals minor punctures from thorns, glass, and jagged rocks, so you don’t find yourself stranded on the side of the road wishing you, well, had tubeless tires.



Bikepacking Essentials

Here are some bikepacking essentials to have before your trip:

  • Find the perfect sleeping system to maximize your bikepacking adventure. A good mix of a quality sleeping bag, pad, and shelter will determine whether you wake up refreshed, or exhausted. Modern sleeping systems offer a balance of packability and weight without sacrificing comfort. Using a wide sleeping pad (24+ inches) is recommended, as it ensures the quality of sleep by supporting natural sleeping postures. Plus, who wants to sleep on a skinny, little pad anyway?


  • When on a bikepacking adventure, you want to be sure you have a way to effectively purify water. Water purification systems now come with huge filter bags so you can easily access the water in remote places. Be sure to go with a water purification system that offers a large opening to make it easy to refill from various sources – one with a double-opening system is even better, as it allows you to manage drinking and filtering with ease.


  • To address the charging or powering of any electronic devices on your bikepacking trip, be sure to pack a power source. A 24,000mAh power bank can power devices for days, and there’s no need for expensive dynamo systems unless traveling to highly remote locations.


  • Be sure to carry a multi-tool with you on your bikepacking trip. Having the right repair and tool setup can totally turn a trip-ending mechanical problem into just a minor hassle. Today’s multi-tools mix bike-specific repairs with some general handy stuff. Just be sure to have a solid bike multi-tool with a chain breaker, tire levers, spare tubes, and patch kits.
multi tool for camping
  • Get the right frame bag. A frame bag puts your heaviest, densest loads (spare parts, tools, batteries, food) where they should be: low in the bike’s center of gravity and in the frame triangle. This way, instead of fighting top-heavy instability on technical terrain, your bike exhibits natural behavior. You can still lift the front end over obstacles, balance at low speeds, and corner safely rather than continually compensating for clumsy weight transfers.


bikepacking in mountains

Now That You Have Your Bikepacking Essentials…

These bikepacking essentials work synergistically to enhance your experience. The trick is to spend money on tried-and-true, resilient gear, as opposed to just finding the cheapest options. With quality bikepacking gear, you can spend time enjoying the exploration of God’s Creation, as opposed to fiddling with inferior gear.

Now, get out there and experience that stunning scenery and activities that make bikepacking a rich form of adventure travel.

Safe riding!