Crossbows gain popularity with Michigan deer hunters

By CELESTE BOTT
Capital News Service
LANSING – The number of deer hunters using crossbows has doubled since 2009, according to a survey by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR). The survey indicated that while the overall number of hunters in the state have declined, the method of crossbow hunting is growing in popularity. In 2011, about 74,120 hunters used crossbows in the deer archery season. In 2012, the number grew to 88, 565. The rapid growth is attributed in part to the loosening regulations over the past three years.