Economy Affects the Hunting Industry

Due to cut-backs, lay-offs, and downsizing (to name a few) millions of Americans are feeling the grip of a slowed economy (I refuse to use the word “recession”).  As a result, luxuries and other aspects of our lives that we often take for granted are being looked at in a far different way this past year and going forward.   One industry that is not immune to the slowed spending of America is the hunting industry…

and businesses that rely on our dollars and free time to make their livings as well.  Though most of us would argue, the freedom to enjoy a sport we love on a regular basis is not vital to our day to day survival and thus must be viewed as a luxury item that must be cut back or even spared in times of financial crisis.
On the flip side, the economic woes of this country has little affect on the day-to-day lives of game animals or their ability to eat, breed, and pro-create.  Game managers have the same job description that they did a few years ago — sell hunts that allow the ranch to stay afloat or be profitable, and maybe just as important, maintain a sustainable herd of animals that will allow the ranch or outfitting business to continue for generations to come.  A large part of this equation is balancing game numbers.  This is done by removing a predetermined number of individuals to avoid degradation of habitat and avoiding loss to disease, starvation, and natural mortality.

The point of this whole schpeal — managers must still reduce animal numbers as they always have.  But what can you do if people are canceling booked hunts or not spending the $$$ to book future hunts?  –> Lower the asking price until you find the current market value.  Talking to several outfitters and checking out dozens of hunting sites, hunts are being reduced (by thousands of $$$ in some cases) to sell “excess” hunts this year.  Take a close look around.  There are some amazing deals on unique hunts across the country (for native and exotic hunts, alike).  You may just find the hunt of a lifetime at the best price of your lifetime!

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