URGENT UPDATE: Michigan’s firearm deer season is set to open on November 15, 2024, marking the first time in 11 years that the opener falls on a Saturday. This pivotal change could significantly impact hunting outcomes across the state, as hunters gear up for a season that runs through November 30.
The Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) reports that hunters have already harvested 91,822 deer this year during various early seasons, indicating strong participation ahead of the main event. The last Saturday opener in 2014 saw a 15% drop in deer harvest compared to the previous year, but the DNR remains optimistic about this season’s potential.
Why This Matters NOW: The success of this hunting season is crucial for both wildlife management and local economies. With three full weekends available, there’s a chance for a higher harvest than last year’s total of nearly 180,000 deer during the regular firearm season alone, which accounted for about half of the total deer harvested across all seasons.
As hunters prepare, they must be aware of local regulations. The legal shooting time begins at 6:53 a.m. in the eastern zone on opening day, with times shifting as daylight changes. Hunters are prohibited from shooting after 5:40 p.m. on the first day, with this cutoff moving earlier each day.
Safety remains a priority, with specific regulations in place regarding hunting near occupied buildings. Hunters must stay at least 150 yards away from any residence or occupied structure unless they have written permission from the property owner.
Increased Participation: A record 532,926 individuals hunted deer in Michigan in 2024, a 1% increase from the previous year, highlighting the ongoing popularity of the sport. However, concerns about deer populations persist, especially in areas affected by severe weather conditions last winter, including the Upper Peninsula, where snowfall exceeded 200 inches.
Hunters are also urged to be vigilant regarding public safety. The Michigan State Police (MSP) reported 619 active missing persons cases, asking hunters to report any unusual findings while out in the field. “Your observations can greatly assist ongoing search efforts,” MSP stated.
As for regulations, baiting deer is banned across the entire Lower Peninsula, with limited exceptions for hunters with disabilities. Those interested in hunting should review the 2025 Deer Hunting Regulations Summary, available on the Michigan DNR Hunt Fish app.
While the DNR is optimistic about deer numbers this season, they advise hunters to be cautious of diseases such as epizootic hemorrhagic disease (EHD) and chronic wasting disease (CWD), which have been reported in several counties. Testing for these diseases is available for free in designated areas.
This season promises to be significant for Michigan’s hunters, with the unique Saturday opener and heightened participation. As the clock ticks down to November 15, anticipation builds for what could be a groundbreaking deer hunting season.
For more information on hunting licenses and regulations, visit Michigan.gov/MiHunt and stay updated with the latest from the DNR.
