Hunting season is officially underway for Michigan residents with the start of archery season.
The season will run from October 1st through the end of the year, only pausing for firearm season from November 14-30. During these times only bow and arrows will be permitted for use.
According to the Department of Natural Resource's 2023 harvest survey, only 80,000 people participated in archery season last year. This is in comparison to the over 500,000 people across the state who obtained a deer license.
Andrew Comtois is one of the hunters participating in archery season. He said that he prefers to use his bow over a rifle due to the challenge and therapeutic qualities.
"With a bow you have to do, a lot more scouting," Comtois said. "For me it's just more rewarding being a successful hunter with a bow than with a rifle. It comes down to the proficiency with it."
Comtois also runs Outdoor Driven, a nonprofit that helps veterans struggling with post traumatic stress go on fishing and hunting trips. He said they have a trip scheduled at the end of the month, specifically for archery.
