Deer Season In Michigan

Today is the twelfth, opening day of deer season in Michigan is the Saturday the fifteenth. The beginning of fifteen days of tradition here in the heartland of the state. From Kent County to "The Bridge" and everywhere in the U.P., this is more then just a time to hunt deer. In many families it is a right of passage.
Sure there is bow season before and after, but it is rifle season that marks the bonding of parent and child in the rite of deer hunting. It is a time so important that many factories close for "Deer Day" and schools call it safety day and shut their doors.

On farmland and in woodlots around the region legions of orange covered hunters will be counting down the seconds till sunrise and official start of the season.
For most of them it isn't just killing a deer. People around here really eat the meat, and getting a deer means food on the table this winter. The season also means money. Down state and out of state hunters bring much needed dollars into the area. Bars, restaurants, motels, gas stations, and grocery stores all see extra business at this time. What they spend now will help keep the heat on in allot of homes this winter.
In short deer season means hunters mean money spent and that means jobs for a lot of people who would otherwise be laid off.

While I do not hunt, I understand the importance of these fifteen days on the economy of the state. I must admit I also like the taste of a nice venison roast. Hopefully one of my hunting friends will be willing to share.