Michiganders who participate in outdoor activities may see an increase in costs. Gov. Gretchen Whitmer's proposed state budget for 2026 includes higher hunting, fishing, and boating license fees, which are projected to raise an additional $208 million for Michigan’s budget. According to a Detroit Free Press report, this would be the first fee increase for hunting licenses since 2014 and for boating since 1993.

Some residents are bracing for the potential impact on their outdoor activities. Being awaited to generate $22 million from hunting and fishing licenses, the state is also banking on an additional $6.9 million from watercraft fees, Outdoorhub notes. Outdoor enthusiasts acknowledge the importance of funding conservation efforts, especially as the state faces fiscal challenges, though some express concerns about the added pressure on personal finances.

The proposed figures show notable increases in hunting and fishing license costs. As reported by FOX 17, a small game hunting license for resident adults is set to rise from $11 to $17, and all-species fishing licenses for residents will increase from $26 to $40. Motorboat license fees are also expected to rise, with costs ranging from $24.17 to $773.57, depending on the vessel's length.

Voicing the community sentiment, Nolan Hitt, a lifelong hunter and fisherman told FOX 17, "It won't deter me just because I've been doing it my whole life and I'm going to continue, might make me a little upset when that time of year comes around to buy licenses." The proposed budget also includes a new opt-out system for a DNR recreation passport, currently priced at $14, which is projected to rake in another $17.2 million.

As these proposals move to the legislative stage, the debate intensifies over finding a balance between generating necessary revenue and ensuring access to outdoor recreation. Especially, they are contested as Michigan sports enthusiasts like Mecosta County's Ted Rickabus expressed concerns to Detroit Free Press, "Raising prices will only accelerate the decline in participation." As these proposals move forward, their outcome remains a key consideration for those involved in Michigan’s outdoor activities.