Hunting Competition is Increasing, Study Says
Contrary to recent trends, the sale of hunting licenses may have actually gone up last year, according to the National Shooting Sports Foundation. The foundation reported a 3.5 percent rise in sales, the first major increase in nearly 20 years.
While there is speculation over why the sale of hunting licenses increased last year, some people say the recession is a contributing factor. With unemployment rates soaring all over the country, people have more time to go hunting and are more likely to take the less-expensive route of acquiring meat by going out and killing it themselves.
The NSSF’s study looked at the sale of hunting licenses in 11 states, including Oregon, New York, New Jersey, Florida, North Carolina, Louisiana, Tennessee, Minnesota, Indiana, Texas, and Utah. Nine of the states reported an increase in sales during 2009.
Have you purchased or renewed your hunting license for 2010 yet? Requirements, costs and duration vary from state to state. If you don’t know where to start, check out the “Licenses, Permits and Registrations” page on your state’s website, or ask someone in your local Parks and Recreation department for help.
Many hunting and fishing licenses can also be bought along with hunting gear at local sporting goods and outdoor supply stores. There are often even discount and free licenses available for senior citizens, long-time residents, and those with disabilities. As always, be sure to employ responsible hunting practices.
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