Self-Guided White-Tailed Deer Hunt

Big Game

Michigan’s big game species include White-tailed deer, Black bear, and Elk. All hunters must purchase an annual Base License which allows them to hunt small game and to purchase additional hunting licenses.

Deer licenses in Michigan are sold over the counter – hunters can purchase a single deer license or a combo that lincludes tags for two deer. Antlerless deer licenses are also available, but may be limited in numbers for special management units and obtained via a lottery.

Bear hunting in Michigan is conducted by lottery. Hunters (residents and non-residents) must apply for a bear license during the application period and, if successful, the hunter can then purchase a bear license for the designated bear management unit/season. Bear licenses are limited, and Michigan gives preference points for unsuccessful applicants to improve future odds.

Elk hunting in Michigan is extremely limited and available to residents only by a strict lottery.

Small Game

Michigan’s base license covers hunting of rabbits, hares, squirrels, upland birds, and other small game. In addition, all hunters pursuing migratory game birds (woodcock, doves, waterfowl, etc.) must obtain a free Harvest Information Program (HIP) endorsement by getting a HIP stamp.

Waterfowl hunters need a Federal Duck Stamp and also a Michigan Waterfowl License.

Hunters targeting Sharp-tailed grouse must get a stamp, and those hunting Pheasants on public land in the lower peninsula must purchase a Pheasant license.

Michigan’s Wild turkey hunts are managed separately. Spring Turkey licenses are limited by unit and time period – hunters must apply in a lottery for most spring Turkey units, except for one of the late season hunts which is available over-the-counter statewide. The application period is typically in January with results available in early March. Fall Turkey hunting is even more limited to certain areas and dates, licenses are also issued through a lottery. One Turkey license per hunter is available yearly.

Documents Needed

• Base License
• Deer or Deer Combo, Bear, Elk or Turkey License - as per the targeted species
• Michigan Waterfowl Hunting License and Federal Duck Stamp for waterfowl hunters
• HIP Certification for hunters of migratory birds
• Hunter education certificate

Minimum Hunter Age

Michigan does not specify a minimum age to hunt. Hunters under 10 years old may hunt under the Mentored Youth Hunting program, youth hunters 10 years and older can take a hunter education course and obtain their own licenses. All hunters under 17 must be accompanied by an adult while hunting until they have completed hunter education. Michigan also manages the Apprentice Hunting program for novice hunters.

Links to More Information

• michigan.gov - Michigan Department of Natural Resources