New report shows public supports hunting and recreational sport shooting, but ‘intention matters’

Washington, D.C. – Public support for hunting and sport shooting in the United States remains strong, but highly conditional, according to the 2025 Americans’ Attitudes Toward Hunting and Sport Shooting report, a new national study conducted by Responsive Management for the Council to Advance Hunting and the Shooting Sports.

With 2,212 completed interviews collected through a scientifically rigorous survey, the new study reveals that Americans are most likely to approve of hunting and shooting when motivated by food, conservation, or safety, as opposed to hunting for a trophy or for certain species.

“The results confirm that Americans largely understand the value of ethical hunting and shooting sports,” Steven Leath, PhD, Executive Director of the Council, said. “But they also remind us that intention matters and maintaining public trust requires continuous outreach and education. We can’t take support for granted.”

Among the key findings: 73% of Americans approve of legal regulated hunting, and 74% approve of sport shooting for recreational purposes. However, approval rates dropped sharply for trophy hunting and high-fenced or captive animal harvest.

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These insights provide a roadmap for policymakers, conservation leaders, and educators aiming to align messaging and programs with public sentiment.

“This data set gives us clarity,” Scott Lavin, Director of Research & Partnerships for CAHSS, said. “Whether you’re designing policy, funding outreach, or running a recruitment, retention, reactivation (R3) program, it’s essential to understand where the public stands and why.”

The report also offers a detailed trend analysis comparing attitudes over time and across demographic and geographic segments. The layered approach allows agencies and partners to identify where shifts in public opinion are occurring and adjust strategies accordingly.

The research is considered a strategic tool for advocacy and planning. With pressures mounting on outdoor access, gun rights, and conservation funding, understanding the social landscape is more important than ever. As Lavin put it, “We’re committed to ensuring this data informs real action, not just conversation.”

The full report, “Americans’ Attitudes Toward Hunting and Sport Shooting 2025,” is available for download on the Council website at cahss.org.