Topeka ? The state should allow more out-of-state bow hunters to hunt deer, former Gov. Mike Hayden said.

Hayden, who was recommended Thursday for confirmation as state wildlife and parks secretary, told the Senate Natural Resources Committee that issuing more archery permits during deer season would represent economic development.

Last year, the state issued about 3,000 archery permits to nonresidents. State law limits the number of such permits to 15 percent of the number issued to Kansans.

“We probably are too restrictive on archery hunters,” Hayden said. “That’s an area where we could expand and bring in a lot more money.”

Committee Chairman Robert Tyson, R-Parker, took issue with the suggestion.

“A lot of rifle hunters feel bow hunters are kind of taking over right now,” said Tyson.

The 12-day firearms season for deer begins the Wednesday after Thanksgiving, while the 80-day bow-hunting season starts Oct. 1.

But Hayden said bow hunters have far less effect on the deer herd, because only one in five kills a deer. Firearms are becoming more accurate, too.

“It is easy to overharvest, particularly the trophy animals,” he said.