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With Michigan’s firearm deer season opener just around the corner on November 15, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has introduced new rules to increase hunter participation.
Starting January 2 and running through January 12, hunters will have an extended firearm season for antlerless deer, providing a fresh opportunity into the new year, reports 13 On Your Side.
Additionally, this year’s late firearm season, beginning December 16, is now open to public land, expanding access beyond private property.
This change comes in response to a steady decline in Michigan hunters over the last 20 years, with numbers dropping by around 200,000.
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The decline has led to a rise in deer populations, impacting forest ecosystems, crops, and spreading diseases among deer.
Hunters in Zone 2, which extends from NGO County to the Mackinac Bridge, can now also use regular firearms during muzzleloader season from December 6 to December 15.
As a reminder, all hunters must report any deer harvested to the DNR within 72 hours.
These updates reflect the DNR’s commitment to sustainable deer management, creating more hunting options while promoting a balanced ecosystem across Michigan.
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is a seasoned outdoorsman, lifelong hunter, and the kind of guy who’d rather track whitetails than scroll social media. As an editor for GunsAmerica, he’s got a sharp eye for spotting both solid gear and bad gun laws. Whether he’s deep in the woods or deep in editorial deadlines, Larry brings a no-nonsense, tell-it-like-it-is approach to firearms, hunting, and the great American tradition of self-reliance. If there’s a hot debate on gun rights or the latest in hunting tech, you can bet Larry’s got an opinion—and it’s probably backed up with both facts and field experience.
Experience:
– Licensed Bowhunter, Hunter, and Trapper – Experienced in ethical hunting and wildlife conservation.
– Concealed Carry Permit Holder (NYS & AZ) – Trained and licensed to carry in multiple states.
– 2A Journalist – Covering firearms legislation, Second Amendment issues, and gun rights for over a decade.
– Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) – Certified to provide emergency medical care in the field.
– Field-Tested Gear Reviewer – Hands-on experience with firearms, optics, and hunting tech.