8-Year-Old Makes Michigan Elk-Hunting History

by
posted on February 22, 2020
** 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. **
elk-miller_lead.jpg
courtesy of Gunner Miller

When Braeleigh Miller, 8, took her first elk in Michigan last December, she had no idea the hunt would make the record books. With a 202-yard shot on a 400-pound cow elk, Braeleigh officially became the youngest hunter in Michigan history to kill an elk.

Braeleigh was hunting with her dad, Gunnar, and her grandpa through the state's mentor program and, with help from a guide, found elk in a field on opening morning.

“This entire experience has been nothing short of phenomenal," said Gunnar Miller. "[Braeleigh] had the trip of a lifetime for sure.”

“It’s cool for me because I’ve never set a record before, my dad hasn’t set a record before, and my grandpa hasn’t set a record before,” exclaimed the young hunter.

The previous record for the youngest successful elk hunter in Michigan was held by an 11-year-old.

Latest

Olsen Shooting FN 15 Guardian
Olsen Shooting FN 15 Guardian

#SundayGunday: FN 15 Guardian

On this week's #SundayGunday, we have an AR-platform from one of the finest gunmakers in the world, perfect for hog hunters and home defenders alike. The FN 15 Guardian applies Fabrique Nationale's proven quality to an AR, yielding a gun that runs well through all conditions.  A 16-inch 4150 Chrome Moly Vanadium steel barrel, qualifies the gun as a carbine, perfect for handling through the woods or in a ground blind. Learn more about it in this exclusive video.

How do you Compare to the Average Hunter?

There is no “average” hunter, although don’t be surprised if you’re more run-of-the-mill than you think after seeing the results of the “2025 Hunting Industry Insights” report. The survey, conducted by Untamed Outdoor Agency (UOA), focused on what might be the most active demographic—sportsmen between the ages of 32 and 52.

Says You: Trail Camera Overkill?

Editor-in-Chief Scott Olmsted's monthly response column to questions posed by our members. This week, we're discussing mountain lions, poaching and trail camera use.

New for 2026: Trijicon SRO Green Dot

Trijicon has announced a 2.5 MOA, Green Dot version of the SRO reflex sight. The new model will be available in Black and Coyote Brown anodized finishes.

More Than $6.6 Million in Tribal Wildlife Grants to Advance Conservation

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) is awarding more than $6.6 million to federally recognized Native American and Alaska Native tribes to benefit fish and wildlife resources and their habitats. This year’s funding will support 35 tribes for conservation projects across 15 states, benefiting a wide range of wildlife and habitat, including species of cultural or traditional importance to Indigenous communities.

Hardware Review: TriStar KR.22

TriStar is noted for shotguns, but Bryce Towsley recently received a test gun from them that’s much different. Check out his review on the TriStar KR.22.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.