Michigan Hunting Seasons, 2023-2024

Bag game large and small during Michigan’s hunting seasons. From elk and deer to bear, turkey and wolf, hunters will find variety while hunting in the state.

Michigan offers hunters access to both public and private lands. The Hunting Access Program (HAP) and Hunters Helping Landowners Program turn privately owned properties into easily accessible and legally hunt-able regions. Additionally, the Department of Natural Resources provides Mi-HUNT, a mapping tool for hunters to find public hunting areas statewide.

Hunting licenses are available for resident and nonresidents. Licenses can be purchased from a license agent or through the natural resources website.

Michigan Deer Seasons

Early Antlerless, FirearmsSept. 16-17
Liberty HuntSept. 9-10
Independence HuntOct. 19-22
ArcheryOct. 1-Nov. 14
Dec. 1-Jan. 1
Regular FirearmNov. 15-30
MuzzleloaderDec. 1-10
Late Antlerless, FirearmsDec. 11-Jan. 1

Michigan Elk Seasons

General SeasonAug. 29-Dec. 17**

*Elk hunting is restricted by a lottery permit system. Selected hunters are randomly assigned to specific hunting areas and hunt time period, ranging from August through December.

Michigan Wild Turkey Seasons

Fall General SeasonSept. 15-Nov. 14
Spring General SeasonTBD

Michigan Small Game Seasons

Cottontail RabbitSept. 15-March 31
Snowshoe HareSept. 15-March 31
Pheasant (Male only)Oct. 10-Jan. 1**
GrouseRuffed: Sept. 15-Nov. 14 and Dec. 1-Jan. 1
Sharp-tailed: Oct. 10-31
Squirrel (Fox and Gray)Sept. 15-March 31
Opossum, Porcupine, Weasel, Red Squirrel, Skunk, Ground Squirrel, Woodchuck, Feral Swine, Feral Pigeons, Starling, House SparrowsOpen Season

**Season dates vary by zone

Bag limits, special seasons and hunting regulations for Michigan hunting seasons do vary based on animal and seasons. For more information on obtaining licenses, permits and regulations, visit the Michigan Department of Natural Resources website.