Meat Hunting Grows

by
posted on May 17, 2017
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
meat_hunting_grows_f.jpg

Contrary to popular belief, most hunters don’t hunt for a trophy but rather for the meat a successful hunt can provide, according to a survey launched in 2008 by Responsive Management of Harrisonburg, Va., which has measured various aspects of hunting for several states across the country for almost 30 years.

Among other possible answers given, including the desire to obtain a trophy, to experience nature, to spend time with family and friends, and to experience recreational benefits, two of five hunters nationwide responded that obtaining meat is the main reason they hunt. This is in contrast to a trend 10 years ago, when one of three hunters indicated the recreational aspect of the pastime was the primary factor for going afield.

Responsive Management’s study indicates that economic, cultural and health factors are behind the trend. Perhaps the “locavore” movement plays into it, too. After all, by now it’s well known that even some celebrity millennials, like Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg, have taken up hunting, stating that meat “tastes doubly better when you’ve hunted the animal yourself.”

Latest

BTB 7Mm RUM Lead
BTB 7Mm RUM Lead

Behind the Bullet: 7mm Remington Ultra Magnum

Launching a 160-grain bullet in excess of 3200 fps, the 7mm RUM is among the fastest commercially loaded 7mm cartridges available.

USFWS Debuts 2025-2026 Federal and Junior Duck Stamps

The 2025-2026 Federal Migratory Bird Hunting and Conservation Stamp—commonly known as the Duck Stamp—became available for purchase on June 27, 2025.

Tested: Work Sharp Professional Precision Adjust Elite Knife Sharpener

Digital Associate Editor walks viewers through the features of the Work Sharp Professional Precision Adjust Elite Knife Sharpener, the perfect tool for a hunter looking to keep all his knives factory sharp season after season.

Recipe: Green Curried Black Bear

Green curry sauce is an excellent base for simmering bear meat, making it flavorful, tender, and safe to consume. Read on for another instant classic recipe from Brad Fenson.

Coyotes to Competitions: An AR-Build for Accuracy

ARs make great coyote guns. But what would the absolute best coyote rifle look like? Digital Associate Editor David Herman builds his take on the best AR for shooters who like to plug coyotes in the winter, and ring steel all summer long.

Pennsylvania Governor Signs Sunday Hunting Bill

Legislation that will fully repeal Pennsylvania’s Sunday hunting ban was signed into law on July 9.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.