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October 16, 2025
Maple River State Game Area – spanning south-central Gratiot, northwest Clinton and northeast Ionia counties – is one of mid-Michigan’s premier waterfowl hunting destinations. However, ongoing drought conditions have led to extremely low water levels across the managed wetland units near U.S. 127, which will affect waterfowl habitat and hunting opportunities this season.
Hunters are encouraged to scout alternative areas before heading out.
With little measurable rainfall since early August, water levels in the Maple River remain well below normal. The wetland units at Maple River State Game Area rely on river water pumped in before the hunting season to create habitat for migrating waterfowl. This year, the low river levels have made it impossible for Michigan Department of Natural Resources staff to pump enough water from the river to fill these impoundments. As a result, many units will have little or no standing water throughout much of the season unless the area receives significant rain.
See map of wetland areas: Maple River State Game Area - Wetlands Wildlife Management Units (East Unit) managed hunt area map.
While water levels have reduced access and opportunity for waterfowl hunting this fall, Maple River State Game Area still offers quality opportunities for deer and small game hunting. Hunters are encouraged to explore the dry impoundments and surrounding uplands for alternative experiences.
Additional maps for the Maple River State Game Area are available on the DNR State game/wildlife areas webpage.
For more information, contact the DNR Rose Lake Field Office at 517-641-4092.
