Michigan 2025–2026 Deer Hunting Season: Dates, New Rules & What Hunters Need to Know
Michigan’s 2025–2026 deer hunting season brings several important updates from the Department of Natural Resources (DNR). Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or planning your first outing, staying up to date on the rules and dates is crucial.
Key Changes to Be Aware Of
1. Antlerless Harvest Restrictions (Upper Peninsula)
Antlerless harvests are restricted during Early and Late Archery seasons in the Upper Peninsula due to updated antler point restrictions.
2. Extended Late Antlerless Firearm Season (Lower Peninsula)
Hunters in select Lower Peninsula counties get extra days, with an extended late firearm season from January 2–11, 2026. This applies to both public and private land.
3. Muzzleloader Firearm Flexibility
Hunters in Deer Management Units (DMUs) 2 and 3 may now use any firearm legal for those zones during the muzzleloader season, from December 5–14, 2025.
4. Mandatory Harvest Reporting
All hunters must report their harvest within 72 hours. The DNR provides phone support at 517‑284‑9453 for those who need assistance.
2025–2026 Deer Hunting Season Dates (by Category)
- Liberty Hunt (Youth/Disability): September 13–14, 2025
- Early Antlerless Firearm: September 20–21, 2025 (Lower Peninsula only)
- Independence Hunt (Disability): October 16–19, 2025
- Archery Season (Statewide): October 1–November 14, 2025
- Late Archery Season (Statewide): December 1, 2025–January 1, 2026
- Extended January Archery (Select Counties): January 2–31, 2026
(Huron, Kent, Lapeer, Macomb, Oakland, Sanilac, St. Clair (excluding DMU 174), Tuscola, Washtenaw, Wayne) - Regular Firearm Season: November 15–30, 2025
- Muzzleloader Season: December 5–14, 2025
- Late Antlerless Firearm: December 15, 2025–January 1, 2026 (Lower Peninsula only)
- Extended Late Antlerless Firearm: January 2–11, 2026 (select Lower Peninsula counties)
Note: Changes to antlerless harvest during the early and late archery seasons in the Upper Peninsula have been implemented.
Regulation Changes & Legislative Proposals
Approved by NRC:
- The restricted kill tag on combo deer licenses now requires a four-point minimum on one side in certain counties.
- During the Liberty Hunt, hunters may take multiple antlerless deer under specific licensing conditions.
Proposed in Legislature:
- House Bill 4191 / Senate Bill 65: Would legalize baiting during open deer seasons for a fee to fund wildlife disease testing.
- House Bill 4206: Would provide two free antlerless licenses with the purchase of a base license (nonresident licenses excluded).
- House Bill 4445: Proposes fully legalizing baiting without additional fees.
Tips for Michigan Deer Hunters
- Know your DMU regulations. Rules differ between counties—especially around APRs and antlerless allowances.
- Report your harvests on time. It’s mandatory within 72 hours.
- Use the right equipment. Some muzzleloader zones now allow standard firearms—verify your zone rules.
- Prepare for special hunts. Liberty and Independence hunts have specific gear and permit requirements.
- Stay informed on new laws. Legislative decisions around baiting and licensing may shift before the next season.
Final Thoughts
These changes are part of Michigan’s effort to modernize deer hunting, balance herd populations, and make access easier and safer. Whether you’re bowhunting, participating in a youth hunt, or preparing for firearm season, following these guidelines ensures a successful and legal experience in the field.
To stay up to date, download the Michigan DNR Hunt Fish app or visit Michigan.gov/DNRRegs.