Recreation License Sales Continue to Grow in Michigan

Hunting and fishing license sales in the state show a strong and growing outdoors culture. According to the state’s Michigan Wildlife Council over 640,000 people purchased hunting licenses. And over 1 million fishing licenses were sold this year as well. Out of state license purchases increased over 10 percent from 2020 for both hunting and fishing. The number of women hunters and anglers was also up in the state this year.First time license purchases continues to trend downward in Michigan, though purchases for first time licenses were up this year compared to 2019 numbers.

11.2 billion dollars of economic activity in the state is a result of the outdoors industry in the state. And accounts for 171,000 jobs in the state according to a 2019 study by the Michigan united conservation clubs.

The pandemic showed increases in outdoor activity in the state, and the industry continues to grow. The increase in license purchases means further funding for the Michigan Department of Natural Resources to continue their mission of conservation around the state. As the department’s conservation efforts rely heavily on license purchases and excise taxes from the sale of hunting and fishing equipment.