Deer hunting is America’s pastime.

Deer are among the most widespread wildlife species, and they are the most sought-after game animal. Nearly eight of every 10 hunters identifies as a deer hunter, as 79% of American hunters pursue deer. There are an estimated 11 million deer hunters in the United States compared to 3.1 million turkey hunters, 1.4 million waterfowl hunters, and less than 1 million elk hunters. I enjoy chasing elk, ducks and turkeys, but the above numbers show deer drive the hunting industry, as deer hunters spend more than $23 billion annually with a total multiplier effect of more than $50 billion.