State Guide

Michigan Hunting Guide

Complete Michigan hunting guide. Michigan hunting seasons, license costs, bag limits, and regulations for all major game species. Updated for the current season.

Wildlife Agency

Michigan DNR

Official Site

Hunter safety course required for first-time buyers

Michigan Hunting Seasons

Whitetail Deer

Res: $20 Non-res: $151

Season Type	Opens	Closes
Archery	Oct 1	Nov 14
Rifle	Nov 15	Nov 30
Muzzleloader	Dec 1	Dec 17

Bag limits: daily: 1, season: 2 (1 antlered, 1 antlerless with combo license)

Antler point restrictions in some Deer Management Units. Liberty and Independence hunts available for disabled hunters.

Turkey

Res: $15 Non-res: $75

Season Type	Opens	Closes
Shotgun	Apr 17	May 31
Archery	Sep 15	Nov 14

Bag limits: daily: 1, season: 2 (1 spring, 1 fall)

Spring season uses hunt period system. Fall season open statewide. Private and public land permits available.

Bear

Res: $15 Non-res: $150

Season Type	Opens	Closes
Rifle	Sep 10	Oct 26

Bag limits: daily: 1, season: 1

Bear license required through lottery system. Bait stations allowed with registration. Dogs may be used in designated areas.

Duck/Waterfowl

Res: $20 Non-res: $151

Season Type	Opens	Closes
Shotgun	Oct 7	Dec 3

Bag limits: daily: 6, season: No season limit

Federal and state waterfowl stamps required. Zones: North, Middle, South with varying dates.

Planning Tools

Hunt Cost Calculator — budget your full hunt cost
Season Tag Planner — never miss an opening day
Preference Point Tracker — when should you burn your points?

Michigan Hunting Guides

destinations

Michigan Deer Hunting: Complete Guide to the Great Lakes State

Michigan Hunting FAQ

Do I need a hunting license in Michigan?

Yes. All hunters in Michigan must hold a valid hunting license from the Michigan DNR. Non-residents typically pay higher fees. A hunter safety course is required for first-time license buyers.

What is the hunting license cost in Michigan?

Michigan license costs vary by species. Whitetail Deer: resident $20, non-resident $151. Turkey: resident $15, non-resident $75.

When is deer season in Michigan?

Michigan deer seasons: Archery: Oct 1 - Nov 14, Rifle: Nov 15 - Nov 30, Muzzleloader: Dec 1 - Dec 17.

Does Michigan require a hunter safety course?

Yes, Michigan requires hunter education certification for all first-time hunters. The course covers firearm safety, hunting laws, wildlife conservation, and ethical hunting practices.

Who manages hunting regulations in Michigan?

The Michigan DNR manages all hunting licenses, regulations, and wildlife management in Michigan. Their website (https://www.michigan.gov/dnr) has current season dates, license purchasing, and regulation booklets.