Hunting, fishing and trapping have long been Michigan traditions.

With an abundance of game animals and birds, Michigan attracts the third-most number of hunters in the nation. Michigan also contains more than 3,000 miles of Great Lakes shoreline, 36,000 miles of rivers and 11,000 inland lakes, which draw the fifth-most anglers of any state.

Anglers and hunters help with conservation efforts and wildlife management by purchasing licenses and controlling animal and fish populations. Every year, they also contribute billions of dollars to Michigan’s economy.

I will continue to protect your hunting and fishing rights. I recently co-sponsored Senate Joint Resolution G to protect our state’s rich heritage of hunting, fishing and trapping by establishing this fundamental right in Michigan’s constitution.

By declaring in the constitution the people’s right to hunt, fish and trap animals that are held in the public trust — and require aggressive enforcement of laws protecting those rights — we would ensure that these rights are preserved for future generations.

If SJR G receives two-thirds support in both legislative chambers, the proposal would be placed on the ballot of the next general election for the people to decide.

As we work to protect your rights, I encourage southwest Michigan families and out-of-state visitors to get outdoors and enjoy some of the world’s best fishing and hunting in our state.

For more information on hunting and trapping in Michigan, including guides and details on all rules and regulations, residents may visit michigan.gov/hunting.

I urge everyone to hunt with safety in mind. Most hunting-associated injuries and casualties are preventable.

Visit michigan.gov/fishing for comprehensive information on Michigan fishing, such as materials on seasons, regulations and fish identification. The site features a “family friendly fishing waters” section that highlights bodies of water identified as family-friendly based on their ease of access, high likelihood of success in catching fish, amenities and more.

I hope you all have a chance to experience Michigan’s great outdoors. It is truly one of the things that makes our state such a great place to live and raise a family.

Have fun and be safe.

Sen. John Proos, R-St. Joseph, represents southwest Michigan.