Hunting is big in Michigan, well at least in terms of the sheer number of folk who take to the woods come the fall season. According to the National Shooting Sports Foundation, Michigan ranks third in the nation for the number of residents who hunt (721,000), behind Texas and Pennsylvania respectively. This number, as set out in the 2006 National Survey of Fishing, Hunting and Wildlife-Associated Recreation: Michigan, represents 18% of the state's population.

Compare this to the 77% percent of the Michigan population who watch wildlife and 33% who fish.

While an impressive stat, the number of people who hunt in the state (both residents and otherwise) has actually gone down over the last 15 years. In 1996, 934,000 people hunted in the state, whereas 753,000 people hunted in the state in 2006.

Who is the Typical Michigan Hunter?

The Michigan hunter is hard to define in that he comes from all different areas of the state, both rural and urban. That being said, some things hold true for the typical hunter. For the most part, hunting is a middle-aged, white-man's sport in Michigan. For instance, the average age of the mid-western hunter is 41 and only a very small percentage of hunters in the state are Hispanic, black or female.

Where and How Often Do Most Michigan Hunters Hunt?

Michigan hunters typically spend about 16 days a year hunting and most hunt on private land. The numbers breakdown as follows: 50% hunt on private land only, 16% hunt on public land only, and 33% hunt on both.

What Animals or Game Do They Hunt?

According to that same 2006 National Report, 95% of Michigan hunters hunt big game (95% deer, 95% elk, 11% turkey).

In fact, according to Deer and Deer Hunting, the state ranks third in the nation for number of total deer hunters. The state ranks even higher (second) for the number of deer harvested each year, as well as second for the number of deer harvested from bow hunters.

The hunting of other game in the state breaks down as follows: Thirty percent of hunters hunt small game (17% rabbit, 6% grouse/prairie chicken, 12% squirrel, 9% pheasant), and 8% of the hunters in the state hunt migratory birds.

Can Children Hunt?

According to the Families Afield: Revised Youth Hunting Report, Michigan's youth hunting restrictions are some of the most restrictive in the nation; so much so, that fewer children may be taking to the sport than in years past. In fact, according to the report, Michigan's hunter replacement ratio is ranked last in the nation.

That being said, children of all ages can hunt in the state provided they meet specific, age-defined requirements. In short, the requirements basically ensure that children obtain the age-appropriate license or safety certification and are accompanied by a properly licensed and experienced adult.

Where is the Best Place to Live in Michigan to Take Advantage of Hunting & Fishing?

For those Michiganders for whom hunting is more than a part-time hobby, there are several places to live within the state that take advantage of nearby fishing and hunting. There is one town, however, that consistently ranks high on the Outdoor Life list of best towns in the nation for hunting and fishing: Marquette, Michigan. In fact, Marquette ranked second on Outdoor Life's 2009 list.

Where Can I Get More Information About Michigan Hunting?

For specific information about Hunting in Michigan, including information about seasons, licenses and other requirements, check out the Pure Michigan Huntwebsite.