Complete Guide to Michigan Deer Season: Dates, Tips and Rules

Michigan deer season is one of the most anticipated events of the year. The season is full of excitement for the families, youngsters, and hunters, especially. The hunters used to spend millions for this season to buy licenses, equipment, and other gear.

The season usually starts from September and lasts till January. If you are also waiting for the season to start, you must know the doable things to ensure a hassle-free experience. Let’s dive into the necessary information and get prepared for the upcoming event.

When Does Deer Season Start In Michigan?

Initially, the deer season starts in July, when they begin accepting permit applications. DNR will start issuing the licenses and drawing results on September 2.

Liberty (Youth) Hunt

Officially, the season starts on September 13 and ends on September 14. In this season, only qualified youth and disabled hunters are allowed with a valid license. Moreover, baiting is also restricted in the season, and hunters can shoot only one antlered deer, while they can take down as many antlerless deer as they can, but with a kill tag.

Early Antlerless Firearm

After a few days of 1st season, the Early Antlerless firearm season starts, which is held from 20-21 September. The season is open for public and private lands. The Lower Peninsula is allotted to the hunters, excluding 173, 245, 115, and 145 DMUs.

Independence Hunt

The independence hunt season runs from October 16 to October 19, during which youth and disabled hunters are also allowed. The hunters can go state-wide, but within some limits for public and private lands. They must ensure they have a valid permit for public land.

Archery Season

The Archery season starts from October 1 and runs through November 14. It will then resume on December 1, 2025, and end on January 1, 2026. In this season, the hunters use a crossbow to hit the deer. In some counties with metros such as Oakland, Huron, and St Clair, the archery season is extended till January 31, 2026.

Regular Firearm Season

The regular firearm season will then take over from** November 15 and stay till November 30**. You need to be careful while using weaponry. Your weapon must be legal, and you must ensure that you do not hunt in restricted areas. Once you get caught engaging in such activity, they will charge you at least a $1000 fine.

Muzzleloader Season

The most-awaited Muzzleloader season will start from December 5 through December 14. In some spots, hunters are allowed to use any legal weapon for hunting. In this season, you are restricted to using specific bows, crossbows, and other firearms.

Late Antlerless Firearm Season

The late antlerless firearm season will start from December 15, 2025, and follow till January 1, 2026. In this season, the hunters are restricted to only the Lower Peninsula, with some of DMU’s also excluded. At last, the late Antlerless Firearm season is extended till January 11, but remains restricted to some units. It is recommended to always stay in the unit that is tagged to you and take the maximum advantage of the season.

Source: Michigan DNR

License Of Michigan Deer Season

Hunting deer in Michigan is illegal without a license, so make sure you are a licensed hunter. Hunting without a valid license could result in heavy fines and even jail time.

Source: Michigan DNR License

Hunting Zones In Michigan Deer Season

Michigan is divided into specific zones for hunting in deer season. The zones are named as A, B, C, and D. They each have a different time zone, and also the hunting hours are adjusted one hour before sunrise and one hour after sunset to attain the maximum daylight.

Zone A has the same time as Michigan, while Zone B has an additional 6 minutes. Similarly, Zone C and Zone D have 12 and 18 minutes of difference, respectively.

Zone A

• Presque Isle
• Alpena
• Alcona
• Arenac
• Oakland

Zone B

• Chippewa
• Emmet
• Oscoda
• Osceola
• Jackson

Zone C

• Marquette
• Alger
• Delta
• Dickinson
• Menominee
• Schoolcraft

Zone D

• Houghton
• Iron
• Baraga
• Keweenaw
• Ontonagon
• Gogebic

Tips Of Deer Hunting In Michigan

• Stay informed about the necessary permits and licenses. Visit the DNR's official website to stay informed about seasons and the specific weapons to use.

• It is mandatory to scout the area before the season. For efficient scouting, you can install Reolink Go Ranger PT. It offers 4K 8MP UHD footage, making it easier for you to track the deer with a crystal clear view. With 360 ° support, you can capture the entire area. It auto-detects the animal and has a no-glow night vision to monitor them without creating any disturbance.

• Before the season, keep an eye on different areas in the county where deer are active.
• You should practice aiming before the season to get the perfect shot.
• It is recommended to use advanced and legal weapons. Also, carry safety gear for efficient hunting.
• You must remain scentless and hunt according to the weather.

FAQs

1. When does deer season end in Michigan?

The Late Antlerless Firearm season is the last event that ends on January 11, 2026. This season is designated for the lower peninsula counties.

2. Can you hunt deer on your own property without a license in Michigan?

No, it is not permitted to hunt deer without a license in Michigan. A valid license is required for residents and non-residents to hunt legally.

3. What are the new regulations for deer hunting in Michigan?

Some key news includes the expansion of the late Antlerless firearm season to more counties. Moreover, the hunters would be permitted to use other legal weapons, but only in zones 2 and 3.

4. Can you shoot deer on your own property out of season?

No, it is strictly prohibited to shoot the deer out of season. You must ensure you have a valid license and check the seasons or tags regularly. Any mistake would lead to severe fines and may result in prison.

Conclusion

Michigan deer season is more than just hunting for the people. It is the season for which people wait and gain a lot of experience after going through. However, it is a responsibility to maintain a positive hunting environment, and you should be properly licensed to enjoy legal hunting. An ethical and safe hunt will promote a positive side and allow future hunters to carry the legacy.