In this double episode we continue our series - The Legacy of Great Hunters. I interview Michigan DNR deer specialist Chad Stewart, and we get very candid about regulations, if they are working, and we discuss some potential fixes to perceived problems in Michigan. This was recorded several months ago, and since Michigan has started an initiative with the goal of improving regulations (also, I’ve slightly changed some of my stances since this recording, namely regarding youth seasons being doe only - read my full thoughts in this related article HERE ) This discussion is still very valid, and also might apply to other states in similar situations. Chad gives his take on a few of my proposed changes - one of which he says is terrible! If you’re not happy with deer hunting regulations, how the DNR is handling your deer herd, and feel helpless about what to do to fix things, I think this podcast is for you.

And please excuse a bit of throat clearing and some hard cuts, as I had some allergies at the time and tried to edit some of this out.

SHOW NOTES:

Part 1:

• Chad’s background as a hunter and professional DNR biologist
• Chad’s take on stewardship and conservation - what’s the difference and   
   who is responsible for the health of the deer herd?
• How regulations are made, and how they can be changed
• Harvest data collection - the old surveys, their reliability, and why the   
   switch   
   to mandatory reporting was made
• What recommendations of the DNR to the NRC are based on for new
   regulations
• Is science or hunter opinion driving hunting regulation decisions? What
   should in Chad’s opinion?

Part 2:
• Are deer tag sale revenues driving decisions on Michigan seasons and
   license structure?
• Do liberal, long deer seasons and increased opportunities actually help
   hunter retention and taking more deer?
• Are youth seasons actually working for getting and retaining new hunters?
• Chad’s reaction to my proposed idea to restrict what youth hunters can take
• Public land changes - my proposed changes for trimming and screw in gear
   holders, and Chad’s reaction.
• Will zones for rifle and shotgun change, and what we can use in these     
   zones in the foreseeable future?

Make sure to download our FREE journal to help with the episode, so you get the most possible out of it! HERE

Year Theme: To Be a Greater Hunter
Series: The Legacy of Great Hunters
Episode # 46
Guest: Host Adam Lewis; Chad Stewart
IQ ranking - 5 (intermediate)

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