2013 Hunting and Fishing Guide

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Hunting & Fishing Guide 2013

What to do when seeking a hunting license S The requirements to secure a hunting license vary depending on where a hunter lives. Different states, counties and even countries each have their own rules and hunters must adhere to these specific rules in order to secure their licenses in time for hunting season.

As different as rules can be from state to state, there are certain ways hunters can make the licensing process go more smoothly regardless of where they live.

• Determine which type of hunting you will be doing. Before applying for a license, determine where you will be hunting and which species of animals you hope to hunt. Different animals typi-

cally require different permits, so hunters can do themselves a favor and expedite the process by pinpointing the animals they hope to hunt before applying.

• Determine how licenses are issued. Depending on where you live, your state or municipality might have a Web site detailing each step of the licensing process. If not, visit a nearby sporting goods or outdoor shop and ask a member of the shop’s staff if they can help with the process. An outdoor shop is often a great source of information and is likely to make the process much easier to understand.

• Determine if you’re eligible for any discounts.

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Some hunters are eligible for discounts, while others might be charged more. Many states offer discounted rates to their own residents, and might even extend those discounts to seniors, youths and military personnel. However, many states charge out-of-state hunters more. Do some research ahead of time to determine your eligibility for discounts or if your status will garner more fees.

• Buy only what you need. Hunters who can only get out to hunt for one day should only seek a one-day license. Such licenses are less expensive and available for many different types of hunting.

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Hunting & Fishing Guide 2013

Safety Musts!

Preventing Hunting Accidents Although game animals and hunting gear needs vary across the country, there is one aspect of hunting that is universal — the topic of safety. The combination of powerful weapons and the thrill of the hunt can lead to injury or death if safety precautions aren’t taken or mistakes are made. Before you grab your gun or bow, take a refresher course in hunting safety, and follow these tips: • First and foremost, always treat your disarmed bow or gun as if it were loaded. Never assume that the weapon is completely safe.

• Never point your weapon in anyone’s direction, even if it is unloaded. And don’t rest a weapon on your toe or foot, or up against a fence or tree.

• Know your safe zone-of-fire and stick to it.

Your safe zone-of-fire is the area or direction in which you can safely fire a shot. (It is called the “down range” at a shooting facility.) Be sure you know where your companions are at all times. Never swing your gun or bow out of your safe zone-of-fire.

• Keep the safety engaged at all times, until the time when you are ready to shoot.

• Clearly identify your target before shooting.

Every year, people are shot because they are mistaken for deer or other animals. Until your target is fully visible and in good light, do not even raise the scope of your rifle to see it, but use binoculars, instead, to clarify the target.

Know what is in front of and behind your target. Never take a shot at any animals on top of ridges or hillsides since you don’t know what is behind it. It is a good idea to scout out your

proposed hunting area to make sure there aren’t homes or roads close by.

• Know the range of your weapon: how far it will shoot; what loads you have in the chamber; and how accurate you are with a bow or gun. (It’s a good idea to visit a gun range prior to hunting season and fire your weapon to gauge accuracy.)

• When hunting from a tree stand, use fall restraints, like a shoulder harness or safety belt, to prevent you from falling.

• Keep your emotions in check. No trophy buck or pheasant is worth risking making a mistake.

• Hunt only during the state-allowed hours, usually from dawn until dusk. Never hunt at night or in weather where visibility is compromised.

• Make sure you are hunting on state-approved land.

Avoid areas that are “Posted” as private property.

• Always unload your weapon after use. In addition, don’t climb over a fence, duckblind or (a camouflage bushlike object that prevent ducks

from spotting you in the water) into or out of a tree stand with a loaded weapon.

• Practice ear and eye safety. Many hunters damage their ears by repeatedly firing a weapon without proper ear protection. If you must listen for game approaching, put a soft earplug in the ear closest to the weapon to acquire some protection. Wear protective eye goggles as well.

• Keep your weapon clean and well maintained.

The smallest amount of debris lodged in your weapon (even a small amount of snow in a rifle barrel) can cause a misfire and potential injury. Always dismantle and check the weapon carefully after each use, and any time it is dropped.

• Wear conspicuous-colored clothing, like bright fluorescent orange, so you’ll stand out in thick foliage and not be mistaken for an animal. If you live in a rural area, during hunting seasons (which vary by state and weapon), have family members protect themselves by dressing in bright colors as well.

• Never drink alcohol or use drugs before or during a hunting trip.

Michigan trapper education course now offered in classroom, online Sept. 11, 2013 A trapper education course is now being offered in classroom settings and online for Michigan residents who are interested in trapping furbearing animals. The course is not a requirement in Michigan, but the Department of Natural Resources and the conservation community strongly encourage new trappers to take advantage of the knowledge and skills taught in the course.

The purpose of the trapper education program is to help individuals throughout the U.S. acquire the knowledge, skill, attitude and judgment to selectively and responsibly trap furbearing animals.

To find a nearby traditional classroom course, go to www.michigan.gov/recreationalsafety for a searchable database of class offerings. There may be fees associated with the traditional classroom course. The online course is free and can be found at www.trappered.com (click on U.S. Trapper Education Course). Students taking the course online are strongly encouraged to pre-register with a classroom instructor to fulfill the skill/field test portion of the course, and to take the Michigan

student examination. There may be fees associated with the skills/field day.

“Some states and provinces require a field day in addition to the online program to have a valid trapper education certificate, and this program is designed to meet those requirements,” said Sgt. Tom Wanless, program supervisor for the DNR’s hunter education program. “We recommend anyone who wants to get involved with trapping furbearers to take advantage of these courses and learn hands-on from experts, which is invaluable.”

For more information on trapping and fur harvesting, visit the DNR website at www. michigan.gov/trapping.

The Michigan Department of Natural

Resources is committed to the conservation, protection, management, use and enjoyment of the state’s natural and cultural resources for current and future generations.

For more information, go to www.michigan.gov/dnr.

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Hunting & Fishing Guide 2013

Hiring a fishing charter A vacation or a weekend getaway can be made even more enjoyable when it includes some time spent on the water. Hiring a private boat or joining an established fishing charter is one way to enjoy some fishing and sightseeing without much effort. But not all charters are the same, and it’s important to find one that meets your needs.

While you certainly can wait until you are at your destination before finding a charter, it helps to do your homework before arriving to guarantee the best package and price.

This way you will not be at the mercy of the hotels and resorts in the area and you can read unbiased reviews about charter organizations.

There are many fishing charters across the country. Starting your research as soon as you know to where you will be traveling can help you narrow down the options in that area. Write down what you want to ask potential charter captains to ensure your experience is one to remember for all the right reasons.

Travel package Web sites as well as local boards of commerce and tourism sites are a great resource to find fishing charters. Once you have a few names you can begin the investigative process. A service like TripAdvisor.com enables you to read reviews on attractions and services in particular ar-

eas across the world. You can type in your charter service name and read up on what others have to say about their experiences.

Through the review forums you also may be able to garner names of other charter companies and attractions that may not be on the tourism sites.

Another good starting-off point is a service like Findafishingcharter.com. Here you can search for charters in the United States and Canada. Click on the map and get a listing of companies that advertise their services.

Once you have narrowed down your options, there are some considerations that should be made and questions that should be asked of the charter captain. * Request a complete price breakdown, including if gratuities are expected. * Ensure that the captain is knowledgeable in the type of fishing you desire and where to go to find these fish. * Make sure the captain is licensed according to the jurisdiction of the U.S. Coast Guard or the Canadian Coast Guard. Ask how many years he or she has been a licensed charter captain. * Ask for references and confirm the business with the Better Business Bureau. * Know the equipment level of a charter boat and whether it is high-tech or basic.

Ask to see photos of the boat or arrange a

tour prior to booking. * Find out where the charter boat actually fishes. * Will the captain and the crew be assisting your party or doing their own fishing concurrently? Novice anglers often benefit from a crew that is paying attention to their customers rather than their own fishing needs. * Are children and families welcome aboard? If so, what kind of bathroom and food facilities are available? * Inquire as to whether you will need your own fishing license. * What fishing gear is provided? * Is this a catch-and-release trip or will trophies be taken home? * Find out a contingency plan for the captain’s absence in case of illness. * Learn about what you have to bring on the trip. You may be required to bring hats, sunscreen, comfortable clothing, rubbersoled shoes, sunglasses, and seasickness medicine. * Be sure to verify if you will be signing a contract and the cancellation policy.

Finding a fishing charter that will cater to your needs is easier than you may think.

Hiring a reputable and experienced charter service can help ensure a good time is had by all on your next trip.

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Hunting & Fishing Guide 2013

Venison meatballs for all to enjoy!

Hunters have a tendency to enjoy venison, but many Marina non-hunters are somewhat squeamish about this typiMakes 5 ra Sauce cups cally tasty meat. As a result, those with fresh venison 1 yellow meat often find themselves looking for unique ways o 3 cloves nion, chopped garlic, m to serve the meat so everyone can enjoy it, even in 2 ribs ce lery, cho ced those people who might be reticent to give it a try. pped 3 Tbl. o liv The following recipe for “Venison Meatball Slid½ c. dry e oil re 4 c. can d wine ers” from “Jon Bonnell’s Texas Favorites” (Gibbs ned dice d tomato Smith) is a great way to get the whole family to es with In a larg juice e s a u c epot, sa enjoy venison for all it has to offer. with u

2 Tea. c hopped fresh or 1 Tea. c ega hopped fresh ba no ½ Tea. c s il ho 1 Tea. k pped fresh thym osher sa e lt Pinch of freshly g round b lack pep red win té the on per e ion, gar and redu simmer lic and c ce until for 8 min e le th ry in e pa u herbs an d season tes, and then pu n is almost dry olive oil until s ree with . Add th oft. Deg ings; sim la e a mer for an addit stick blender u tomatoes, bring ze io n to ti n l al 3-5 m a arsley inutes, th smooth. Stir in liders S l fresh p il l th d e a e n e b p s t e p r o s ve. ch ba n Mea 1 Tbl. opped fresh oregano h h c s . e Veniss1o4-16 sliders l r 1 Tb r pped f ea. cho black peppe Make T t ½ a 1 e d m n u n o o r s g eni r ½ Tea. sher salt 1 Lb. v ork shoulde o k p . r rolls . a b e 1T buns o ese 1⁄ 2 L i n i m e 6 14to 1 ozzarella ch 2 eggs , minced m t ut d d o e e l t l c a a Gr unks. C s 1 sh , min h se c i c e l e h r e s a h i g c g r n l a s n for gar t into l the rol 4 clove ated Parmesa s then cu r (except for gether b , r n g m i . u k l r s b c r 6T read stard ients to d silve togethe on mu anko b l fat an ingredients nd all ingred asonings by l a g ½ c. p 1 ½ tea. Dij n i i v & oss all orm , remo l for se ell. Gr 1 Tbl. ry well ks as well. T combine w one meatbal necessary. F lls e v n o is if a un st nd the ven into large ch ixing bowl a well, then te e seasonings fry the meatb Clean h r x t m p i e t e d s e e M l u g u it; adj k sho rinder. n a lar ands. D r for the por se garnish) i te on your g n and tasting ween your h ain. simme ul t a a r ; e l e ) p e d p b h w a s t l c g o s l n l n e i a d i be all onf an on oll atb the sm ll porti eatballs by r d let the me e (see recipe an extra spo ach a h g m u s o a r m g th ith fe e an sauc sautéin rolls w all-size remov e top o rinara quickly re into golf b ree oil; then mmering ma uns or small cheese to th tu si eg ella ini b the mix ute in 350-d gently in the e on m ated mozzar v r e S n i . s r l h g for 1 m the meatbal throug uch of cooked ne. Add a to l i Place t n u s, o minute r each 15-20 ara sauce fo in of mar , if desired.

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Hunting & Fishing Guide 2013

Hands-on fishing sparks debates The general public often equates fishing with casting a lure into the water and reeling in a prize fish. Yet there is a subset of mostly southern American anglers who prefer a more hands-on method to catching their seafood dinner -- using the art of noodling.

Noodling, or handfishing, is the act of catching large fish -- especially catfish -- with bare hands.

It’s a challenging method of fishing that enthusiasts find exciting and heart-pumping action. While noodling can be exhilarating for the noodler, it also may be risky. In some states handfishing is actually illegal.

Noodling Basics Noodlers tend to seek catfish in the banks and rocky areas of rivers and lakes. They either use their hands or a pole to seek out the telltale signs of a fish in the area and a hole where the fish nests.

Once they determine there is a hole, noodlers insert their arms into the hole and wait for the fish to lunge. Then they try to get both hands into the fish’s mouth to grab a bone in the lower jaw.

Noodlers also may grab the fish through the gills.

The fish is brought to the surface and tightly grasped to immobilize the tail. It is then released or taken as the group’s next meal.

Opposition According to the Missouri Department of Conservation, most catfish handfishing takes place during the nesting season from June to August.

But the department feels that allowing noodlers to continually fish this way could severely deplete local catfish populations. That’s because the fish are quite vulnerable during the nesting season, when they lay their eggs in underwater cavities and do not leave the nest to protect the eggs. Should a noodler pry out the fish, the eggs are vulnerable to predators and often die quickly.

Further research shows that noodling for trophy catfish also can deplete catfish numbers. That’s because older catfish are more effective breeders, but still lay fewer eggs than other sports fish. Taking

away the more effective breeders can put a species at risk.

In addition to Missouri, handfishing is illegal in 10 other states: Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Illinois, Kentucky, Mississippi, North Carolina, Oklahoma, South Carolina, and Wisconsin. Texas once outlawed handfishing, but it has since been legalized amid protests.

There are a number of conservation groups and traditional fishing enthusiasts who want noodling to be illegal. These opponents of noodling feel preying on fish in vulnerable states removes the sportsmanship of fishing. The catfish do not have the chance to bite or refuse bait. They also do not have an opportunity to swim away to escape.

Others say there are no adequate control methods to prevent noodlers from taking too many fish out of streams and rivers. There is also the concern that noodling is dangerous. Catfish have small, but abrasive teeth that can cause injury. Some surmise the term “noodling” originated because the fish are powerful and slippery, and a noodler comes out with arms that are limp like noodles after battling with a catfish. Plus, sometimes noodlers come across biting snakes and snapping turtles when seeking a catfish, which can result in injury or even lost fingers.

Although noodling is a skill many handfishing enthusiasts pass down to younger generations, it continues to spark debate.

Hunting & Fishing Guide 2013

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Hunting & Fishing Guide 2013

How to properly store fishing equipment Spending a day on the water can equate to paradise for the millions of people who enjoy recreational fishing. While fishing is a source of income for countless people, many others view fishing as a recreational retreat.

The American Sportfishing Association reports that there were roughly 40 million Americans who enjoyed angling in 2008. In Canada, there were more than 3 million people who registered for fishing licenses in 2005 (Editor’s note: Both numbers are the most recent statistics available.) The National Sporting Goods Association ranks fishing sixth out of 42 recreation activities in terms of its popularity, preceded only by walking, swimming, exercising, camping and bowling. The highest concentration of anglers can be found in the state of Florida.

The mass number of fishing hobbyists spend millions of dollars on equipment and gear for their fishing excursions each year. With so much

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money being spent, it is essential to properly care for gear and store it well. Here’s how to get started.

Safety There are many components of fishing gear that can be dangerous in the wrong hands. From fileting knives to bait hooks, there is the potential for injury should young children get into the fishing equipment you have. Also, sinkers made out of lead can be toxic should children put these items in their mouths.

Emphasize safety when storing your equipment. If you are keeping rods and reels on your boat, be sure they’re in a locked cargo area so they’re not easily accessible. If tackle and other gear is kept at home, be sure to have a locked cabinet where it can be kept, or place it high enough where it is out of reach.

Make sure sharp lures and hooks are kept together in a tackle box and placed out of the way. Not only will this keep people safe, but it also

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helps to keep gear organized.

Cleaning In order to work properly, gear should be cleaned and inspected prior to storage. Cleaning will also prolong the life span of fishing equipment. Fishing rods should be wiped down after each fishing trip to prevent harmful contaminants and corrosives from eating away at the clear coat on the rod and any metal components. Wiping down also reduces the chance of salt water corrosion.

In terms of cleaning lures and tackle, start out by soaking them in distilled water. If there is a smell or debris stuck on it, some people have used a spray like WD40 with success. If using a soap-based cleanser on soft rubber lures, choose one that is gentle, like baby soaps or even gentle laundry detergent. Just be sure to rinse well.

Rod storage It is important to store fishing rods horizontally to prevent warping

or bending. If using a rack specially designed for fishing rods, it will keep rods straight despite them being stored vertically. Try to keep rods out of a humid room, which can further exacerbate warping and bending of the equipment. Also, never stow a rod in its tube. This can trap humidity and cause corrosion of the guide rings.

Reels should be rinsed after use and disassembled to clean the gears inside. Water can become trapped in small crevices and may rust out ball bearings. Never soak reels in water and try to keep them out of the water on fishing trips. Fly fishing backing may be left on the reel, provided it is completely desalinated and dry. Application of lubricant between uses of a reel can improve performance.

Fishing is a popular recreational activity that is enjoyed thanks to myriad gear. Properly storing this equipment can prolong its life span and keep things safe and organized.

Page 9

Hunting & Fishing Guide 2013

Things to bring along on your next fishing trip Fishing is a beloved pastime for many people. Fans of fishing are often passionate about the sport, and that passion has inspired many novices to try their hand at becoming anglers.

Though there is no way to guarantee you will catch a fish the first time out, you are likely to have some fun, especially if you head out to the nearest fishing hole with a fully stocked tackle box. While even first-timers know to bring a fishing pole and some bait along on their trips, there are some additional items to add to a tackle box that might not seem so practical until after your trip.

The extras When planning a fishing trip, it never hurts to bring along some extra supplies. Many a maiden fishing trip has been cut short when fishermen realize they did not pack enough line or hooks. Fishing line has a tendency to break, even if you aren’t expecting to reel in many fish. Fishing line can break in the mouth of a fish or on items in the water, so you will almost certainly need some extra line. If your fishing hole is known for difficult conditions, pack some heavier and more durable line that’s less likely to snap. When conditions are more serene, a thin, less visible line should suffice.

You should also expect to lose a few hooks on your trip, so pack extra hooks of various sizes. Hooks come in many sizes because fish come in many varieties. You’ll want to have various hooks in your tackle box to handle whichever fish seem to be biting on the day of your trip. When buying your hooks, speak with a store representative and let them know which area you plan to visit. They’re likely to know which fish you’re likely to encounter, and they can help you choose the appropriate hooks. Just remember to bring extras to account for the ones you’re likely to lose.

Bobbers Few things are as exciting when fishing as that first bite from a fish. That’s especially the case for first-timers, many of whom are hooked the moment that first fish begins to tug on their lines. Bobbers are the items you attach to your fishing line that let you know when fish are taking a bite on your line. Bobbers come in various shapes, but many people are familiar with the red and white round bobbers, which can be easily attached to your line. Round bobbers limit how deep you can cast your line. If you’re looking to cast a line deep, slip bobbers allow you to do just that because they can be slid up and down your line. However, slip bobbers are more difficult to attach to your line than round bobbers, something first-timers might want to keep in mind.

Fake worms First-timers might be a little skittish using live bait, so some fake plastic worms might be the best fit when embarking on a first fishing trip. Plastic worms come in various sizes and shapes, and after your initial trip you might decide you want to move on to live bait. But fake bait on the first time is nothing to be ashamed of and many items mimic the look and even the movement patterns of live bait. If you catch a

few fish, you might just swear by plastic bait for the rest of your fishing career.

Lures Lures come in many varieties, and these are intended to attract fish on those days when nothing seems to be biting. Lures may help first-timers get their feet and catch their first fish. That’s especially true when using lures that look like minnows, a popular snack for many fish.

Pliers Unexpected issues often arise when fishing for the first time, and one such issue is what to do when you have caught your first fish. Many firsttimers do not expect to catch a fish their first time out, but don’t be so hard on yourself. Expect to catch a fish and bring along a pair of pliers in anticipation of that first catch. Pliers take the hook out of the fish once it’s been caught, so bring along a pair and expect to use them.

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Hunting & Fishing Guide 2013

Fishing Can Teach Children a ‘Reel’ Appreciation for Nature You’ve taught your kids soccer, basketball and baseball. But have you ever thought about teaching them how to fish? It’s more than a card game — its something both children and parents can do together.

According to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, more than 50 million people in the United States enjoy fishing. It’s easy to get kids in on the action.

“Fishing and boating are unmatched leisure activities that offer a true connection with family, friends and the natural environment,” said Bruce Matthews, president and CEO of the Recreational Boating and Fishing Foundation. “We know that time spent on the water not only brings families closer, it also helps to develop a deeper appreciation of our aquatic natural resources. We hope that by encouraging people to get out there to fish and boat with their families, we’ll be encouraging a love of nature.”

WHAT YOU NEED The U.S. Fish and Wild Service recommends you get the following to fish in freshwater. You’ll find these supplies at a fishing tackle or sporting good store.

• An inexpensive fishing rod and reel: Choose one that is comfortable to hold in one hand.

• 4- to 8-pound-test monofilament fishing line • A package of fishing weights • Fish hooks (number 6-10 size) • A plastic or wood bobber: A bobber moves up and down in the water as fish bite the bait. Buy a plastic one or make one from cork. Most attach to the line with a spring clip.

• Live bait or fishing lures: For beginners, try live

natural bait like worms, minnows, crickets or inserts. You can get worms from your backyard or a bait shop. For minnows, catch them in or near the waters you are fishing. That way you won’t bring new diseases or fish species to the water. You can also use lures like crankbaits, spoons, jigs, spinners, flies or plastic worms.

• Casting plug • Tackle box: While you don’t have to have one, you can use it to store your lures, hooks, weights, pliers, wire cutters, a tape measure, filet knife and hook gorger.

• Fishing license (depending on age and state): Ask the store manager about your state’s laws which also can tell you what fish and the number of fish you can catch per day.

GOING FISHING Once you’ve got the gear, its time to hit the water.

Search state home pages online or call an aquatic resource program in your area to find out where you can fish. Let them help select the location to make them feel more involved in the trip. Try to pick a place with lots of fish rather than large one.

That way, your kids will be more likely to reel one in. Remember to check on fishing regulations, as these sometimes vary.

You don’t need a boat to have a good outing on the water — fish from the shore or off the pier. (If you do fish from a boat, kids will need to wear life preservers and know boating safety.) Once you’re there, find a weedy or rocky area where the water is a few feet deep. Look for areas where the bottom changes from sand to gravel or vice versa.

Tell the kids to stay quiet so they don’t scare the fish away.

You’re kids may grow frustrated, but the best way to get good at fishing is practice. During the outing, teach them about what you are doing and how the equipment works.

Their first casts might not land where they’d like but don’t give up. To get long, accurate casts, they’ll need to practice perfecting the timing of their arm and hand movements.

CATCHING THE FISH “I got one!” Seeing and hearing the sense of accomplishment when a child reels in his first catch is enough to make you know why you taught your child fishing.

Take some snapshots for a souvenir and show and tell — it’s likely that your child will be smiling in every shot.

But, sometimes the fish don’t bite. Keep the kids occupied with food, drinks and an activity pack of books, games and toys. Chat and play games to keep them entertained. Whether you catch something or not, your kids are sure to be smiling because they spent a fun day with you.

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Help feed the hungry with donation to Michigan Sportsmen Against Hunger The Department of Natural Resources has made changes to the license sales system, making it easier for hunters and anglers to automatically add $1 to their license purchase as a donation to Michigan Sportsmen Against Hunger (MSAH) - a program that supports the processing and distribution of venison to food banks and kitchens in Michigan.

Anyone can be a part of this ongoing effort to help those in need. Last year more than 26,000 pounds of donated venison was processed using funds provided through this donation program. The ground venison was then passed on to local food banks and food kitchens throughout Michigan. “It was enough venison to supply over 100,000 meals with a source of nutritious protein,” said Raymond Rustem, DNR contact for Michigan Sportsmen Against Hunger. “With the new system, if just one out of 10 hunters each donated $1 this year we could easily double or triple that amount.”

Donating is easier than ever. When making a license purchase, interested hunters and anglers should let the license agent know that they would

like to donate $1 to help Michigan Sportsmen Against Hunger. The license agent will automatically add $1 to the license purchase total. If making the license purchase online, the buyer should click “Yes” when asked to donate to Sportsmen Against Hunger.

“Today, we have the opportunity to continue a tradition started by hunters before us, who hunted to provide food for early settlements in Michigan,” said Dean Hall, president of Michigan Sportsmen Against Hunger. “Hunter donations of funds or venison can help those who are experiencing hard times.”

To donate a deer, get more information about the program or find the nearest processor, visit the MSAH website at www.sportsmenagainsthunger.org.

Individuals who do not fish or hunt can also support this program. Visit the Michigan estore www.michigan.gov/estore, click on “Tax deductible donations” and then on “Help Feed the Hungry” and fill in the information about the donation.

Donors are reminded to save any receipts or

forms. Donations to Michigan Sportsmen Against Hunger can be used when itemizing income deductions on federal tax forms. “Many people continue to struggle in this economy,” said Rustem.

“Donating to this important effort is a simple way to help.”

Since 1991, Michigan Sportsmen Against Hunger has been working to create linkages among donors, wild game processors and charities that feed needy individuals. MSAH is an all-volunteer organization and is led by sportsmen and women concerned about making a positive difference in the community. Together, they have assembled a network of processors and charities across Michigan to help channel wild game donations into the hands of those in need.

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is committed to the conservation, protection, management, use and enjoyment of the state’s natural and cultural resources for current and future generations. For more information, go to www. michigan.gov/dnr.

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