Successful applicants must attend a half-day training session near the elk hunt area on the day before their scheduled hunt. The location of the sessions will be provided to successful applicants. The training session will cover hunter safety, elk behavior, marksmanship, carcass handling, hunting rules and regulations, hunting tips and recommended hunt locations. Following the session, hunters will be issued their licenses, along with materials and information to help their efforts afield.

Hunting for Michigan elk is becoming increasingly challenging. There are fewer elk, and they are becoming more wary. Temperatures range from -20 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Many people walk for long periods over multiple days before having an opportunity to take an elk. Once taken, moving an animal roughly four times the size of a white-tailed deer can be difficult. Preseason scouting is important, as is good marksmanship and knowledge of the animal. Preparation for the hunt will increase the enjoyment of the elk hunting experience.