Michigan Extends Deer Season, Updates Rules to Boost Participation By: Larry Z

With Michigan’s firearm deer season opener just around the corner on November 15, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has introduced new rules to increase hunter participation.

Starting January 2 and running through January 12, hunters will have an extended firearm season for antlerless deer, providing a fresh opportunity into the new year, reports 13 On Your Side.

Additionally, this year’s late firearm season, beginning December 16, is now open to public land, expanding access beyond private property.

This change comes in response to a steady decline in Michigan hunters over the last 20 years, with numbers dropping by around 200,000.

The decline has led to a rise in deer populations, impacting forest ecosystems, crops, and spreading diseases among deer.

Hunters in Zone 2, which extends from NGO County to the Mackinac Bridge, can now also use regular firearms during muzzleloader season from December 6 to December 15.

As a reminder, all hunters must report any deer harvested to the DNR within 72 hours.

These updates reflect the DNR’s commitment to sustainable deer management, creating more hunting options while promoting a balanced ecosystem across Michigan.

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