When does rifle season end in Michigan?
As an enthusiastic hunter, you’re surely eager to know when you can bag your trophy elk, deer, or any other game species in the Great Lakes State. For Michigan, the rifle season closure dates vary depending on the species and the zone or region you’re hunting. In this article, we’ll provide you with a concise guide on when rifle seasons end in Michigan for all species and zones.
Contents
- 1 General Overview
- 2 Late Season Antlered Deer
- 3 Deer Firearms Regulation Zone (DFR) Seasons
- 4 Antlered Elk Hunting**The last day of **antlered elk hunting** will typically be **November 22nd** or when the quota is met by the Michigan DNR and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (when applicable). Late Season Turkey
General Overview
In Michigan, the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) regulates hunting seasons to conserve wildlife populations and ensure sustainable game management. The DNR sets specific dates for antlerless deer hunting permits, muzzleloader, rifle, and other seasons throughout the year. Here, we’ll focus on rifle season end dates for all species (deer, elk, bears, and turkeys). Keep in mind that specific license requirements, bag limits, and any restrictions might be in place, so review the DNR website for essential information.
Late Season Antlered Deer
For the Late Archery Season, rifle hunter permits are issued, specifically for antlered deer in the south and west zones. You can check the dates through the Michigan DNR site, as they might vary annually.
Dates for the Late Archery Season:
| Zone/Region | Dates |
|---|---|
| South Zone | Second Saturday in January to end of January |
| West Zone | Third Saturday in January to end of January |
Note that the Late Archery Season is subject to change due to weather conditions or wildlife needs. Monitor the official DNR website for real-time updates.
Deer Firearms Regulation Zone (DFR) Seasons
The DFR Zones define specific areas where firearms antlerless deer hunting (FADH) permits are permitted. Here are the end dates for antlerless deer harvest in each zone, respectively:
| DFR Zone | End Date of Antlerless Deer Harvest* |
|---|---|
| DFR West | January 18th |
| DFR East | February 8th |
*The antlerless deer harvest permits can no longer be used after their respective end dates.
For antlered deer, rifle hunting in firearms seasons typically concludes by February 1st or in late January for some seasons. It’s essential to review the specific hunting guides and permits for each type of hunt, as hunting dates can change yearly, and there may be adjustments based on wildlife management regulations.
Antlered Elk Hunting**The last day of **antlered elk hunting** will typically be **November 22nd** or when the quota is met by the Michigan DNR and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (when applicable).
Late Season Turkey
The last chance to harvest a **male turkey** during the combined season (fall turkey muzzleloader and fall turkey Archery) is **early December**, with exact end dates varying annually.
As you can see, timing is crucial for hunters as rifle seasons have different expiration dates depending on species (deer, elk, etc.) and regions within the state. Be sure to **double-check dates from the Michigan DNR webpage** before heading out as these might be subject to change. Stay safe out there, and may luck be on your side (and on your gun!
**Remember: Always**
* Follow DNR Regulations
* Obtain the Proper Licenses and Permits
* Check Local Landowner Restrictions
* Prey on your targets Humanely
* Be responsible and respect wildlife habitats, fellow hunters, and humans
Enhance Your Knowledge with Curated Videos on Guns and Accessories
The last day of **antlered elk hunting** will typically be **November 22nd** or when the quota is met by the Michigan DNR and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (when applicable).
Late Season Turkey
The last chance to harvest a **male turkey** during the combined season (fall turkey muzzleloader and fall turkey Archery) is **early December**, with exact end dates varying annually.
As you can see, timing is crucial for hunters as rifle seasons have different expiration dates depending on species (deer, elk, etc.) and regions within the state. Be sure to **double-check dates from the Michigan DNR webpage** before heading out as these might be subject to change. Stay safe out there, and may luck be on your side (and on your gun!
**Remember: Always**
* Follow DNR Regulations
* Obtain the Proper Licenses and Permits
* Check Local Landowner Restrictions
* Prey on your targets Humanely
* Be responsible and respect wildlife habitats, fellow hunters, and humans
