I doubt your seeing more hunters, yes more bowhunters but they are already probably gun hunters converting too.

Alot has to do with the availability of "package" bows etc with the more readily available "shops" like Walmart, Bass Pros, Cabelas and Gander Mountains poping up. Many of these new "bowhunters" might not have frequented a mom and pop pro shop/store but walk by the archery equipment every time in the "big" chain stores. They pick up a bow, shoot and think I can do this.

As hard as it can get hunting deer with a gun in a crowded woods, it's ten fold as hard with a bow. I feel for anyone in an overcrowded neck of a woods.