Hunting in Michigan: 9 Animals To Hunt in the Fall

Michigan is home to legendary hunting opportunities and an abundance of animals are considered fair game for fall hunting. Hunters taking to the woods should always check with the state’s Department of Natural Resources for exact dates, but here are the most commonly hunted critters during the fall months.

1. Deer

Deer are typically hunted in Michigan in the early fall to late winter. Early antlerless firearm season takes place during the last week of September, while traditional firearm season is always from Nov. 15 to Nov. 30 each year. Archery hunters can take advantage of a longer season, from early October to mid-November. Two special hunts, the Liberty Hunt and the Independence Hunt, also take place during the fall providing an early opportunity for veterans, youth, and disabled individuals to take deer.

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2. Early Goose

Early goose season takes place in September each year.

3. Pheasant

Pheasant season takes place during the month of October for Zone 1. The zone is primarily Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.

4. Cottontail Rabbit/Snowshoe Hare

These small games animals have a long season, which begins in mid-September and stretches into the early spring.

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5. Sharp-tailed Grouse

Sharp-tailed grouse can be hunted from mid to late October each year. The season is usually three weeks long.

6. Wild Turkey

Fall wild turkey season take place from mid-September to mid-November in Michigan.

7. Ruffed Grouse

Ruffed grouse are considered fair game from mid-September to mid-November. Another season is also offered during the winter months.

8. Small Game

A handful of species can be taken year-round in Michigan, including opossum, porcupine, weasel, red squirrel, skunk, ground squirrel, woodchuck, feral swine, feral pigeons, starlings, and house sparrows. A valid state hunting license is still required to take these small game animals.

9. Elk

Elk can be hunted if an individual is in possession of an elk hunting license. These licenses are distributed annually by lottery, which also determines the dates the hunters may take to the woods. Traditionally, elk hunting season in Michigan is divided into three hunting periods. The first hunting period, which offers three hunt dates, takes place in the fall. The DNR changes the amount of elk available as well as permits, annually dependent upon wildlife management goals.

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

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