AI-generated illustration; not a photograph of the reported event.
- calendar_today October 27, 2026
The Rise of Female Hunters in the United States
Women are increasingly making their mark in shooting sports and hunting, according to recent trends. The 2026 National Firearms Survey found that women now constitute 45.7% of gun owners in the United States — a figure representing over 40 million female gun owners. Since 2018, the number of women taking up gun ownership has grown at a rate over 50% higher than that of men.
Pandemic Years Accelerate Participation
The COVID-19 pandemic played a significant role in boosting female participation in outdoor pastimes such as target, trap, and skeet shooting. Many women looked for new, healthy outdoor activities that allowed them to try something different, learn self-defense, and enjoy time outside. Hunting also provided an appealing way to put food on the table while enjoying fresh air.
Industry Responds to Female Interest in Outdoor Sports
With female participation in shooting and hunting at an all-time high, the retail industry has started to take note. More companies are creating clothing, gear, firearms, and archery equipment specifically designed for women — a shift from the historically male-focused market. In the past, women often had to adapt men's clothing for outdoor activities and hunting, a challenge many recall vividly.
Mentorship and Community: Women on the Wing
An example of this growing movement is the organization Pheasants Forever, which launched "Women on the Wing" in 2018. This initiative is dedicated to developing women-focused programs and creating local chapters. Fundraising events like "Wine, Women and Wild Game" are designed to attract new members and foster new chapters. The movement has expanded rapidly across the country.
One notable chapter, Thumbs Up Women on the Wing, formed in Tuscola County and quickly grew. Members train their own hunting dogs and use a variety of shotguns and field-tested gear designed for women. The group values the camaraderie, mentorship, and shared learning opportunities — both in the field and during social gatherings.
Pheasant Hunting and Mentoring the Next Generation
Thumbs Up Women on the Wing arranges regular hunts, including outings on private farms and at preserves like the Dead-End Pheasant Hunting Preserve near Imlay City. In addition to enjoying hunts themselves, the group has begun hosting ladies-only and youth-focused pheasant hunts. These events provide hands-on mentorship, introducing newcomers to hunting in a supportive environment. For example, before a wild pheasant hunt, participants often take pre-season excursions to familiarize themselves with the landscape and prepare their dogs.
The mentoring process follows Pheasants Forever's established guidelines: each new participant is paired with an unarmed mentor, and field rules allow safety and personal instruction. Multi-generational events welcome both women and youth, reinforcing the importance of guidance and shared experience in developing new hunters.
Continued Growth and Future Plans
Mentor-driven hunts organized by Thumbs Up Women on the Wing have been well-received, leading to repeat invitations and the establishment of annual events. The group continues to provide structured opportunities for women and young people to learn and participate in hunting and shooting sports. Their collaborative approach and focus on inclusivity signal an ongoing trend of growth for female hunters and mentorship in outdoor pursuits.
Source: manisteenews.com.
