About Us

Michigan Traditional Bowhunters (MTB) is a non-profit origination of traditional archers whose main interest lies in bowhunting with recurves, longbows, and self-bows. MTB began as a dream by Dan Bertalan and Ed Sandifer. The desire for the group was to share a sense of camaraderie and common purpose among bowhunters using all types of traditional archery equipment. This group could also function as a political entity when needed, to prevent the degradation of traditional bowhunting in Michigan. 

That first summer in 1990 a traditional archery jamboree was held at the grounds of the Lincoln Bowmen Club near Detroit, Michigan. It included a large traditional archery shoot, guest speaker, raffle, and a hunting slide show. The excellent turnout only added to the growing excitement about MTB. 

At this time a few serious members were leading the way and making the decisions of MTB. After only a year the membership was pushing towards 200 and included many of the finest bowhunters in Michigan and around the country. After only two years the membership grew to over 300. It was decided that MTB needed a structured leadership, through this a twelve-member board of directors was set up. 

Since then our group has grown too; 300 plus.  We have had over thirty Jamborees, host an annual banquets, rabbit hunts, and members only whitetail hunting camp. MTB is also committed to making sure that we preserve bowhunting and the opportunity only an archery season can provide. We have been fighting against Michigan legislation that would limit or greatly affect opportunities for the traditional bowhunter. We are proud to stand against the inclusion of the Air Gun as well as putting a stop to a 2-week firearm tag, both having attempted to be legalized during the archery only season.

MTB is excited about our growth and are welcoming all our new members.