Wm Bowhunters

West Michigan Bowhunters is a local chapter of Safari Club International (SCI), the organization that functions for hunting what the NRA does for the Second Amendment. Founded in 1989 by Jerry Bouwkamp, the chapter now has over 80 active members dedicated to bowhunting, wildlife conservation, and preserving Michigan's hunting heritage.

The chapter operates as a non-profit focused on three core missions:

• •Protecting hunters' rights and advocating for sportsmen in Michigan
• •Wildlife conservation through education and sustainable resource management
• •Youth and outdoor education programs to develop the next generation of hunters

Joining WMBH puts you in a network that matters:

"All members of the West MI Bowhunters–SCI Chapter receive a free membership to Michigan United Conservation Clubs (MUCC) as part of their annual dues."

Members get monthly Conservation Insider email updates from MUCC, access to digital copies of Michigan Out-of-Doors Magazine, and login to the MUCC website for member-only resources.

WMBH hosts year-round activities that keep members connected and raise money for conservation:

• •2026 Annual Convention (February 13-14) at the Pinnacle Center featuring speaker Billy Molls and major auction/raffle events
• •Big Buck Nights and trophy celebrations
• •Hunting trips and fishing charters
• •Camps and camping expeditions
• •Training courses and hunter safety education
• •Fundraising events that generate significant donations to wildlife conservation

The chapter donated $44,483 to SCI headquarters in 2023 and $40,000 in 2022 from convention fundraising alone.

WMBH actively invests in the future of hunting:

• •Raised at Full Draw sponsorship: The chapter has sponsored multiple campers annually through this youth hunting camp, purchasing equipment and covering fees to help reduce the decline in young hunters.
• •Academic scholarships: $4,000+ given yearly to college students pursuing careers in natural resources management.
• •Veterans outreach: Programs to connect veterans with hunting and outdoor experiences.
• •Hunt 2 Heal support: WMBH proudly supports Hunt 2 Heal, which provides free outdoor experiences for people with physical disabilities.

WMBH welcomes anyone from ages 1 to 100. You can join online through Safari Club International's website (select West Michigan Bowhunters in step 2) or by mail:

Mailing Address: West Michigan Bowhunters P.O. Box 459 Hudsonville, MI 49426

Contact: 2485 Wilshere Dr, Jenison, MI 49428 Phone: (616) 293-4835 Email: [email protected]

WMBH members commit to hunting with integrity:

• •Conduct in the field that contributes positively to wildlife and ecosystems
• •Continuous improvement in hunting skills to ensure humane harvesting
• •Full compliance with game laws and Fair Chase principles
• •Support for game law enforcement
• •Teaching young people the meaning of ethical hunting
• •Respect for game, habitat, and property

• •Membership is open year-round. Join online, renew through SCI's website, and become part of West Michigan's bowhunting community.