Senate guiding bills to provide data, prevent poachers from guiding

lschultz • May 22, 2023

Senate Bills 103 , 104 , 105 Quick Hits:

  • Currently, Michigan has little regulation for inland hunting and fishing guides.
  • Nothing stops someone from guiding who has been convicted of egregious wildlife violations.
  • Guide data reporting would be required to help manage our natural resources.

Commercial guiding regulation has been a priority of the conservation community for almost a decade, and MUCC membership first saw the need for reform in the late 1990s.

Currently, Michigan’s commercial guiding industry is largely unregulated. A regulatory framework would prevent poachers and other bad actors from posing as legitimate guides while providing new critical tools to law enforcement and biologists alike.

Allowing someone who can no longer hunt because they were found guilty of poaching to guide hurts hunters and conservationists, said Amy Trotter, MUCC executive director.

“Certain, egregious wildlife violations should and would preclude someone from enjoying our natural resources and wildlife as a guide,” Trotter said. “Our wildlife laws are in place to protect our wildlife species and ensure bountiful opportunities for all Michiganders. ”

She said that data reporting from guides would be a critical component of wildlife resources management moving forward as state agencies become more strained.

“No one knows the resources better or cares for it more than Michigan guides. We need their help to manage better and ensure that our wildlife and habitat continue to thrive tomorrow for the next generation,” she said.

During the 2021-2022 legislative session, HB 5358-5360 received near unanimous support from the conservation community but ultimately got no further than to the house floor with a light legislative schedule in an election year.

Data gathering should be a critical part of any legislative package. Guides are on the water and in the field more than anyone and sometimes host hundreds of clients yearly. The data these guides provide to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources will help to better manage our species in a proactive and timely manner.

This package of bills requires a minimum entry requirement to protect Michigan’s rich outdoor heritage and the important economic contributions of Michigan’s hunting and fishing guides.

Common sense exemptions respect private landowners and hunting and angling recruitment efforts for nonprofits like MUCC.

Requirements of the bill

  • $150 three-year registration fee for residents; $300 for non-residents.
  • Existing charter captains operating with a US Coast Guard license are exempt from the registration fee.
  • Data reporting is required, similar to what is required currently on the Great Lakes and connecting waterways.
  • All commercial guides must possess: a valid base hunting ($11) or fishing license ($26); must be CPR and first aid certified, and have a state identification card or driver’s license.
  • A person must not have been convicted of any felony or certain fish and game violations in the past three years.

 

Recent Posts

By Justin Tomei March 13, 2025
March 2025 NRC Recap
By Olivia Triltsch March 13, 2025
Blanchard’s cricket frog plays both roles of predator and prey within the ecosystem, influencing other species populations from both sides.
By Tyler Mehigh March 11, 2025
Michigan United Conservation Clubs (MUCC) proudly honored outstanding individuals and organizations for their dedication to preserving Michigan’s natural resources at the 2025 Conservation Awards Banquet. The annual event recognizes those who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, advocacy, and service to conservation. Ron Olson – 50 Years of Service to Conservation Award With a remarkable career spanning five decades, Ron Olson has made a lasting impact on Michigan’s parks and outdoor recreation. As Chief of the Parks and Recreation Division for the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, Olson expanded the state park system, enhanced trail programs, and secured significant funding for infrastructure improvements. His leadership has shaped the future of Michigan’s outdoor spaces for generations to come. Ron Burris – President’s Award A dedicated leader within MUCC, Ron Burris played a pivotal role in restructuring the organization’s governance, ensuring a more effective policy and executive board structure. His efforts in promoting conservation education, community engagement, and safety initiatives—such as increasing AED availability in clubs—have strengthened MUCC’s impact across Michigan. Senator Sam Singh & Representative Graham Filler – Conservation Legislators of the Year Recognized for their bipartisan leadership in securing $1.9 million in funding for the Elsie Dam removal, Senator Singh and Representative Filler have demonstrated a commitment to conservation and ecological restoration. Their advocacy ensures the protection of Michigan’s waterways, fish habitats, and public safety. Grand Valley Cap N Ballers – Affiliate of the Year With a long-standing tradition of promoting historical shooting sports and conservation, Grand Valley Cap N Ballers (GVCNB) has been a key supporter of MUCC’s mission. Hosting major regional events and fundraisers, GVCNB has played a crucial role in supporting MUCC’s conservation efforts while preserving Michigan’s outdoor heritage. Mike Avery – Conservation Communicator of the Year A leading voice in outdoor media, Mike Avery has dedicated his career to educating and inspiring Michigan’s outdoor enthusiasts through his popular radio show and podcast, Mike Avery’s Outdoor Magazine. By spotlighting conservation leaders and critical environmental issues, Avery has significantly contributed to public awareness and advocacy for Michigan’s natural resources. MUCC extends its heartfelt congratulations to all award recipients for their outstanding contributions to conservation. Their dedication ensures that Michigan’s natural heritage remains protected for future generations. For more information on MUCC’s conservation efforts, visit mucc.org .
More Posts
Share by: