A large majority (83%) of “sportsmen” (hunters and anglers) say they will vote in the November 2008 U.S. presidential election, according to the lobbyist group, the Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation. Nearly half of hunters and anglers (45%) are likely to vote for John McCain and 31% are likely to vote for Barack Obama. By a 2 to 1 margin, sportsmen said that McCain would be a better president on related issues than Obama.

Among sportsmen, Republican John McCain holds a significant lead over his opponent Barack Obama, with a 14-point margin according to the survey. Politically engaged sportsman see John McCain as a supporter of their concern. A majority said that it is important for a candidate to share their views on hunting and fishing issues, although the economy, homeland security, and the war in Iraq are top concerns for all Americans.

In addition, a significant portion of sportsmen say this November’s election is more important than past elections regarding their ability to hunt and fish. On the specific topic of gun rights, sportsmen say firearm issues are more important now than in past elections. Three-quarters (74%) say they would prefer to elect a president who personally owns firearms.