Trio of bills aims to provide oversight of commercial guiding in Michigan

lschultz • January 10, 2022

By MUCC Policy Assistant Justin Tomei, jtomei@mucc.org

Michigan United Conservation Clubs has worked for more than six years through the Michigan Legislature to enact commercial guiding oversight in Michigan. This legislation has been amended several times since its original form, and it is a good starting point for making sure outdoor enthusiasts hiring guides are protected and that valuable biological data will be reported.

MUCC hopes to be working through this package of bills with the Michigan House Natural Resources and Outdoor Recreation Committee in the coming weeks.

Summary

House Bills (HB) 5358, 5359, 5360 aim to provide clear, enforceable and reasonable regulations on commercial fishing and hunting guides, as well as give the Natural Resources Commission (NRC) the ability to regulate commercial guides as a method of take. These bills would require commercial guides meet a minimum set of safety standards, provide useful data on species harvested to the DNR and have record clean of fish and game violations. These bills also carve out certain exemptions, such as individuals sharing expenses or private landowners assisting with the taking of game on private land. 

Quick Hits

  • $150, three-year registration fee for Michigan residents; $300 for non-resident.
  • Registration for existing charter boat operators in Michigan is free. Great Lakes and connecting waters charter boat fishing operations are partially regulated by the US Coast Guard and the state already .  
  • License fees would be deposited into the game and fish protection fund.
  • All commercial guides must possess a valid base or fishing license, CPR and first aid training certificate, a state identification or driver license and must not have been convicted of any felony or certain fish and game violations in the past three years, including:
    • Obstructing or interfering in the lawful taking of game or fish (hunter/angler harassment)
    • Unlawful taking of game or fish
    • Illegal transport of carcasses
    • charter boat and livery statute (Part 445)
    • Buying or selling of game or fish
    • Possession or release of invasive species, illegal sturgeon

The Issue

Currently, Michigan law is very lax on regulation of commercial hunting and fishing guides. With a simple set of regulatory guidelines bad actors that put their clients in danger or violate game laws are weeded out. This package of bills would also require commercial guides to provide valuable data to state biologists regarding level of effort and harvest. This data is currently not gathered and would grant invaluable insight to biologists, administrators and commissioners when managing fish and game populations. Other states such as Alaska, Idaho and Maine require an extensive process, including passage of an application exam, a high-fee license, first aid certification and in-depth record keeping for every guide.  

MUCC’s position

This change to commercial guiding in Michigan has long been a priority for MUCC and its members. Going back nearly 25 years, we have seen the need to provide some structure to this industry. While the Michigan legislature, DNR and USCG have provided some regulatory framework, the safety of hunters, anglers and trappers is at stake. The ask is little to ensure baselines are met that will continue Michigan’s rich outdoor heritage. MUCC supports this package of bills as amended and looks forward to working with all stakeholders and the legislature..

Who else is involved?

Numerous statewide and regional hunting, fishing and conservation groups testified in support of the bill package – at this time no organizations have testified publicly in opposition.

Recent Posts

From the Field to the Sky: What Fireworks Mean for Wildlife

By Olivia Triltsch • July 3, 2025
The United States is not shy about using big, beautiful fireworks in celebration of many occasions. July 4th is a day of celebration for many within the country, celebrating the country’s independence from Great Britain in 1776. Fireworks and barbecues are the most common modes of celebration on this day in recognition of the historic significance of the day. While these grand displays are something many look forward to each year, it is important to consider the impacts these explosions have on the surrounding area, including pets and wildlife.

MUCC Submits Public Comment in Support of Line 5 Tunnel Project

By Justin Tomei • June 30, 2025
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE MUCC Submits Public Comment in Support of Line 5 Tunnel Project Lansing, MI — Michigan United Conservation Clubs (MUCC), the nation’s largest statewide conservation organization, has submitted formal public comments urging the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to approve the Enbridge Line 5 Tunnel Project. In a letter submitted today, MUCC emphasized the need to move this critical infrastructure forward to protect the Great Lakes while maintaining safe, reliable energy transportation. “MUCC supports the tunnel project as the best available alternative to reduce the risk of an environmental disaster in the Straits of Mackinac while continuing to deliver essential energy products to Michigan families and industries,” said Amy Trotter, CEO of MUCC. “We believe the tunnel project strikes a balance between protecting the environment and maintaining energy security.” MUCC’s position is backed by a formal resolution passed by its membership, which includes thousands of hunters, anglers, trappers, and outdoor enthusiasts across Michigan. The resolution supports the tunnel as a long-term solution that replaces the aging and exposed pipeline segment currently crossing the Straits, offering greater environmental safeguards through secondary containment. The organization cited the Draft Environmental Impact Statement (EIS), which acknowledges the tunnel’s benefits, including reduced spill risk and a controlled, buried environment for transporting light crude oil and natural gas liquids. MUCC also rejected the "no action alternative," which would allow the existing line to remain in operation without any new protective infrastructure. “Other alternatives, like transporting fuel by truck or rail, are inefficient and carry greater environmental and safety risks,” Trotter added. “Allowing the current line to operate exposed on the lakebed indefinitely is simply not acceptable.” MUCC’s comment stresses that the organization is not weighing in on the type of energy transported, but rather on the environmental risks and safety benefits of the tunnel itself. Originally approved by the Michigan legislature and governor in 2018, the Great Lakes Tunnel Project represents a once-in-a-generation investment in infrastructure and environmental protection. MUCC urges the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to issue the necessary permits and move forward with construction without further delay. For Media Contact: Justin Tomei jtomei@mucc.org 517-346-6488 #####

Michigan Wildlife Conservation Month: MUCC's Impact

By Olivia Triltsch • June 26, 2025
Since its inception, MUCC has made great strides in the conservation of natural resources through advocacy, habitat, youth education, and communications.
More Posts