5 Michigan Hunting Seasons Officially Open Today

When most people think about hunting season in Michigan, deer hunting is usually the first thing that comes to mind. That makes sense, especially after this past weekend’s Liberty Hunt and early antlerless season.

However, deer aren’t the only reason hunters are heading into the woods right now.

Several regular small game hunting seasons officially open across Michigan today, September 15. Some will remain open for months, while others have a much shorter window.

What Can Michigan Hunters Legally Start Hunting on September 15?

Austin Tate on Unsplash

According to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, hunting seasons are now open for cottontail rabbit, snowshoe hare, fox and gray squirrel, ruffed grouse, and woodcock.

See Also: Michigan Deer Hunters Have a New Tagging Option This Season

Rabbit, hare and squirrel seasons run through March 31. Ruffed grouse season runs through November 14 before opening again from December 1 through January 1. Woodcock season ends October 29.

What Michigan Hunters Need to Know Before Small Game Hunting

Sebastian Pociecha on Unsplash

Before heading out, make sure you have a Michigan base license. If you’re going after woodcock, you’ll also need a free Harvest Information Program endorsement and woodcock stamp.

And don’t forget the hunter orange. It has to be visible from every side.

Most small game can be hunted from a half hour before sunrise until a half hour after sunset. Woodcock is a little different, with hunting hours running from sunrise to sunset.

Get our free mobile app

The daily limits are different depending on what you’re hunting and where you’re hunting. Take a minute to look over the regulations before heading out. It’s a lot easier than trying to figure it out once you’re already in the woods.

So, there you go. If you needed another excuse to get outside and do some hunting, you’ve officially got five of them.