I'm currently in north-central illinois, looking to move to a more /out/ state where I can explore national forests and maybe mountains too. I also love kayaking and fishing, and would like to learn hunting from someone with experience.

Anyway, I've narrowed it down to two locations. Marquette, Michigan, in the upper peninsula, and Missoula, Montana.

Michigan would be a days drive away from family, a huge plus. I also love cold weather and snow, so no worries there. But I've heard their summers are plagued by biting insects (black flies, no-see-ums, ticks, and more). Seems prerty brutal by some accounts, and I dont want the few summer months to be shit on by these things.

I've done less research into Missoula, but it looks like an /out/ paradise. Surrounded my mountains and national forests, lakes, and rivers. A good sized town too for some balance. Glacier National Park is close by too. Only problem is its a 22hr drive home :(

Any anons live in these areas? I'd love for some first hand input and to ask you specific questions on these areas.