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

Free Recipe Collection
Free Recipe Collection

Free Recipe Collection Celebrates Hi Mountain Seasonings’ 35th Anniversary

Hi Mountain Seasonings is celebrating its 35th anniversary with a new collection of wild game recipes designed to help hunters make the most of their harvest.

President Trump Defends Hunters and Thanks the NRA

In a historic day at the White House on September 17, President Donald Trump (R) signed an executive order to protect and enhance hunters’ part in the North American Wildlife Conservation Model.

Says Me: Life is Short. Buy the Gun.

Fifty years from now the nostalgic scenes our heirs will conjure will be photos of us carrying guns supremely upgraded from the likes of Murray and his lot. Call it hunting, evolved.

37 States Now Approve FireStick for Muzzleloading Seasons

Connecticut and Indiana have joined the growing number of states recognizing Federal Premium FireStick technology for use during their 2026 muzzleloader seasons. Two others —Arizona and California—recently approved the product in their hunting regulations.

Ammo Trends: Things are Getting Smaller … Again

Is bigger always better? Or does precision triumph over all? The ammo world will likely never agree. Nonetheless, Philip Massaro takes a look at the latest downsizing trend. 

Bagging Birds: How to Hit More Doves

No one wants to be the butt of jokes from friends on the dove field. Read our tips to be the hot shooter on the field this season.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.