Senate passes commercial guiding legislation

lschultz • June 8, 2023

The Michigan Senate, on a bipartisan vote, passed stakeholder-led commercial guiding legislation Thursday morning.

Commercial guiding in Michigan is woefully unregulated – nothing currently exists in statute to prevent serial poachers from posing as legitimate guides. Senate Bills 103 , 104 , SB 105 aim to address that, though still need to pass through a House committee and floor vote.

During the 2021-2022 legislative session, MUCC authored a detailed breakdown of the identical house legislation. MUCC has joined many affiliates, particularly the Michigan Hunting Dog Federation and Michigan Steelhead and Salmon Fishermen’s Association, and existing guides in pushing for and refining this proposal over many years. 

This legislation is necessary to protect Michigan’s natural resources from bad actors while collecting important harvest and effort data, says MUCC chief executive officer Amy Trotter.

“The need for this legislation has been on MUCC’s radar since the late 1990s.” Trotter said, “We must weed out serial poachers posing as legitimate guides. This legislation checks all the boxes, ensures the integrity of Michigan’s commercial guiding industry, and collects important information to manage our natural resources scientifically.”

This legislation would set a low barrier to entry for an individual looking to guide. These requirements include a $150 fee for a three-year license, no violations of certain game laws within the last three years, no felonies and the guide must hold a base license or fishing license. 

The bipartisan package, sponsored by Senators John Cherry (D-Flint), SeanMcCann (D-Kalamazoo), and Kevin Daley (R-Lum), now goes to the house which is expected to begin work on the legislation after the summer break. 

Trotter hopes that 2023 is the year this legislation passes.

“2023 seems to be shaping up to be the year we finally cross the finish line.” Trotter said, “The legislation continues to enjoy broad stakeholder consensus and bipartisan support, with all sides clearly understanding the need for this bill package.” 

Stayed tuned to MUCC for updates on the legislation. 

To ensure our natural resources remain protected and managed thoughtfully and our outdoor heritage defended, join Michigan United Conservation Clubs today: http://bit.ly/JoinMUCC .     

Recent Posts

OTG Volunteers Needed in Crawford County Tree Plantings

By Olivia Triltsch • April 16, 2026
MUCC’s On the Ground (OTG) will be in the northern lower peninsula in late spring to improve habitat for wildlife. Volunteers are needed on Saturday, April 25th, from 8 AM to 12 PM and Saturday, May 3rd, from 9 AM to 2 PM to plant trees across Crawford County. These projects will take place rain or shine, except in the event of severe weather, so please dress accordingly. All registered volunteers will receive lunch and a free appreciation gift for their efforts.

White Oaks vs Red Oaks: Why Does It Matter?

By Olivia Triltsch • April 9, 2026
Oaks are a critical tree species for wildlife in Michigan as they provide food, cover, and long-term habitat in forests, field edges, and public lands. Both red oaks and white oaks are native to Michigan, but there are differences in management between the species, making an impact on conservation and hunting success. The growth patterns are important to understand when planning for land management due to variation in growth, acorn production (mast), and wildlife use.

On the Ground: Brush Piles and Grassland Enhancement in the Traverse City FMU

By Olivia Triltsch • April 2, 2026
Volunteers Enhancing a Rare Ecosystem
More Posts