I hunt in Montcalm County, one of three in our party shot a nice 8pt on the opener. Did not see as many deer as normal due to oceans of corn still standing around us. I passed on quite a few nice deer because we are in an area where a good number of us practice QDM (i.e. let them grow).
Every year we hear less and less shooting on opening day, it is very weird, I attribute it partly to the following: youth hunt, special hunts, CWD drama, cross bows being legal now, QDM, and video games.
I am not opposed to the youth or special hunts, cross bows, or QDM, , but I do believe they have an effect on the number of shots one hears on the traditional firearms opener.
I am opposed to video games and cell phones for young kids, when they should be out enjoying the outdoors be it sports or hunting/fishing. Some kids I know would rather shoot deer or zombies on a video game than go out and actually shoot deer.
Strange times we live in.
Good luck, there is a lot of season left.
