Hook & Hunting: New Law Expands Access for Youth Hunters

Governor Snyder signed off on a bill Thursday that will expand access to hunting for young Michiganders.

The bill sponsored by Northern Michigan State Representative Triston Cole allows children under 10 to be able to hunt on public land, as long as they are supervised by an experienced guardian.

The previous law only allowed children under 10 to hunt on private land.

Many believe the now expanded Mentored Youth Hunting Program could help with the recent decline in hunting numbers statewide.

“It will definitely help it out, basically the earlier you start hunting shows a lot more responsibility for your child. As long as they have proper training, hunting is safe,” Gun Store Owner Robert Anderson, said.

Representative Cole says the bill is about opening up opportunity for young people across the state.