The startling statistic in our headline was arrived at by Southwick Associates after conducting a survey of 28,447 hunters in 20 states. The top three reasons cited by those passing on this year’s seasons include fewer places to hunt (38 percent), friends or family lost interest (28 percent) and hunting locations too far from home (25 percent). Decreased game populations, regulation complexity, age/health, relocated in an area with worse hunting and general loss of interest followed, in descending order.
For those not heading afield this year, work schedules were a factor in that decision. Eighty-three percent of respondents indicated their job limits available time to hunt. Family matters came in second in the category.
Fifteen percent of this year’s opening-day no shows said they would spend the time they usually hunt to pursue other outdoor sports. When accompanied by family members, camping was the top alternative, followed by fishing, then canoeing/kayaking. With friends the favorite alternatives were golfing, field sports and fishing. For those spending time alone it was running, bicycling and gardening.
Why the change? “Easier to do” led the list, followed closely by “no or fewer restrictions” and the activity is “closer to home.”
Another big concern showed in survey participants who were 34 years of age or younger. The rising cost of equipment, ammunition, lease access and travel was cited by 25 percent in that demographic group.
The survey also asked participants what the primary factor was that generated their passion for hunting. The results, in descending order, were harvesting meat, enjoying the outdoors, spending time with family and friends and relaxation.
The study was funded by a Multistate Conservation Grant from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. A summary of results was published in the National Shooting Sports Foundation’s “Hunting & Conservation Activities: Identifying & Overcoming Hunting’s Competition—2026” report.
