Dan Cabela was born and raised in Sidney, NE and was introduced to conservation, hunting, and fishing by his father at a very young age. This early introduction took hold as now 200+ days in the field each year is now common. Whether in the cornfields of Iowa or the mountain tops of Ethiopia, participation with and around wildlife is a prime objective.
Living in these outdoor moments has defined his connection to nature. A strong faith in nature has strengthened his view that hunting and responsible resource use are critical methods for conserving wildlife. He is the host of “Hard Truths of Conservation”, a television series which airs on Discovery Channel and Animal Planet and is dedicated to teaching the masses about sustainable use through hunting and conservation.
Dan graduated from the University of Texas in 1992 with honors, achieving a Bachelor of Arts degree. He has worked and participated in the outdoor arena for most of his life. He is currently the Executive Director of the Cabela Family Foundation which aims to build and create partnerships and projects which promote outdoor recreation, conservation and charity toward others.
Dan and his wife Darlene live on their ranch in Dripping Springs, TX where they raise endangered and at-risk species such as Dama Gazelle, Kenyan Mountain Bongo, Addax, Nile Lechwe, and others. They also own and operate Asante Lodging and Events, a best-in-class, short-term-stay venue which borders their ranch.
He and his wife Darlene are now in their 3ist year of marriage. They have three wonderful children, and the entire family is active in outdoor and wildlife participation.
Other Active Positions:
Director US Sportsman’s Alliance (2016-Present)
Ivan Carter Wildlife Conservation Alliance Board Member (2019-Present)
Boy Scouts of America Philmont Ranch Conservation Committee Member (2018-Present)
Wild Harvest Initiative Communications Committee (2020-Present)
Board Member Dallas Safari Club Foundation (2023-Present)
Director of Dallas Safari Club (2021-2023)
Weatherby Foundation Board Member (2021-Present)
Safari Club International Conservation Committee (2024-Present)
BSA National Executive Board Member (2018-2023)
BSA Foundation Trustee (2018-2023)
Life member of Safari Club International, Dallas Safari Club, National Wild Turkey Federation, Texas Trophy Hunters Association, Sportsmen Alliance, Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, Wild Sheep Foundation, Back Country Hunters and Angles, the NRA and a standing member of Texas Rifle Association