Hunting in Michigan: 9 Animals To Hunt in the Spring

When it comes to hunting in Michigan in the spring, there are several options for hunters. Here are nine of them:

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1. Spring Turkey

Spring turkey season takes place annually, from late April to late May, depending on what area of the state you hunt in. The application period for a spring turkey license takes place from early January until early February each year. Drawing results are usually posted in early March. A base hunting license is required in addition to a turkey license.

2. Opossum

Opossum may be hunted year-round in Michigan. Night hunting is permitted from mid-September to the end of March each year, but only with dogs. Night hunters must keep his/her firearm unloaded at the time of a hunt.

3. Woodchuck/Groundhogs

Woodchuck can be hunted year-round, making them a prime candidate for spring hunters. The only exception to the rule is that all state parks and recreation areas are closed to hunting from April 1 until mid-September.

4. Feral Swine

Feral swine are considered an invasive species in Michigan and can be killed on site at any time during the year with a valid Michigan hunting license. Individuals hunting wild hogs on private property are not required to meet the state hunting license, only to have the permission of the property owner.

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5. Feral Pigeons (Rock Doves)

Although not defined as a traditional game animal, feral pigeons can be hunted throughout the year in Michigan. Feral pigeons are known to carry communicable diseases to humans and their numbers rise each year in the state. A valid Michigan hunting license is required to hunt the bird regardless of the season.

6. Skunk

Skunk is another creature that may be taken year-round, including during spring months, except in state parks and recreation areas from April 1 to mid-September.

7. Red Squirrel

Michigan has an abundance of red squirrel. The state’s lush forestland, both public and private, provides an ideal habitat for red squirrel. Red squirrel can be hunted year-round with no bag limit, according to Outdoorhub.com.

8. Crow

Crow season takes place from early February until the end of March.

9. Cottontail Rabbit/Snowshoe Hare

Cottontail rabbit and snowshoe hare season starts in the middle of fall but runs until early spring, ending in late March each year.

This article is for information only. Please check current regulations before hunting.

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