Chapter 1: Introduction to Bowhunting
Bowhunter and Bowhunting Motivations

Bowhunting is an important aspect of life for many Americans. A 1998 survey funded by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service discovered the following facts.

• More than 14 million Americans hunt, which represents about seven percent of the population.
• Forty-four percent of hunters report that they have hunted with a bow.
• Bowhunting continues to grow in popularity, especially in recent years.
• Most bowhunters are between the ages of 35 and 54.
• The average age at which an active bowhunter begins hunting is 23.

Why do you hunt with a bow?

How Bowhunter Education Is Funded

Funding for bowhunter education comes from the following sources:

• Federal Funds—U.S. excise taxes on handguns and archery equipment, as well as fees collected from ammunition, sporting arms, and archery manufacturers
• State and Provincial/Territorial Funds—Fees collected from state and provincial hunting license sales, stamps, fines, arrests, and other sources
• Organizations—National Bowhunter Education Foundation, International Bowhunting Organization, Pope and Young Club, Safari Club International, and The Bowhunting Preservation Alliance
• Donations—Money from fundraising efforts and corporations, which is distributed to various governmental and non-governmental groups
• Student Fees—Fees paid by students attending bowhunter education classes