Big Increase In Female Hunters Seen In Wyoming, Men Down Slightly
The number of hunting and fishing licenses sold to women in Wyoming has seen a marked increase over the past decade, while men are buying slightly fewer such licenses.
That's according to a news release from the Wyoming Game and Fish Department. The agency says 30.5 percent more women are hunting in the Cowboy state compared to ten years ago.
The increase among female anglers is not quite as large at 14.5 percent over that time.
Meanwhile, the number of men participating in both activities is down by about 5 percent.
Game and Fish Hunter and Angler Participation Coordinator Kathryn Boswell said the agency has been reaching out to women to get them more involved in outdoor activities, including not only hunting and fishing but also things like canoeing, photography, shooting sports and archery.
In regard to the increase in female hunters, Boswell was quoted as saying “I think women are starting to see hunting as an activity that is accessible to them,” Boswell said. “And, it comes with a certain pride in putting healthy food on the table and knowing exactly how it got there — something I think all hunters regardless of gender can relate to.”
Boswell also said she was not concerned about the small decline in male hunters and anglers in the state, saying ''The demographics are changing. Our baby boomers are getting older and at the same time, women are seeing hunting and fishing as options for their food and recreation choices.