REGION – Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or new to the sport, you can enjoy Michigan’s abundant small game hunting opportunities this fall – all you need is a base license.
Several seasons start in September, and it’s the perfect time to spend some time outdoors searching for small game – and maybe scout a spot for deer hunting later this fall. Fox and gray squirrel, rabbit, hare, ruffed grouse and woodcock hunting all open Thursday, Sept. 15.
If you’re targeting woodcock, you’ll need a free woodcock stamp – which includes your Harvest Information Program registration – in addition to your small game license.
Not sure where to go? Michigan’s grouse enhanced management sites are great for grouse and other small game hunting. Learn about these premier bird hunting locations at Michigan.gov/GEMS. For more places to hunt, check out Michigan.gov/MIHunt. Mi-HUNT is an interactive map that shows lands open to public hunting throughout the state, as well as cover types, nearby recreation amenities and other features.
Fall turkey hunting also starts Sept. 15, and even if you didn’t enter the drawing for a limited-quota license, you still could snag a turkey tag. Leftover fall turkey licenses will be sold until quotas are met, and hunters may purchase up to one license a day. Hunters may harvest one turkey per license. Check leftover turkey license availability and find additional fall turkey hunting information at Michigan.gov/Turkey.
More information on small game hunting opportunities in Michigan can be found at Michigan.gov/SmallGame. Check the 2022 Hunting Digest, available at Michigan.gov/DNRDigests, for season dates, bag limits and other regulations.
Still need to get your 2022 base license? Buy online at Michigan.gov/DNRLicenses, through the new Michigan DNR Hunt Fish app or anywhere DNR licenses are sold.
Questions? Contact the DNR Wildlife Division at 517-284-9453.
