The Latest

Soft plastics may have drawn much of the attention at ICAST 2026, but lure makers also unveiled an impressive collection of new hard baits. Here are nine crankbaits, topwaters, swimbaits and other hard-bodied lures that caught the attention of Hook & Barrel.

Tactacam’s new REVEAL 4.0 cellular trail cameras promise twice the battery life, interchangeable FlexPack power and improved image quality. Here’s what hunters need to know about the REVEAL X 4.0 and Pro 4.0, including prices, specifications and early impressions.

Learn how to work a frog across grass, pads and open water, avoid setting the hook too soon and choose the right tackle—plus see some of the strangest topwaters bass will attack.

The reborn Ruger Red Label III faced improvised flying targets and six practical 25-yard pattern tests with target, upland and turkey loads.

Rock-solid stability, endless customization, and rugged construction make this one piece of outdoor gear built to stand the test of time.

A velvet buck is a rare whitetail trophy because most bucks shed before season opens. These destinations give hunters some of the best early-season odds.

Urchin baits generated much of the buzz at ICAST 2026, but they weren’t the only new soft plastics worth watching. These 10 introductions include finesse worms, swimbaits, forage imitators and designs built specifically for forward-facing sonar.

Urchin baits have been in use across the Pacific for the best part of two decades, but in 2026 they truly arrived on these shores.

Nearly eight Colorado mountain miles and an 80-pound sandbag reveal where the KUIU ICON 6 3500 improves—and why it's built for any backcountry expedition.

In an exclusive interview with Hook & Barrel, Aaron Lewis explains why his new album Give My Country Back is the most honest record of his country career.

Keeping your fluid levels balanced can make or break an expedition out into the backcountry. Experts explain why choosing the right hydration system is so important.

The best bass fishing rod is not always the most expensive or most specialized. For many anglers, it is the rod that can handle the widest range of bass techniques without forcing them to carry a dozen setups.

Wild game is popping up everywhere, from Joe Rogan to the diet plans of top athletes. But its emergence in American culture is more nuanced than celebrity exposure; it’s at the very heart of an American food revolution.

What was once considered niche Americana is now global, aspirational, and ready to claim a spot in high fashion’s evolving landscape.

Hot summer days can cut a fishing trip short fast. Here’s how to stay cool while fishing with the right clothing, sun protection, shade and hydration plan.

Folds of Honor has launched a limited-edition America 250 apparel collection, with proceeds supporting scholarships for families of fallen or disabled service members and first responders.

The Langdon Tactical CZ P-09 F Nocturne elevates an already great pistol with a superb trigger, custom refinements, and a Holosun EPS-RD-6 optic.

From Voyageurs to Bighorn Canyon, these underrated national parks deliver fishing, hunting, hiking, history and wild American scenery without the usual crowds.

Starlink, GPS apps, and satellite devices have made the backcountry safer than ever. But some outdoor experts warn that constant connectivity may be dulling the instincts and traditional skills the wilderness still demands.

Ticks are more than a nuisance. From Lyme disease and alpha-gal syndrome to anaplasmosis, ehrlichiosis and rare viruses, these tickborne diseases deserve every outdoorsman’s attention before the next hunt, hike or fishing trip.