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

March 2025 NRC Recap

By Justin Tomei • March 13, 2025
March 2025 NRC Recap

Leaping into World Frog Day: Blanchard's Cricket Frog

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.

MUCC Celebrates Conservation Leaders at 2025 Annual Awards Banquet

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: