The hunting regulations summaries are a condensed summaries of the full regulations and legal descriptions found in this Wildlife Conservation Order, issued by the Natural Resources Commission.
Michigan has 11 species of small game that can be harvested using hunting methods. In Michigan, small game species include bobwhite quail, cottontail rabbit, crow, ground squirrel (including chipmunk), ring-necked pheasant, ruffed grouse, sharp-tailed grouse, snowshoe hare, squirrel (fox, gray and red), woodchuck and woodcock. Woodcock and crows are considered migratory game birds. For more information on small game management in Michigan, visit Michigan.gov/SmallGame.
Healthy habitat is an important part of managing small game, including preventing the spread of invasive species. Protect habitats by starting each day with clean gear and equipment and decontaminate before leaving the location.
Return to table of contents| Season: | Area: | Season dates: | Notes: |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bobwhite quail hunting: | Select counties1 | Oct. 20 – Nov. 14 | Special rules for Ionia and Highland field trial areas apply. See the State parks and recreation areas section. |
| Cottontail rabbit hunting: | Statewide | Sept. 15 – March 31 | N/A |
| Crow hunting: | Statewide | Aug. 1 – Sept. 30 Feb. 1 – March 31 |
N/A |
| Ground squirrel hunting (chipmunk included): |
Statewide | Year-round | Ground squirrels can also be taken using legal trapping methods. |
| Ring-necked pheasant hunting: | Zone 12 | Oct. 10 – 31 | See the Pheasant license section for license requirements. Only male pheasants can be harvested. |
| Ring-necked pheasant hunting: | Zone 2 | Oct. 20 – Nov. 14 | See the Pheasant license section for license requirements. Only male pheasants can be harvested. |
| Ring-necked pheasant hunting: | Zone 3 | Oct. 20 – Nov. 14 | See the Pheasant license section for license requirements. Only male pheasants can be harvested. |
| Ring-necked pheasant hunting: | December pheasant management unit3 | Dec. 1 – Jan. 1 | See the Pheasant license section for license requirements. Only male pheasants can be harvested. |
| Ruffed grouse hunting: | Statewide | Sept. 15 – Nov. 14 Dec. 1 – Jan. 1 |
N/A |
| Sharp-tailed grouse hunting: | Zone 1 | Oct. 10 – 31 | See the Sharp-tailed grouse stamp section for stamp requirements. |
| Snowshoe hare hunting: | Statewide | Sept. 15 – March 31 | N/A |
| Squirrel hunting (fox and/or gray; black phase included): | Statewide | Sept. 15 – March 31 | N/A |
| Squirrel hunting (red): | Statewide | Year-round | Red squirrels can also be taken using legal trapping methods. |
| Woodchuck hunting: | Statewide | Year-round | N/A |
| Woodcock hunting: | Statewide | Sept. 15 – Oct. 29 | See the Woodcock stamp section for stamp and HIP requirements. |
1Bobwhite quail can be hunted in Branch, Calhoun, Clinton, Eaton, Genesee, Gratiot, Hillsdale, Huron, Ingham, Ionia, Jackson, Kent, Lapeer, Lenawee, Livingston, Macomb, Monroe, Montcalm, Oakland, Saginaw, St. Clair, St. Joseph, Sanilac, Shiawassee, Tuscola, Washtenaw and Wayne counties. All other counties are closed to quail hunting.
2Zone 1 pheasant management unit includes all of Menominee County and portions of Delta, Dickinson, Iron and Marquette counties. The remaining portion of Zone 1 is closed to pheasant hunting.
3December pheasant management unit includes all of Zone 3.
Will there be any pheasant releases in 2025?
Yes. This year, pheasants will be released on 13 state game/wildlife areas throughout southern Michigan. Maps of parking lots for the release sites can be found at
Michigan.gov/SmallGame. Releases will occur for the Oct. 20 – Nov. 14 season AND the December 1 – January 1 season for all 13 release sites. Pheasant release locations include:
Will there be any recruitment or “learn to hunt pheasant” events in 2025?
At the time this regulations summary was printed, it was unknown if pheasant releases for pheasant hunting recruitment activities would be able to occur in 2025. If available, event dates and registration details will be posted at
Michigan.gov/SmallGame.
Porcupine and Russian boar may be hunted and trapped, and feral pigeon, house sparrow and starling may be hunted, year-round, statewide with a valid base license. Visit the the Russian boar section for more information on Russian boar.
Return to table of contentsCottontail rabbit, fox squirrel, gray squirrel, ground squirrel, red squirrel and woodchuck may be taken year-round, using all legal hunting and trapping methods for those species as permitted by law, on private property without a license or written permit when doing, or physically present where they could imminently cause, damage. Damage means physical harm to forest products, roads, dams, buildings, orchards, apiaries, livestock and horticultural or agricultural crops. For additional information (including additional trapping methods for small game species), please see Wildlife Conservation Order section 5.56.
Crow, house sparrow and starling may be taken if doing or about to do damage to private property or committing or about to commit depredations. A license or written permit is not needed.
Return to table of contentsThe pheasant management unit open to hunting Oct. 10–31 in Zone 1 (Upper Peninsula) includes all of Menominee County and portions of Delta, Dickinson, Iron and Marquette counties. Zones 2 and 3 (Lower Peninsula) are open to pheasant hunting Oct. 20 – Nov. 14. Zone 3 is open to pheasant hunting Dec. 1 – Jan. 1. For detailed descriptions of pheasant management unit boundaries, visit Michigan.gov/DNRLaws or contact a DNR customer service center, listed at Michigan.gov/ContactDNR.
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The sharp-tailed grouse management unit open to hunting Oct. 10–31 in Zone 1 (Upper Peninsula) includes the area shown below. For detailed descriptions of sharp-tailed grouse management unit boundaries, visit Michigan.gov/DNRLaws or contact a DNR customer service center, listed at Michigan.gov/ContactDNR.
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What are the bag limits for small game?
The daily bag limits and possession limits for small game species are listed below.
| Species | Daily bag limit | Possession limit |
|---|---|---|
| Bobwhite quail | 5 | 10 |
| Cottontail rabbit and/or snowshoe hare | 5 | 10 |
| Crow | No limit | No limit |
| Ground squirrel (including chipmunk) | No limit | No limit |
| Ring-necked pheasant (male only) | 2 | 4 |
| Ruffed grouse (Zone 1 and Zone 2) | 5 | 10 |
| Ruffed grouse (Zone 3) | 3 | 6 |
| Sharp-tailed grouse | 2 | 4* |
| Squirrel (fox, gray, black phase included) | 5 | 10 |
| Squirrel (red) | No limit | No limit |
| Woodchuck | No limit | No limit |
| Woodcock | 3 | 9 |
*Sharp-tailed grouse have a season limit of six birds.
Can I harvest more of a small game species after I have reached the daily bag limit?
No. You cannot take or attempt to take in any one day more than one daily limit per small game species listed above. You cannot kill or wound any game animal without making a reasonable attempt to retrieve it and include it in your daily bag limit. Wounded game animals reduced to possession should be immediately killed and included in the daily bag limit.
If I wound or kill a game animal, do I have to include it as part of my daily bag limit?
Yes. If you wound or kill a game animal and recover the animal, you must include it in your daily bag limit.
| License type: | Youth age 9 and under: | Youth age 10–16: | Resident age 17–64: | Resident senior age 65+: | Nonresident age 17+: |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Base license* — valid through March 31, 2026: | N/A | $6 | $11 | $5 | $151 |
| DNR Sportcard2: | $1 | $1 | $1 | $1 | $1 |
| Harvest Information Program endorsement: | $0 | $0 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
| Hunt/fish combo license*: | N/A | N/A | $76 | $43 | $266 |
| Inclusive mentored license3: | $0 | $0 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
| Mentored youth license: | $7.50 | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Pheasant license4: | N/A | N/A | $25 | $25 | $25 |
| Pure Michigan Hunt application: | N/A | $5 | $5 | $5 | $5 |
| Sharp-tailed grouse stamp: | $0 | $0 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
| Small game 3-day nonresident license: | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | $50 |
| Small game 7-day nonresident license: | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | $80 |
| Woodcock stamp: | $0 | $0 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
*One dollar from each of these licenses will be used to educate the public on the benefits of hunting, fishing and trapping in Michigan and the impact of these activities on the conservation, preservation and management of the state’s natural resources.
1Nonresidents under 17 years old may purchase a resident base license.
2The DNR Sportcard is not required if you have a valid state-issued driver’s license or ID card.
3The inclusive mentored license package is only available for qualified individuals at DNR offices, online through Michigan.gov/DNRlicenses or through the Michigan DNR Hunt Fish app.
4A pheasant hunting license is required for pheasant hunters 18 years old and older hunting on public lands and Hunting Access Program lands. See the Pheasant license section for exceptions and additional information.
Do I need a hunting license to target practice?
No. You do not need a hunting license when target shooting for practice or sighting in a firearm at an identifiable, artificially constructed target and when there is no attempt to take game.
Do I need a hunting license to hunt on a game bird hunting preserve?
No. You do not need a hunting license to hunt farm-raised game birds on a licensed game bird hunting preserve. However, to take wild game species on a game bird hunting preserve, hunters must have all appropriate licenses, including a federal duck stamp if applicable, and follow state laws governing the hunting of each species.
Can I use someone else’s hunting license?
No. You cannot use another person’s hunting license or allow another person to use your hunting license.
Is hunter education required for purchasing a license?
Yes. If you were born on or after Jan. 1, 1960, you must present your hunter education certificate or previous hunting license (other than a base apprentice license) to purchase your license. Individuals who are qualified to hunt under the Mentored Hunting Program are exempt from the hunter education requirement (see the Mentored hunting section for more details). A valid hunter education certificate from another state meets this requirement. Michigan’s hunter education courses are offered throughout the year around the state. The online course can be found at
Michigan.gov/HunterEducation. For a replacement Michigan hunter education certificate, visit
Michigan.gov/RecreationalSafety.
What are the rules for a youth hunter 10–16 years old who has a hunter education certificate?
A youth hunter 10–16 years old who has a hunter education certificate must be accompanied by an adult 18 years old or older to hunt, unless the youth is hunting on land where a parent or guardian regularly lives.
What is the Mentored Hunting Program?
The Mentored Hunting Program is a set of rules that establishes the mentored youth license package and the inclusive mentored license package.
What are the rules for a mentor participating in the Mentored Hunting Program?
A mentor is responsible for the mentored hunter’s actions in the field. A mentor must ensure the hunting device (shotgun, rifle, bow, etc.) used by the mentored hunter is properly fitted and appropriately suited for the mentored hunter. A mentor can only carry two hunting devices in the field. To participate as a mentor in the Mentored Hunting Program, you must meet all of the following qualifications:
What is the mentored youth license?
The mentored youth license is a license package that allows youth hunters 9 years old and younger to hunt small game, waterfowl, turkey (spring and fall) and deer, trap furbearers and fish for all species with a qualified mentor. It also allows the mentored youth hunter to apply for or purchase additional licenses including antlerless deer, bear and elk. The mentored youth license and kill tags will remain valid for the duration of the license year, even if the mentored youth hunter turns 10 years old during the year.
I am 9 years old or younger and not a resident of Michigan. Can I purchase a mentored youth license?
Yes. The mentored youth license is available to both residents and nonresidents who are 9 years old or younger.
What is the inclusive mentored license?
The inclusive mentored license is a license package that allows individuals with developmental disabilities to hunt small game, waterfowl, turkey (spring and fall) and deer, trap furbearers and fish for all species with a qualified mentor. It also allows the mentored hunter to apply for or purchase additional licenses including antlerless deer, bear and elk.
Who qualifies for the inclusive mentored license?
To qualify for the inclusive mentored license, one of the following must apply:
What is the Apprentice Hunting Program?
The Apprentice Hunting Program allows a person who does not have a hunter education certificate and is 10 years old or older to hunt during the current hunting seasons with a mentor who is at least 21 years old. An apprentice hunter will need to purchase a base apprentice license to participate. Additional licenses are required to hunt big game, furbearers and waterfowl.
I am not a resident of Michigan. Can I purchase a base apprentice license?
Yes. The base apprentice hunting license is available to residents and nonresidents who do not have a hunter education certificate.
How many times can I purchase a base apprentice license?
You can purchase a base apprentice license for up to two license years before you must successfully complete a hunter education course and purchase a regular base license.
I am an apprentice hunter. Can I hunt by myself?
No. If you are licensed under the Apprentice Hunting Program, you must be accompanied by someone 21 years old or older who has a regular base license and a current-year hunting license for the same game you are hunting. If you are an apprentice hunter who is 10–16 years old, your accompanying mentor must be your parent, guardian or someone designated by your parent or guardian who is at least 21 years old. A mentor can accompany no more than two apprentice hunters while hunting.
How close do I need to be to my accompanying mentor during the hunt?
Your accompanying mentor must be able to come to your immediate aid and stay within a distance that permits uninterrupted, unaided visual and auditory contact.
Additional resources for hunters with disabilities are available through Michigan Operation Freedom Outdoors. Visit MIFO.org for more information.
I am legally blind. Can I hunt with a laser-sighting device?
Yes. Legally blind hunters can use laser-sighting devices to take game, subject to all other regulations, with a firearm or crossbow if all the following conditions are met:
Can I get a permit to hunt using a laser-sighting device?
Yes. Hunters with other permanent disabilities can apply to the DNR Law Enforcement Division for a permit to use a laser-sighting device with a firearm or crossbow to take game. Subject to all other regulations, a permittee can take game with the use of a laser-sighting device only if accompanied by a sighted person who is at least 18 years old and licensed for the same game (other than with a base apprentice license). For application information, please call 517-284-6000.
Do I qualify as a Michigan resident?
To qualify for as a Michigan resident, you must meet one of the following criteria:
I own land in Michigan but live in a different state. Can I purchase a resident hunting license?
No. The ownership of land in Michigan by itself is not a qualification for a resident license. You would be considered a nonresident.
I am a Michigan veteran with a disability. Do I get a discount?
Yes. Michigan resident veterans with a disability are eligible to obtain any hunting license that does not require a separate application free of charge, if one of the following conditions is met:
Documentation of eligibility from the Veterans Administration stating either of the above conditions should be in the possession of a veteran when obtaining free licenses and while afield.
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I am a resident of Michigan and in the military. Do I get a discount?
Yes. If you are a full-time, active-duty member of the federal U.S. military and have maintained Michigan resident status, your hunting license fees are waived, except for hunting licenses obtained through a drawing. You must present military ID, leave papers, duty papers, military orders or other verifying materials that you are an active-duty member of the military, along with a valid Michigan driver’s license or voter registration card.
I am not a resident of Michigan and in the military. Do I get a discount?
No. Hunting license fees are not waived for nonresidents, even if you are a full-time, active-duty member of the federal U.S. military.
Can I hunt with a tribal member?
Yes. You can hunt with a tribal member who is present and actively hunting if you possess a state-issued hunting license for the applicable species and season for which you are hunting. You must still follow all applicable state small game hunting regulations.
What is a DNR Sportcard?
A DNR Sportcard serves as a valid form of identification for people without a driver’s license. There are no age restrictions or residency requirements for purchase. A DNR Sportcard is not required if you have a valid state-issued driver’s license or ID card. A DNR Sportcard with accurate information can be used from year to year.
What is the hunt/fish combo license?
The hunt/fish combo license is a license package that includes an annual fishing license good for all species on any Michigan body of water, a base license that allows small game hunting and a deer combo license (regular and restricted kill tags) valid in both archery and firearm seasons.
What is a base license?
A base license is required for everyone who hunts in Michigan. The base license provides funding for habitat and conservation work on both public and private land and supports the work of conservation officers and field staff to ensure safe, legal hunting practices are followed. The base license is not a kill tag and is used for hunting small game. Additional licenses are required to hunt and trap other species. Hunters are always encouraged to carry their base license when hunting.
What small game species can I hunt with my base license?
A base license allows you to hunt bobwhite quail, coot (see HIP endorsement), cottontail rabbit, coyote (resident only), crow, ground squirrel (including chipmunk), rail (see HIP endorsement), ring-necked pheasant (see Pheasant license), ruffed grouse, sharp-tailed grouse (see Sharp-tailed grouse stamp), snipe (see HIP endorsement), snowshoe hare, squirrel (fox, gray and red; black phase included), woodchuck and woodcock (see HIP endorsement and Woodcock stamp) during the open season for each species. A base license is required to hunt small game on your own enclosed farmlands where you live.
I plan to purchase a nonresident small game three-day or seven-day license. Do I need a base license?
No. A base license is not required to purchase a nonresident small game three-day or seven-day license. Nonresidents may choose to purchase the three-day or seven-day small game license instead of an annual base license. You can purchase multiple three-day or seven-day small game licenses throughout the license year.
What is a pheasant license?
A pheasant license is required to hunt pheasants on any public lands in the Lower Peninsula or on lands enrolled in the Hunting Access Program. The pheasant license is not a kill tag. Public Act 262 of 2020, which implemented the public-land pheasant license requirement, has a sunset date of Jan. 1, 2026.
Who does not need a pheasant license to hunt pheasants?
The following people do not need a pheasant license to hunt pheasants in Michigan:
What is the Harvest Information Program?
The Harvest Information Program is a cooperative effort between state wildlife agencies and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. It was implemented to improve knowledge about the harvest of migratory game birds. Any person who hunts migratory game birds (except crows) in Michigan is required to register with the HIP. The HIP provides the USFWS with a national registry of potential migratory bird hunters from which they could select participants for federal harvest surveys.
How do I receive a HIP endorsement?
When you purchase a qualifying hunting license, you will be asked HIP survey questions about your migratory bird harvest during the previous year. The HIP endorsement, “Migratory Bird Hunter,” will be printed on your hunting license. A current-year HIP endorsement must be carried when hunting woodcock, snipe, coot and rails.
What is a sharp-tailed grouse stamp?
A sharp-tailed grouse stamp is required to hunt sharp-tailed grouse in Michigan. The sharp-tailed grouse stamp is not a kill tag and does not include the HIP endorsement.
What is a woodcock stamp?
A woodcock stamp is required to hunt woodcock in Michigan. The woodcock stamp is not a kill tag. The woodcock stamp includes the HIP endorsement.
What is the Pure Michigan Hunt?
The Pure Michigan Hunt is a chance at the hunt of a lifetime for three lucky hunters. Winners may purchase one elk (resident only), bear, antlerless deer, spring turkey, fall turkey and base hunting license at a total cost of $3. They may also participate in one reserved waterfowl hunt at a managed waterfowl area or have first selection of another hunt choice at any managed waterfowl area if approved by the local area manager. Also, winners will receive a prize package with thousands and can choose to transfer their Pure Michigan Hunt opportunities to other individuals. Each PMH license will be valid for the applicable 2026 species hunting season and able to be used in any open hunt area for that species, including sections on Drummond Island. Licenses will be subject to all 2026 hunting laws.
How does the Pure Michigan Hunt drawing system work?
Hunters are selected for a Pure Michigan Hunt license package using a random drawing system. In the license drawing, Michigan residents and nonresidents are equally eligible for selection and license purchase.
What is the application period for the 2026 Pure Michigan Hunt drawing?
The application period is Jan. 1 – Dec. 31, 2025.
How many Pure Michigan Hunt applications can I purchase?
You can purchase as many Pure Michigan Hunt applications as you wish until Dec. 31, 2025.
I am an apprentice hunter. Can I apply in the drawing?
No. You must be eligible to purchase regular, nonapprentice hunting licenses to apply in the PMH drawing.
I am not a resident of Michigan. Can I apply in the drawing?
Yes. You can apply in the Pure Michigan Hunt drawing as a nonresident. However, if you are selected, you will not be eligible to receive the PMH elk license.
When will the 2026 Pure Michigan Hunt winners be announced?
Three lucky hunters will be drawn in January 2026, and the winners will be announced via Facebook video broadcast, with final confirmation by phone. Drawing results are posted online the week following the video announcement.
Where can I find more information?
For more information on the Pure Michigan Hunt drawing, visit Michigan.gov/PMH.
What identification do I need to purchase a license?
To purchase a hunting license in Michigan, you must have one of the following forms of identification:
Do I have to carry my hunting license(s) when hunting?
Yes. When hunting, you must carry your applicable hunting license(s) and the identification used to purchase the license(s) and present them upon demand of a Michigan conservation officer, a tribal conservation officer or any law enforcement officer. If you are using an electronic copy of a license or stamp, you must be able to present the electronic license or stamp on your mobile device.
Where can I purchase a Michigan hunting license?
You can purchase a Michigan hunting license from any license agent, online at Michigan.gov/DNRLicenses or through the Michigan DNR Hunt Fish app. The app is available for download at the Google Play Store or the Apple App Store. Find a license agent at Michigan.gov/DNRLicenseAgents.
Where can I purchase the inclusive mentored license package?
You can purchase an inclusive mentored license package from any DNR office, online through Michigan.gov/DNRLicenses or through the Michigan DNR Hunt Fish app.
What do I do if I lost my hunting license?
If you originally purchased your hunting license at a license agent or online, you can visit a license agent and have your license(s) reprinted ($3 for non-kill tag replacement and full price for kill tag replacement). You must provide the identification used to purchase the original license.
If you originally purchased your license online, you received an email containing a PDF file of your online purchases (non-kill tag(s)), including your license and receipt. Access your PDF for reprinting as needed. If you have an online account, you may log in at Michigan.gov/DNRLicenses to reprint your non-kill tag documents. Access your purchase history to reprint current licenses. Call 517-284-6057 for licensing assistance.
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When is it legal for me to hunt small game?
Legal hunting hours for small game (one-half hour before sunrise to one-half hour after sunset) for Zone A are printed in the table. Note: Woodcock hunting season hours are sunrise to sunset. To determine the opening (a.m.) or closing (p.m.) time in another time zone, add the minutes shown on the map for the zone to the times from the Zone A hunting hours table. The hunting hours listed in the table reflect Eastern Time, adjusted for daylight saving time where appropriate. If you are hunting in Gogebic, Iron, Dickinson or Menominee counties (Central Time), you must make an additional adjustment to the printed time by subtracting one hour. For hunt dates not listed in the table, please consult your local newspaper or noaa.gov.
Isle Royale, part of Keweenaw County (not pictured), is closed to hunting and trapping.
Hunting hours listed are one-half hour before sunrise to one-half hour after sunset (adjusted for daylight saving time).
| Date | Time Zone A a.m. | Time Zone A p.m. |
|---|---|---|
| Sept. 1 | 6:28 | 8:36 |
| Sept. 2 | 6:29 | 8:34 |
| Sept. 3 | 6:30 | 8:32 |
| Sept. 4 | 6:31 | 8:30 |
| Sept. 5 | 6:32 | 8:29 |
| Sept. 6 | 6:33 | 8:27 |
| Sept. 7 | 6:34 | 8:25 |
| Sept. 8 | 6:35 | 8:24 |
| Sept. 9 | 6:36 | 8:22 |
| Sept. 10 | 6:37 | 8:20 |
| Sept. 11 | 6:38 | 8:18 |
| Sept. 12 | 6:39 | 8:17 |
| Sept. 13 | 6:40 | 8:15 |
| Sept. 14 | 6:41 | 8:13 |
| Sept. 15 | 6:42 | 8:11 |
| Sept. 16 | 6:44 | 8:09 |
| Sept. 17 | 6:45 | 8:08 |
| Sept. 18 | 6:46 | 8:06 |
| Sept. 19 | 6:47 | 8:04 |
| Sept. 20 | 6:48 | 8:02 |
| Sept. 21 | 6:49 | 8:01 |
| Sept. 22 | 6:50 | 7:59 |
| Sept. 23 | 6:51 | 7:57 |
| Sept. 24 | 6:52 | 7:55 |
| Sept. 25 | 6:53 | 7:54 |
| Sept. 26 | 6:54 | 7:52 |
| Sept. 27 | 6:55 | 7:50 |
| Sept. 28 | 6:56 | 7:48 |
| Sept. 29 | 6:57 | 7:47 |
| Sept. 30 | 6:59 | 7:45 |
| Oct. 1 | 7:00 | 7:43 |
| Oct. 2 | 7:01 | 7:41 |
| Oct. 3 | 7:02 | 7:40 |
| Oct. 4 | 7:03 | 7:38 |
| Oct. 5 | 7:04 | 7:36 |
| Oct. 6 | 7:05 | 7:35 |
| Oct. 7 | 7:06 | 7:33 |
| Oct. 8 | 7:07 | 7:31 |
| Oct. 9 | 7:09 | 7:29 |
| Oct. 10 | 7:10 | 7:28 |
| Oct. 11 | 7:11 | 7:26 |
| Oct. 12 | 7:12 | 7:24 |
| Oct. 13 | 7:13 | 7:23 |
| Oct. 14 | 7:14 | 7:21 |
| Oct. 15 | 7:15 | 7:20 |
| Oct. 16 | 7:17 | 7:18 |
| Oct. 17 | 7:18 | 7:16 |
| Oct. 18 | 7:19 | 7:15 |
| Oct. 19 | 7:20 | 7:13 |
| Oct. 20 | 7:21 | 7:12 |
| Oct. 21 | 7:22 | 7:10 |
| Oct. 22 | 7:24 | 7:09 |
| Oct. 23 | 7:25 | 7:07 |
| Oct. 24 | 7:26 | 7:06 |
| Oct. 25 | 7:27 | 7:04 |
| Oct. 26 | 7:28 | 7:03 |
| Oct. 27 | 7:30 | 7:02 |
| Oct. 28 | 7:31 | 7:00 |
| Oct. 29 | 7:32 | 6:59 |
| Oct. 30 | 7:33 | 6:58 |
| Oct. 31 | 7:35 | 6:56 |
| Nov. 1 | 7:36 | 6:55 |
| Nov. 2 | 6:37 | 5:54 |
| Nov. 3 | 6:38 | 5:53 |
| Nov. 4 | 6:40 | 5:51 |
| Nov. 5 | 6:41 | 5:50 |
| Nov. 6 | 6:42 | 5:49 |
| Nov. 7 | 6:43 | 5:48 |
| Nov. 8 | 6:45 | 5:47 |
| Nov. 9 | 6:46 | 5:46 |
| Nov. 10 | 6:47 | 5:45 |
| Nov. 11 | 6:48 | 5:44 |
| Nov. 12 | 6:50 | 5:43 |
| Nov. 13 | 6:51 | 5:42 |
| Nov. 14 | 6:52 | 5:41 |
| Nov. 15 | 6:53 | 5:40 |
| Nov. 16 | 6:55 | 5:39 |
| Nov. 17 | 6:56 | 5:38 |
| Nov. 18 | 6:57 | 5:37 |
| Nov. 19 | 6:58 | 5:37 |
| Nov. 20 | 6:59 | 5:36 |
| Nov. 21 | 7:01 | 5:35 |
| Nov. 22 | 7:02 | 5:35 |
| Nov. 23 | 7:03 | 5:34 |
| Nov. 24 | 7:04 | 5:33 |
| Nov. 25 | 7:05 | 5:33 |
| Nov. 26 | 7:06 | 5:32 |
| Nov. 27 | 7:08 | 5:32 |
| Nov. 28 | 7:09 | 5:32 |
| Nov. 29 | 7:10 | 5:31 |
| Nov. 30 | 7:11 | 5:31 |
Hunting hours listed are one-half hour before sunrise to sunset.
| Date | Time Zone A a.m. | Time Zone A p.m. |
|---|---|---|
| Dec. 1 | 7:12 | 5:31 |
| Dec. 2 | 7:13 | 5:30 |
| Dec. 3 | 7:14 | 5:30 |
| Dec. 4 | 7:15 | 5:30 |
| Dec. 5 | 7:16 | 5:30 |
| Dec. 6 | 7:17 | 5:30 |
| Dec. 7 | 7:18 | 5:30 |
| Dec. 8 | 7:19 | 5:30 |
| Dec. 9 | 7:20 | 5:30 |
| Dec. 10 | 7:21 | 5:30 |
| Dec. 11 | 7:21 | 5:30 |
| Dec. 12 | 7:22 | 5:30 |
| Dec. 13 | 7:23 | 5:30 |
| Dec. 14 | 7:24 | 5:30 |
| Dec. 15 | 7:25 | 5:31 |
| Dec. 16 | 7:25 | 5:31 |
| Dec. 17 | 7:26 | 5:31 |
| Dec. 18 | 7:26 | 5:32 |
| Dec. 19 | 7:27 | 5:32 |
| Dec. 20 | 7:28 | 5:32 |
| Dec. 21 | 7:28 | 5:33 |
| Dec. 22 | 7:29 | 5:33 |
| Dec. 23 | 7:29 | 5:34 |
| Dec. 24 | 7:29 | 5:35 |
| Dec. 25 | 7:30 | 5:35 |
| Dec. 26 | 7:30 | 5:36 |
| Dec. 27 | 7:30 | 5:37 |
| Dec. 28 | 7:31 | 5:37 |
| Dec. 29 | 7:31 | 5:38 |
| Dec. 30 | 7:31 | 5:39 |
| Dec. 31 | 7:31 | 5:40 |
| Jan. 1 | 7:31 | 5:41 |
| Jan. 2 | 7:31 | 5:41 |
| Jan. 3 | 7:31 | 5:42 |
| Jan. 4 | 7:31 | 5:43 |
| Jan. 5 | 7:31 | 5:44 |
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| Jan. 9 | 7:31 | 5:48 |
| Jan. 10 | 7:30 | 5:49 |
| Jan. 11 | 7:30 | 5:50 |
| Jan. 12 | 7:30 | 5:52 |
| Jan. 13 | 7:29 | 5:53 |
| Jan. 14 | 7:29 | 5:54 |
| Jan. 15 | 7:29 | 5:55 |
| Jan. 16 | 7:28 | 5:56 |
| Jan. 17 | 7:28 | 5:57 |
| Jan. 18 | 7:27 | 5:59 |
| Jan. 19 | 7:26 | 6:00 |
| Jan. 20 | 7:26 | 6:01 |
| Jan. 21 | 7:25 | 6:02 |
| Jan. 22 | 7:24 | 6:04 |
| Jan. 23 | 7:24 | 6:05 |
| Jan. 24 | 7:23 | 6:06 |
| Jan. 25 | 7:22 | 6:07 |
| Jan. 26 | 7:21 | 6:09 |
| Jan. 27 | 7:20 | 6:10 |
| Jan. 28 | 7:20 | 6:11 |
| Jan. 29 | 7:19 | 6:13 |
| Jan. 30 | 7:18 | 6:14 |
| Jan. 31 | 7:17 | 6:15 |
| Feb. 1 | 7:16 | 6:16 |
| Feb. 2 | 7:15 | 6:18 |
| Feb. 3 | 7:13 | 6:19 |
| Feb. 4 | 7:12 | 6:20 |
| Feb. 5 | 7:11 | 6:22 |
| Feb. 6 | 7:10 | 6:23 |
| Feb. 7 | 7:09 | 6:24 |
| Feb. 8 | 7:08 | 6:26 |
| Feb. 9 | 7:06 | 6:27 |
| Feb. 10 | 7:05 | 6:28 |
| Feb. 11 | 7:04 | 6:30 |
| Feb. 12 | 7:03 | 6:31 |
| Feb. 13 | 7:01 | 6:32 |
| Feb. 14 | 7:00 | 6:33 |
| Feb. 15 | 6:58 | 6:35 |
| Feb. 16 | 6:57 | 6:36 |
| Feb. 17 | 6:56 | 6:37 |
| Feb. 18 | 6:54 | 6:39 |
| Feb. 19 | 6:53 | 6:40 |
| Feb. 20 | 6:51 | 6:41 |
| Feb. 21 | 6:50 | 6:42 |
| Feb. 22 | 6:48 | 6:44 |
| Feb. 23 | 6:47 | 6:45 |
| Feb. 24 | 6:45 | 6:46 |
| Feb. 25 | 6:44 | 6:47 |
| Feb. 26 | 6:42 | 6:49 |
| Feb. 27 | 6:41 | 6:50 |
| Feb. 28 | 6:39 | 6:51 |
What are the hunting and trapping zone boundaries?
Michigan is divided into three hunting and trapping zones: Zone 1, Zone 2 and Zone 3. Zone 1 includes all of the Upper Peninsula. The dividing line between Zone 2 and Zone 3 is from the Lake Michigan shoreline north of Muskegon Lake easterly on Memorial Drive to Ruddiman Drive to Lake Avenue, easterly on Lake Avenue to M-120 in North Muskegon, northeasterly on M-120 to M-20, easterly on M-20 to U.S. 10, easterly on U.S. 10 to Garfield Road in Bay County, northerly on Garfield Road to Pinconning Road, easterly on Pinconning Road to Seven Mile Road, northerly on Seven Mile Road to Lincoln School Road (County Road 25) in Arenac County, northerly on Lincoln School Road to M-61, easterly on M-61 to U.S. 23, easterly on U.S. 23 to the center line of the Au Gres River, southerly along the center line of the Au Gres River to Saginaw Bay, easterly 90 degrees east for 7 miles into Saginaw Bay, then northerly 78 degrees east to the International Boundary.
Isle Royale, part of Keweenaw County (not pictured), is closed to hunting and trapping.
What is the limited firearms deer zone?
Michigan is divided into a northern zone and a southern limited firearms deer zone where only shotguns, certain firearms and certain handguns can be used before and during the firearm deer season (Nov. 15–30). See the Equipment regulations sections for impacts to small game hunting.
What are the limited firearms deer zone boundaries?
The dividing line between the northern zone and the southern limited firearms deer zone is as follows: starting at a point on the Lake Michigan shoreline directly west of M-46, then easterly to M-46, then easterly along M-46 to U.S. 131 at Cedar Springs, southerly on U.S. 131 to M-57, easterly on M-57 to Montcalm Road on the Kent-Montcalm county line, southerly on Montcalm Road and the Kent-Ionia county line to M-44, easterly on M-44 to M-66, northerly on M-66 to M-57, easterly on M-57 to M-52 near Chesaning, northerly on M-52 to M-46, easterly on M-46 to M-47, northerly on M-47 to U.S. 10 west of Bay City, easterly on U.S. 10 to I-75, northerly on I-75 and U.S. 23 to Beaver Road (about 1 mile north of Kawkawlin), easterly to Saginaw Bay, north 50 degrees east to the International Boundary.
What are the safety zones around buildings when hunting with a firearm?
Safety zones are all areas within 150 yards (450 feet) of an occupied building, dwelling, house, residence, cabin or any barn or other building used in a farm operation. No person may hunt or shoot at any wild animal or wild bird with a firearm within a safety zone, without the written permission of the owner or occupant of the property. The safety zone applies to hunting only. It does not apply to indoor or outdoor shooting ranges, target shooting, law enforcement activities or the lawful discharge of firearms for any nonhunting purpose. Special safety zones are established at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. See NPS.gov/SLBE for more information.
Can I hunt on national forest lands?
Yes. Opportunities to hunt on national forest lands may be available for the Hiawatha, Huron-Manistee and Ottawa national forests. All state laws apply to national forest lands. Additional federal regulations also apply. For a complete listing of regulations, see 36 CFR 261 (Code of Federal Regulations) at FS.USDA.gov.
Where can I use a motor vehicle or off-road vehicle on national forest lands?
A motor vehicle use map that shows designated roads and trails open for motorized travel, including off-road vehicles, is available at U.S. Forest Service
offices as well as online at FS.USDA.gov. Both state and federal laws governing ORV use must be followed.
Can I hunt on national wildlife refuges?
National wildlife refuges are closed to hunting unless expressly permitted. All state laws apply to national wildlife refuge lands. Additional federal regulations also apply and can be found in 50 CFR (Code of Federal Regulations) at FWS.gov. Please consult the appropriate national wildlife refuge office for refuge-specific regulations.
Over 4.5 million acres of public lands are managed by the DNR and open to hunting!
Where can I find public hunting lands near me?
You can find places to hunt by visiting Michigan.gov/MiHunt. The interactive DNR map application MI-HUNT can help you plan your hunting and other outdoor recreation adventures. It is your responsibility to be aware of all regulations relevant to your hunting activities and locations. These maps show approximate boundaries of lands open to public hunting.
Where do I find the rules for DNR-managed lands?
You can find the DNR-managed land use rules at Michigan.gov/DNRLaws. Please keep in mind that you cannot:
Can I hunt in state parks and recreation areas?
Yes. Some state parks and recreation areas are open to hunting. State parks are closed to hunting unless opened by law (see Michigan.gov/DNRLaws). State recreation areas are open to hunting unless closed by law. Approximately 92 % of state park and state recreation area lands are open to hunting.
Are there restrictions on hunting in state parks and recreation areas?
Yes. Contact individual parks or recreation areas for current hunting regulations and any restrictions for those areas prior to hunting.
Can I camp at a state park or recreation area while hunting?
Yes. Camping is allowed only on designated campsites. Some state parks and recreation areas have seasonal closures. To make camping reservations, go to MiDNRReservations.com.
Do I need a Recreation Passport to use state parks and recreation areas?
Yes. If you are hunting or camping in state parks or recreation areas, you must have a Recreation Passport. The Recreation Passport gives you access to all 103 state parks and recreation areas as well as all state forest campgrounds and DNR-administered boat launches in Michigan. Camping fees remain in effect. For more information, visit Michigan.gov/RecreationPassport or call 517-284-7275. Michigan residents have the opportunity to buy a Recreation Passport for $14 when renewing their vehicle registration with the Secretary of State. Vehicles registered in other states will require a daily ($11) or annual ($41) fee to enter any state park or DNR-administered boating access site. State forests and state game areas do not require a Recreation Passport.
Are there any local municipalities with hunting or trapping restrictions?
Yes. Some local municipalities may be closed to hunting, trapping or the discharge of firearms. Please contact the local municipality office or local law enforcement agency to find out about restrictions.
Are there townships with hunting restrictions?
Yes. Townships or parts of townships in these counties are closed to hunting or restricted to types of firearms or the discharge of firearms as posted: Alcona, Arenac, Barry, Berrien, Crawford, Eaton, Emmet, Genesee, Iosco, Jackson, Kalamazoo, Livingston, Macomb, Manistee, Oakland, Otsego, Ottawa, Presque Isle, Saginaw, St. Clair, Washtenaw and Wayne. These areas are posted with the restrictions. For descriptions, contact the appropriate township clerk or township police department. Find county-specific rules at Michigan.gov/DNRLaws.
What are Commercial Forest lands?
Commercial Forest lands are privately owned forests enrolled in the Commercial Forest Program. CF landowners are not required to identify the property as CF, and CF land may be fenced and/or gated. The presence of a fence or gate does not prohibit public access to CF lands for fishing or hunting. The landowner may restrict public access during periods of active commercial logging to ensure public safety. Descriptions of land in the CF program and a GIS map are available on the DNR website at Michigan.gov/CommercialForest. CF parcels can also be found using MI-HUNT at Michigan.gov/MiHunt. Contact the DNR Forest Resources Division at 517-284-5900 or visit the Commercial Forest webpage for more information about CF lands.
Can I hunt on Commercial Forest lands?
Yes. Over 2.2 million acres of privately owned forests enrolled in the Commercial Forest program are accessible by foot to the public for fishing, hunting and trapping. To hunt all species, you must possess licenses that are valid for private-land hunting. Use of motorized vehicles for fishing and hunting access is at the landowner’s discretion. Any activities other than the acts of fishing, hunting and trapping require landowner permission. Leaving anything unattended, other than traps, also requires landowner permission. In addition, hunters may not build structures or construct blinds other than with natural materials found on-site. The use of nails, bolts or tree steps is not allowed. The cutting of shooting lanes or destruction of brush, trees or other vegetation is prohibited. Commercial activity on CF lands is not allowed for any purpose other than forestry or oil and gas extraction.
What is the Hunting Access Program?
The Hunting Access Program provides public hunting opportunities on private lands. The DNR leases lands from private landowners to allow public hunting. This program is now one of the oldest dedicated private-lands, public-access programs in the nation. Private landowners determine whether all hunters or youth and apprentice hunters only may hunt on their property. They also determine whether hunters may harvest deer only, turkey only, small game only, sharp-tailed grouse only, all legal species or a combination of any of these options. Property owners specify the maximum number of hunters allowed on the land at any one time. Members of the public can use HAP lands only for hunting purposes; no other activities or recreation are permissible.
How do I hunt on HAP lands?
If you utilize a HAP property, you are a guest of the landowner. Respect for the landowner and landowner’s privacy is vital. You should use the types of registration service provided. Appropriate conduct is expected and helps ensure a good experience for both you and the landowner. All rules and regulations enforced by the DNR apply while hunting on HAP lands. Lands enrolled in HAP are available each day on a first-come, first-served basis. Hunters must register at each property headquarters to hunt for that day’s hunt. To help hunters locate and scout HAP lands, aerial photographs of HAP properties are available at Michigan.gov/MiHunt.
Where can I find more information on HAP?
For more information on HAP, including a current listing of enrolled lands, property details, registration details, rules and enrollment applications, visit Michigan.gov/HAP.
Can I float hunt along waterways?
Hunting and trapping are exclusive rights of landowner(s) bordering the waterway and their invited guests. You must secure permission from the landowner before float hunting along those waterways that are protected by the recreational trespass law. You can float hunt on and along waterways that are surrounded by public lands and open to hunting.
Can I hunt within a road right of way?
You can hunt within a road right of way where the adjoining property is publicly owned. If the adjacent property is privately owned, you must have permission from the landowner.
Can I hunt within a railroad right of way?
Railroad rights of way are private property. Trespassing on railroad property is a misdemeanor. You must have written permission from the railroad company to be exempt from trespass.
Do I need permission to hunt on someone’s private land?
Yes. Trespassing is unlawful and erodes support for recreational hunting. Written or verbal permission is required from the landowner or leaseholder before you hunt on any farmlands, connected woodlots, private land or property that is fenced or enclosed. Hunters are required to produce their hunting licenses to landowners upon request. Unless previously prohibited by the landowner, a person not possessing a firearm may enter on foot upon the property of another person for the sole purpose of retrieving a hunting dog. The person cannot remain on the property beyond the reasonable time necessary to retrieve the dog.
What if the game animal I wounded goes onto private land?
If you wound a game animal and it goes onto private property, you have no legal right to pursue it without permission of the landowner and would be subject to prosecution for trespassing.
Are there any types of equipment I cannot use to hunt small game?
Yes. You cannot use any of the following types of equipment to hunt small game in Michigan:
Do I need to wear hunter orange while small game hunting?
Yes. If you are hunting small game (except crow) from Aug. 15 through April 30, you must wear a cap, hat, vest, jacket or rain gear of hunter orange. The hunter orange garments must be your outermost layer and be visible from all sides. If you are exclusively hunting crow, you are exempt from the hunter orange requirement.
Can I hunt small game from an elevated platform?
Yes. You can hunt small game (except crow and woodcock) from an elevated platform using a bow, crossbow or firearm on public and private lands. A fall arrest system is recommended. Migratory birds, including crow and woodcock, cannot be hunted from an elevated platform.
When can I put an elevated platform up on public lands?
You can place an elevated platform on public lands beginning Sept. 1. You must remove your elevated platform(s) from public lands by March 1.
Can I use an elevated platform on private lands?
Yes. You can use an elevated platform for hunting on private lands with the permission of the landowner. Permanent elevated platforms are not allowed on Commercial Forest lands. The use of tree steps, nails, screws, bolts, etc. is also not allowed on Commercial Forest lands.
What types of ground blinds are legal on public lands?
Type 1 (portable ground blind): This blind must be clearly portable and removed at the end of each day’s hunt (if you wish to leave your blind out overnight, see Type 3 below). Fasteners, if used to attach or anchor the blind, cannot penetrate the cambium of a tree and must be removed daily. No identification is required. These blinds may be used for legal hunting on public land, including all state game areas, state parks and state recreation areas in Zone 3.
Type 2 (dead natural materials ground blind): This blind must be constructed exclusively of dead and natural materials found on the ground in the area of the blind, except that a hunter can add netting, cloth, plastic or other materials for concealment or protection from the weather if these materials are not permanently fastened to the blind and are removed at the end of each day’s hunt. These items can be tied to the blind but cannot be stapled, nailed, glued or fastened in any permanent manner. No identification is required. Fasteners (nails, screws, etc.) cannot be used in construction. These blinds may be used for legal hunting on public land, including all state game areas, state parks and state recreation areas in Zone 3.
Type 3 (constructed ground blind): This includes all other blinds not meeting the requirements of either Type 1 or Type 2, including portable ground blinds, if not removed daily. Identification is required. Fasteners, if used to anchor or attach the blind, cannot penetrate the cambium of a tree and must be removed with the blind. These blinds are not legal on state game areas, state parks and state recreation areas in Zone 3. Note: If a person’s Type 3 ground blind has been permitted to be placed on land administered by a local public agency (city, township, county), the local agency will establish the length of time that a blind may be placed on its property.
Can I use a ground blind on private lands?
Yes. You can use a ground blind for hunting on private lands with the permission of the landowner. Permanent ground blinds are not allowed on Commercial Forest lands.
I am placing an elevated platform or ground blind on public lands. What information must I tag the elevated platform or ground blind with?
In legible English, you must permanently affix your name and address or Michigan driver’s license number or DNR Sportcard number to the elevated platform or Type 3 ground blind if it is placed on public lands.
Can someone else use my elevated platform or ground blind that is on public lands?
Yes. Your name and address or Michigan driver’s license or DNR Sportcard number on an elevated platform or ground blind placed on public lands does not guarantee exclusive use.
What equipment can I use to hunt small game?
You can use a bow, a crossbow, a slingshot or a firearm per regulations explained in this section.
What equipment can a mentor carry in the field when mentoring?
A mentor is limited to two hunting devices (shotgun, rifle, bow or crossbow) in the field while mentoring, and the mentored hunter must always be within arm’s length of the mentor. The mentor will be held responsible for all actions of the mentored hunter while in the field.
What equipment can a mentored hunter use?
Mentored hunters licensed under the Mentored Hunting Program can use a bow, a crossbow or a firearm. Any hunting device possessed by a mentored hunter must be sized appropriately to fit the physical abilities of the mentored hunter.
What equipment can an apprentice youth hunter use?
Apprentice youth hunters can use a bow, a crossbow or a firearm.
Can I use a slingshot to hunt small game?
Yes. You can use a slingshot to hunt small game.
Can I use a pneumatic gun to hunt small game?
Yes. You can use a pneumatic gun to hunt small game if it meets the firearm requirements for the season, species hunted and zone you are hunting in.
Can I use rifles in the limited firearms deer zone to hunt small game?
Yes. You can use a centerfire or rimfire rifle to hunt small game during the open season for the species from Dec. 1 – Nov. 9 in the limited firearms deer zone.
Can I hunt small game during the Nov. 10 – 14 quiet period?
Yes. If you are hunting small game Nov. 10 – 14, you can carry a shotgun with shotshells. You cannot possess buckshot, slugs, ball loads or cut shells during the quiet period.
I am hunting small game. What is the shell capacity for shotguns and centerfire rifles?
You cannot hunt small game with a semi-automatic shotgun or semi-automatic rifle that can hold more than six shells in the barrel and magazine combined, unless it is a .22-caliber or smaller rimfire. All shotguns used for migratory game birds (including woodcock) must be plugged so the total capacity of the shotgun does not exceed three shells.
What are the handgun restrictions I must follow when hunting?
Handguns can be used while hunting during any season in which a firearm is allowed if following the rules listed below. The rules listed below may not apply to those having a concealed pistol license or specifically exempt by law from a CPL and carrying their handgun in accordance with their license or exemption.
I am not a resident of Michigan. What documentation do I need to carry a handgun in Michigan?
You must own and have in your possession either a CPL or a license to purchase, carry or transport issued by your home state to legally carry or transport a handgun in Michigan. For more information about statewide handgun regulations, obtaining a CPL, or concealed weapons and firearm laws, contact your local police department.
How should I transport my bow, crossbow or firearm when afield outside the legal hunting hours?
Firearms must be unloaded in the barrel and all arrows must be in a quiver when you are afield outside the legal hunting hours.
How should I transport my bow, crossbow or firearm while in or on a motor vehicle?
These rules apply whether your vehicle is parked, stopped or moving. At all times when carried in or on a motor vehicle, including snowmobiles:
How should I transport my bow, crossbow or firearm while in or on an off-road vehicle?
These rules apply whether your off-road vehicle is parked, stopped or moving. At all times, when carried in or on an off-road vehicle:
How should I transport my firearm while in or on a boat?
These rules apply when the vessel is under power and until forward motion has ceased. Once the vessel is no longer under power and forward motion has ceased, firearms can be loaded. When carried in or on a motor-propelled boat or sailboat, while the vessel is under power or forward motion is occurring:
Are there additional restrictions for transporting a handgun?
Yes. You can transport your registered handguns while en route to and from your hunting or target-shooting area. However, handguns—including BB guns larger than .177 caliber and all pellet guns—must be unloaded in the barrel and magazines and in a closed case designed for the storage of firearms and cannot be readily accessible to any occupant of the vehicle. These rules do not apply to a pistol carried under authority of a concealed pistol license or properly carried under authority of a specific exception from the requirement of a concealed pistol license.
Can I use an artificial light to locate wild animals?
You cannot use an artificial light (including vehicle headlights) to locate wild animals at any time during November and all other days of the year between 11 p.m. and 6 a.m. You cannot use an artificial light on a highway or in a field, wetland, woodland or forest while having a bow, crossbow, firearm or other device capable of shooting a projectile in your possession. It is a violation of federal law to shine at any time on any national wildlife refuge.
Can I use optics such as scopes or lighted pin sights when hunting?
Yes. You can use a scope with illuminated crosshairs or a lighted pin sight on a bow to hunt game during legal hunting hours.
Are there restrictions on where I can use off-road vehicles or snowmobiles?
Yes. Some roads or areas may be closed to off-road vehicle or snowmobile use. Visit Michigan.gov/DNRLaws or contact the nearest DNR office for closures.
Are there restrictions on when I can use off-road vehicles or snowmobiles?
Yes. You cannot operate an off-road vehicle or a snowmobile between the hours of 7 to 11 a.m. and 2 to 5 p.m. on any area open to public hunting during the Nov. 15–30 firearm deer season. The time restrictions on the use of off-road vehicles and snowmobiles do not apply to the following situations:
Can I hire a hunting guide for small gamehunting?
Yes. You can hire a commercial hunting guide for small game hunting in Michigan. A list of licensed commercial hunting guides is available at Michigan.gov/WildlifePermits.
Can I harvest a squirrel while it is in a nest?
No. You cannot harvest a squirrel in a nest. It is unlawful to disturb a squirrel nest or disturb, harm or molest a squirrel in its nest.
Can I harvest a rabbit while it is in a burrow?
No. You cannot harvest a rabbit in a burrow. It is unlawful to disturb a rabbit burrow or disturb, harm or molest a rabbit in its burrow.
Can I use ferrets, fitchews or weasels to hunt small game?
No. You cannot use ferrets, fitchews or weasels to take game animals, including small game.
Can I set fires to drive out small game?
No. You cannot set fires to drive out game animals, including small game.
Can I hunt from a vehicle?
No. You cannot hunt or pursue small game from a car, snowmobile, aircraft, drone, motorboat, personal watercraft, off-road vehicle or other motorized vehicle, or by a sailboat. Special permits may apply. Visit Michigan.gov/DNRAccessibility for more information for hunters with disabilities.
Can I hunt while under the influence of alcohol or controlled substances?
No. You cannot hunt while under the influence of alcohol or controlled substances.
Can I use falconry to hunt small game?
Yes. If you are a licensed falconer, you can hunt cottontail rabbit, snowshoe hare, squirrel, pheasant, quail, ruffed grouse, sharp-tailed grouse and woodcock with the use of falconry.
When can I use falconry to hunt small game?
Ring-necked pheasants may be taken by falconry in the portions of Zone 1 open to pheasant hunting Oct. 10–31. Ring-necked pheasants may be taken by falconry in the portions of Zone 2 and Zone 3 open to pheasant hunting Oct. 20 – Feb. 28, 2026. The open seasons for hunting cottontail rabbit, snowshoe hare, squirrel, pheasant, quail, ruffed grouse, sharp-tailed grouse and woodcock with the use of falconry are the same dates as the regular seasons in the respective zones for each species (see the Small game hunting season dates section).
What are the daily bag limits and possession limits for falconry?
The daily bag limit is two pheasants of either sex. The possession limit is four pheasants. The daily bag limits and possession limits for cottontail rabbit, snowshoe hare, squirrel, quail, ruffed grouse, sharp-tailed grouse and woodcock taken with the use of falconry are the same bag limits as the regular seasons in the respective zones for each species (see the Bag limits section).
Do I need to wear hunter orange while participating in falconry?
No. If you are engaged in the sport of falconry, you are exempt from the hunter orange requirement.
Can I train my dog on game animals?
Yes. You can train your dog on game animals that can legally be hunted with a dog. For more information, see Chapter VI and XIV of the Wildlife Conservation Order, available at Wildlife Conservation Order.
When can I train my dog?
You can train your dog on legal game animals from July 8 through April 15 of the following year. During the closed season of April 16 – July 7, dog training is only allowed under a special permit issued by the DNR Wildlife Division. For additional information on dog training permits visit Michigan.gov/WildlifePermits.
Where can I train my dog?
You can train your dog statewide in areas open to hunting or on private land. You must have permission from the landowner to train on private lands. Some lands are not open to dog training and are posted that way. The training of hunting dogs is prohibited at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.
How can I prevent the spread of invasive species when training my dog on small game?
Before leaving the training location, remove plant debris, dirt and mud from your dog to protect its health and habitat quality.
Can I hunt small game with a dog?
Yes. You can hunt cottontail rabbit, snowshoe hare, squirrel, pheasant, quail, ruffed grouse, sharp-tailed grouse and woodcock with a dog during their respective open seasons. It is unlawful to hunt with the aid of a dog from April 16 through July 7.
Can I retrieve my hunting dog if it runs on to private property?
Yes. Unless previously prohibited by the landowner, you can enter on foot upon the property of another person for the sole purpose of retrieving a hunting dog. You cannot be in possession of a firearm when retrieving a dog from private property. You should not remain on the property beyond the reasonable time necessary to retrieve the dog.
How can I prevent the spread of invasive species when hunting small game with a dog?
Before leaving the hunting location, remove plant debris, dirt and mud from your dog to protect its health and habitat quality.
I hunt in the Upper Peninsula. Should I be concerned that my hunting dogs might be attacked by wolves?
Yes. Wolves will defend their territories and may attack other wolves, coyotes and domestic dogs that are in their territory. Wolf attacks on domestic dogs are relatively rare. Most wolf-dog conflicts occur where dogs are trained or used for bear hunting. These dogs are more at risk because they: traverse large areas, which increases their chances of encountering wolves; may be released at bear bait sites that also may be used by wolves; bark while tracking, which may be viewed as a territorial challenge by wolves; and are some distance from hunters and therefore not protected by the presence of humans.
How can I avoid potential problems with wolves and my dogs?
To minimize the conflict between wolves and dogs, it is best to avoid areas of recent wolf activity. Wolves will concentrate much of their activity around the den and rendezvous sites. Rendezvous sites, where pups are raised, usually include forest openings or edge areas and often are near water. These sites may vary from year to year and can change throughout the summer. They can be identified by a concentration of wolf tracks, droppings and matted vegetation. It is best to do some scouting and look for wolf sign before releasing dogs. Be especially vigilant when starting dogs from a bear bait site and make sure wolves have not been using the bait. If wolf sign, particularly the sign of wolf pups, is evident, move to another area before releasing dogs. Become familiar with coyote and dog tracks so they can be correctly distinguished from wolf tracks. Consider adding bells or beepers to dog collars, which may reduce wolf attacks.
What should I do if I suspect my dog has had a conflict with a wolf?
Report all suspected wolf-dog conflicts to the DNR immediately to allow a timely investigation. To report a dog depredation, call the Report All Poaching hotline at 800-292-7800. Your reports help other hunters by allowing the DNR to provide updated dog depredation locations. At this time, the use of lethal control of wolves in the act of depredation is not authorized. Because the federal status of wolves has changed, and may continue to change, please contact a DNR office to ask about current rules regarding lethal take of wolves if in the act of killing or wounding a dog.
Where can I find more information on hunting dog conflicts with wolves?
For more information, including locations where hunting dog conflicts with wolves have occurred, visit Michigan.gov/Wolves or contact the DNR Marquette Customer Service Center at 906-228-6561.
What if I see sick-looking wildlife while scouting or hunting?
The DNR encourages you to report any sightings of sick or dead wildlife at Michigan.gov/EyesInTheField. You should provide information about the location, number and condition of the animals you observed. Contact the DNR Wildlife Health Section at 517-336-5030 if you have any questions.
What is avian influenza?
Avian influenza, or “bird flu,” is caused by viruses that infect both wild and domestic birds and mammals. These viruses impact poultry and wild birds in different ways. In poultry, avian influenza is typically extremely contagious resulting in high death loss and associated economic losses to poultry producers. Wild birds can carry the viruses but don’t always get sick or die. Visit Michigan.gov/WildlifeDisease for more information.
Is my hunting dog at risk?
The risk of hunting dogs acquiring bird flu is likely low since they are not consuming the bird, but exposure to the virus may occur when mouthing or biting the bird. If you want to share game meat with your dog, thoroughly cook it first.
What is rabbit hemorrhagic disease virus 2?
Rabbit hemorrhagic disease virus 2 is a highly contagious and fatal calicivirus that affects lagomorphs (domestic and wild rabbits, hares and pikas). In Michigan, the species that could be affected are cottontail rabbits and snowshoe hares. The virus attacks the internal organs and causes hemorrhaging, leading the affected animal to bleed out. Sudden death in otherwise healthy rabbit populations is usually observed, along with blood around the mouth and nostrils of dead specimens. If a wild rabbit or hare is found dead with blood around its nose and mouth, and there is no obvious cause of death, it should be collected and submitted to the DNR Wildlife Health Section for testing. Contact the DNR Wildlife Health Section at 517-336-5030 if you have any questions. For a map of RHDV2-positive states, visit https://www.aphis.usda.gov/livestock-poultry-disease/rabbit-hemorrhagic-disease-map.
What is West Nile virus?
West Nile virus is a mosquito-borne virus that can cause inflammation of the brain and/or inflammation of the lining of the brain and spinal cord. WNV primarily infects and multiplies in birds, which serve as reservoirs for the virus. Corvids (crows, blue jays and ravens) are the most susceptible to the disease. The virus is spread between birds mostly through the bite of an infected mosquito. When the level of virus transmission among birds and mosquitoes becomes high, horses and humans can be incidentally infected. In Michigan, 65 bird species and six mammal species have been detected positive. Grouse infected with WNV generally display neurologically abnormal behavior such as erratic flying. Hunters may observe this behavior or find that a bird that they have harvested is in poor physical condition. Birds may also be found dead for no apparent reason. The entire carcass should be collected and submitted for examination. Contact the DNR Wildlife Health Section at 517-336-5030 if you have any questions.
What if I see an invasive species while scouting or hunting?
The DNR encourages you to learn how to identify and report invasive species at MISIN.MSU.edu. For more information on invasive species management or your local cooperative invasive species management area, visit Michigan.gov/Invasives.
How can I help stop the spread of invasive species?
Prevention is the best way to manage invasive species! Practice PlayCleanGo by checking yourself and your gear. Arrive clean and remove any plant debris, dirt and mud before leaving your hunting location.
Can I harvest Russian boar?
Yes. Russian boar can be hunted and trapped, year-round, statewide with a valid base license. Russian boar can be taken on public land by anyone possessing a valid hunting license or a concealed pistol license, or on private land with the landowner’s permission. You are encouraged to report all Russian boar seen or taken at Michigan.gov/FeralSwine or by calling 517-336-1928.
Can I possess invasive plants in Michigan?
No. You cannot move or possess invasive plants. For a complete list of prohibited and restricted species, visit Michigan.gov/Invasives.
Can I use a drone to recover game animals?
No. The use of drones to pursue wildlife in any manner, either during legal hunting hours or after, is illegal. You cannot take game or fish using an unmanned vehicle or unmanned device that uses aerodynamic forces to achieve flight or using an unmanned vehicle or unmanned device that operates on the surface of water or underwater. Attempting to locate and/or recover game, either dead or wounded, is an act which falls within the definition of “take.”
What are the rules for transporting game?
You can transport your own and another person’s lawfully taken game. You cannot destroy the identity or evidence of the sex of any small game animal. If you are transporting migratory birds (including woodcock), one fully feathered wing must be left on the bird. If transporting another person’s migratory birds, they must be tagged with the person’s name, signature and home address, and the number of birds by species, dates of kill and hunting license number.
I harvested a migratory bird with a band. Should I report it?
Yes. You can promote sound wildlife management by promptly reporting all banded birds harvested, including date and location taken. This information is used to determine annual survival, migration routes and contribution to the state harvest from different breeding grounds. To report bands, go online to ReportBand.gov. Please note that even if the band you recover is inscribed with a 1-800 telephone number, you can only report it at ReportBand.gov.
Should I be concerned about dioxin?
Health assessors from the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services and Michigan DNR determined that samples of wild game taken from the floodplains of the Tittabawassee River and Saginaw River downstream of Midland contained high levels of dioxin and dioxin-like compounds. Wild game tested included deer, turkeys, cottontail rabbits, squirrels, wood ducks and Canada geese. As a result, the MDHHS advises that hunters and their families follow these recommendations related to small game:
For additional information regarding dioxin, dioxin-like compounds and wild game advisories for the Tittabawassee River and Saginaw River floodplains, including a map of the area covered by these advisories, go to the MDHHS website at Michigan.gov/Dioxin.
Should I be concerned about lead in wild game meat?
Ammunition used to shoot wildlife, including traditional lead birdshot or rounds containing lead bullets, may fragment, leaving particles remaining in game meat, even after processing. Some of these lead particles may be too small to be seen or felt when processing game. Being exposed to any lead can be a serious issue for developing bodies and nervous systems, so those most at risk of health effects from eating wild game meat that contains lead are young children and women who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.
How should I handle and process game meat?
Keep yourself and others healthy by taking care of your harvested meat. The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services recommends proper food safety practices when handling game meat, as well as any other meat or poultry.
Can I buy or sell game animals?
You cannot buy or sell game animals, dead or alive, except as provided by Wildlife Conservation Order 4.3, available at Michigan.gov/DNRLaws.
Can I possess a live wild animal?
No. It is unlawful to possess live game or protected animals taken from the wild except under a permit issued by the DNR. Visit Michigan.gov/WildlifePermits for more information.
What is the Interstate Wildlife Violator Compact?
Michigan is a member of the Interstate Wildlife Violator Compact, an agreement where participating states share information about fish and game violators and honor each other’s decision to deny licenses and permits. If your hunting, fishing or trapping license is revoked in Michigan, you may lose your privileges in the other 45 participating states as well. And, if your license is revoked in any of those states, it also may be revoked in Michigan.
How do I report suspected poaching?
If you witness a natural resource violation or have information on the illegal killing of game animals in Michigan, report it immediately. You can do this by texting or calling 800-292-7800. Phone lines are open 24/7. You may remain anonymous.
Accompany — to go along with another individual under circumstances that allow one to come to the immediate aid of the other individual while staying within a distance from the other individual that permits uninterrupted, unaided visual and auditory communication.
Apprentice hunter — a person 10 years old or older without a hunter education certificate who is licensed under the apprentice program.
Bag limit — the number of animals that may be taken and possessed as determined by the DNR.
Blind individual — an individual who has a visual acuity of 20/200 or less in the better eye with correction or has a limitation of his or her field of vision such that the widest diameter of the visual field subtends an angular distance not greater than 20 degrees, as determined by the Commission for the Blind.
Bow — a device for propelling an arrow from a string drawn, held and released by hand if the force used to hold the string in the drawn position is provided by the archer’s muscles.
Buy/sell — an exchange or attempt or offer to exchange for money, barter or anything of value.
Chase — to follow animals with dogs or other wild or domestic animals trained for that purpose.
Crossbow — a weapon consisting of a bow, with a draw weight of 100 pounds or more, mounted transversely on a stock or frame and designed to fire an arrow, bolt or quarrel by the release of a bow string controlled by a mechanical or electric trigger with a working safety.
Daily bag limit — the maximum number of game birds or animals of a single species or combination of species permitted to be taken by one person in any one day during the open season.
Deaf individual — an individual who is not able to process information aurally, with or without amplification, and whose primary means of communication is visual or by receiving spoken language through other sensory input, including, but not limited to, lipreading, sign language, finger spelling or reading.
Developmental disability — a severe, chronic condition as defined in section 100a of the mental health code, 1974 PA 258, MCL 330.1100a.
Elevated platform — any horizontal surface, constructed or manufactured by a person, that increases the field of vision of a person using it beyond the field of vision that normally would be attained by that person standing on the ground. Elevated platforms include scaffolds, raised platforms, ladders, steps and any other device that is used to assist in climbing a tree.
Firearm — any weapon that will, is designed to or may readily be converted to expel a projectile by action of an explosive.
Game animal — any species of wildlife designated by the Legislature or the Natural Resources Commission as game under Section 40110 of the Michigan Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act and any of the following animals: badger, bear, beaver, bobcat, brant, coot, coyote, crow, deer, duck, elk, fisher, Florida gallinule, fox, goose, hare, Hungarian partridge, marten, mink, muskrat, opossum, otter, pheasant, quail, rabbit, raccoon, ruffed grouse, sharptailed grouse, skunk, snipe, sora rail, squirrel, Virginia rail, weasel, wild turkey, woodchuck and woodcock.
Ground blind — a structure, enclosure or any material, natural or manufactured, placed on the ground to assist in concealing or disguising a person for the purpose of harvesting an animal.
Hunt or hunting — to pursue, capture, shoot, kill, chase, follow, harass, harm, rob or trap a wild animal, or to attempt to engage in such an activity.
Hunter education/safety — a certification course used to train hunters on understanding wildlife management, wildlife identification, ethics, laws and regulations, and firearms safety and handling.
Hunter orange — the highly visible color commonly referred to as hunter orange that includes blaze orange, flame orange and fluorescent blaze orange.
Identification — a driver license issued by Michigan, another state or a Canadian province as accepted by the DNR, a state of Michigan identification card issued by the Secretary of State or a Sportcard issued by the DNR.
License — a document or a tag, stamp, plastic card or other device that may include a stamp or a tag that authorizes the licensee to hunt, fish, trap or possess wild animals or aquatic species and other identification required by the DNR.
Mentor — a person at least 21 years old who has a valid license to hunt and previous hunting experience and is participating in the Mentored Hunting Program.
Migratory bird — any bird listed in the Code of Federal Regulations under Title 50 Part 10.13.
Nonresident — a person who is not a resident of Michigan.
Pneumatic gun — any implement, designed as a gun, that will expel a BB or pellet by spring, gas or air.
Poaching — the illegal shooting, trapping or taking of game, fish or other natural resources from private or public property.
Possession limit — the maximum number of game birds or animals of a single species or combination of species permitted to be possessed by any one person when lawfully taken in Michigan.
Protected wildlife — bear cubs, bear sows accompanied by cubs, cougars, eagles, flying squirrels, hawks, lynx, moose, nongame birds (except starlings, house sparrows and feral pigeons), owls, spruce grouse and wolverines. Protected wildlife cannot be taken at any time.
Residence — a permanent building serving as a temporary or permanent home. Residence may include a cottage, cabin or mobile home, but does not include a structure designed primarily for taking game, a tree blind, a tent, a recreational or other vehicle, or a camper.
Resident — a person who resides in a settled or permanent home or domicile within the boundaries of this state with the intention of remaining in this state; a student who is enrolled in a full-time course at a college or university within this state and who resides in the state during the school year; a person regularly enlisted or commissioned as an officer in the armed forces of the United States and officially stationed in this state; or a person regularly enlisted or commissioned as an officer in the armed forces of the United States who, at the time of enlistment, was a resident of this state and has maintained his or her residence in this state for purposes of obtaining a driver license or voter registration, or both.
Safety zone — all areas within 150 yards (450 feet) of an occupied building, dwelling, house, residence, cabin or any barn or other building used in a farm operation.
Season dates — the legal dates that may be hunted or trapped.
Shotgun — a firearm designed to be fired from the shoulder that uses the energy of the explosive in a fixed shotgun shell to fire through a smooth bore either a number of ball shot or a single projectile for each single function of the trigger.
Take — to hunt with any weapon, dog, raptor or other wild or domestic animal trained for that purpose; kill; chase; follow; harass; harm; pursue; shoot; rob; trap; capture or collect animals, or to attempt to engage in such an activity.
Transport — to carry or ship animals within this state or to points outside this state.
Uncocked bow — a bow that is not in the drawn position.
Uncocked crossbow — a crossbow that is not in the cocked position.
Unloaded bow — a bow that does not have an arrow nocked.
Unloaded crossbow — a crossbow that does not have a bolt in the flight groove.
Unloaded firearm — a firearm that does not have ammunition in the barrel, chamber, cylinder, clip or magazine when the barrel, chamber, cylinder, clip or magazine is part of or attached to the firearm. Muzzleloading firearms are considered unloaded when the cap is removed or priming powder is removed from the pan, or when the battery is removed on electronic systems. The ball and powder can remain in the barrel.
Wild animal — a mammal, bird, fish, reptile, amphibian or crustacean of a wild nature indigenous to this state or introduced to this state by the DNR or a species determined by the DNR to be of public benefit.
