Furbearer harvest regulations summary

Furbearer management

Managing furbearers

Michigan has 17 species of furbearers that can be harvested using hunting or trapping methods. The term “furbearer” generally applies to those species that historically have been harvested for their fur. Most of Michigan’s furbearer species are carnivores, with a few notable exceptions such as beaver and muskrat.

Given the large number of furbearer species that can be harvested in Michigan, there are many different types of furbearer-related recreational opportunities throughout the state. Fur harvesting has played an important role in the lives of many Michigan residents since long before statehood and has continued to the present day.

The Department of Natural Resources monitors furbearer populations and regularly reviews regulations to ensure that furbearers are managed to sustain populations, maintain recreational opportunities, and allow for mitigation of nuisance issues and damage control. Regulations are in place to ensure populations are not harvested in a way that may be unsustainable and to provide biologists information on species to aid in management (such as through mandatory registration).

For more information on furbearer management in Michigan, visit Michigan.gov/Trapping.

Healthy habitat is an important part of managing furbearers, including preventing the spread of invasive species. Protect habitats by starting each day with clean gear and equipment and decontaminate before leaving the location.

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Season dates and bag limits

Year-round furbearer harvest

Opossums, skunks and weasels can be harvested year-round, using all legal hunting and trapping methods for those species, statewide with a valid Michigan fur harvesting license. There are no bag limits for these species.

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Mitigating damage caused by furbearers

Beavers, coyotes, muskrats, opossums, raccoons, skunks and weasels can be harvested year-round, using all legal hunting and trapping methods for those species, on private property when doing or physically present where they could imminently cause damage. Damage means physical harm to forest products, roads, dams, buildings, orchards, apiaries, livestock and horticultural or agricultural crops. Beavers or muskrats are only considered to be doing damage if their activities result in flooding or culvert blockages that cause damage. A license or written permit is not needed.

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Furbearer hunting season dates

Season	Area	Season dates	Notes
Bobcat* hunting	Unit A	Jan. 1 – March 1	Kill tags available May 1 – Oct. 31
Bobcat* hunting	Unit B	Jan. 1 – March 1	Kill tags available May 1 – Oct. 31
Bobcat* hunting	Unit C	Jan. 1 – March 1	Kill tags available May 1 – Oct. 31
Bobcat* hunting	Unit D	Jan. 1 – Feb. 1	Kill tags available May 1 – Oct. 31
Bobcat* hunting	Unit G	Jan. 1–20	Kill tags available May 1 – Oct. 31
Bobcat* hunting	Unit H	Jan. 1–11	Kill tags available May 1 – Oct. 31
Coyote hunting	Statewide	July 15 – April 151	Nighttime hunting allowed
Fox (gray and red) hunting	Statewide	Oct. 15 – March 1	Nighttime hunting allowed
Opossum hunting	Statewide	Year-round	Nighttime hunting allowed
Raccoon hunting	Statewide	Oct. 1 – March 31	Nighttime hunting allowed
Skunk hunting	Statewide	Year-round	N/A
Weasel (least, short-tailed/ermine and long-tailed) hunting	Statewide	Year-round	N/A

^*Mandatory registration required for harvested furbearer.
¹Check Michigan.gov/DNRDigests for possible changes to the coyote hunting season dates that may have occurred after the printing of this publication.

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Furbearer trapping season dates

Season	Area	Season dates	Notes
Badger trapping	Zone 11	Oct. 15 – Nov. 14	N/A
Badger trapping	Zone 2	Oct. 15 – Nov. 14	N/A
Badger trapping	Zone 3	Nov. 1 – March 1	N/A
Beaver trapping (resident)	Unit A	Oct. 25 – April 30	N/A
Beaver trapping (resident)	Unit B	Nov. 1 – April 24	N/A
Beaver trapping (resident)	Unit C	Nov. 10 – April 24	N/A
Beaver trapping (nonresident)	Unit A	Nov. 15 – April 30	N/A
Beaver trapping (nonresident)	Unit B	Nov. 24 – April 24	N/A
Beaver trapping (nonresident)	Unit C	Dec. 15 – April 24	N/A
Bobcat* trapping	Unit A	Nov. 1–14 Dec. 1 – Jan. 18	Kill tags available May 1 – Oct. 31
Bobcat* trapping	Unit B	Nov. 1–14 Dec. 1 – Jan. 18	Kill tags available May 1 – Oct. 31
Bobcat* trapping	Unit C	Dec. 10–29	Kill tags available May 1 – Oct. 31
Bobcat* trapping	Unit D	Dec. 10–29	Kill tags available May 1 – Oct. 31
Bobcat* trapping	Unit G	Dec. 10–29	Kill tags available May 1 – Oct. 31, 2024
Bobcat* trapping	Unit H	Dec. 10–20	Kill tags available May 1 – Oct. 31
Coyote trapping	Statewide	Oct. 15 – March 1	Nonlethal cable restraints can be used Jan. 1 – March 1
Fox (gray and red) trapping	Statewide	Oct. 15 – March 1	Nonlethal cable restraints can be used Jan. 1 – March 1
Fisher* trapping	Zone 12	Dec. 5–14	Kill tags available May 1 – Dec. 14
Marten* trapping	Zone 12	Dec. 5–14	Kill tags available May 1 – Dec. 14
Muskrat trapping	Zone 1	Oct. 25 – March 1	N/A
Muskrat trapping	Zone 2	Nov. 1 – March 1	N/A
Muskrat trapping	Zone 3	Nov. 10 – March 1	N/A
Mink trapping	Zone 1	Oct. 25 – March 1	N/A
Mink trapping	Zone 2	Nov. 1 – March 1	N/A
Mink trapping	Zone 3	Nov. 10 – March 1	N/A
Opossum trapping	Statewide	Year-round	N/A
Otter* trapping	Unit A	Oct. 25 – March 31	Kill tags available May 1 – March 31
Otter* trapping	Unit B	Nov. 1 – March 31	Kill tags available May 1 – March 31
Otter* trapping	Unit C	Nov. 10 – March 31	Kill tags available May 1 – March 31
Raccoon trapping	Statewide	Oct. 1 – March 31	N/A
Skunk trapping	Statewide	Year-round	N/A
Weasel (least, short-tailed/ermine and long-tailed) trapping	Statewide	Year-round	N/A

^*Mandatory registration required for harvested furbearer.
¹Zone 1 badger management unit includes Baraga, Dickinson, Gogebic, Houghton, Iron, Keweenaw, Marquette, Menominee and Ontonagon counties and that area of Alger and Delta counties west of a line beginning at the point on the Lake Superior shoreline due north of where Federal Forest Highway 13 and H-58 intersect, then southerly upon Federal Forest Highway 13 to where it intersects with U.S. 2, then due south of the intersection of Federal Forest Highway 13 and U.S. 2 to the point of intersection with the Lake Michigan shoreline.
²Zone 1 for fisher and marten trapping excludes Drummond Island.

Can I set my traps out before the season opens?
No. You can only stake, put out or set a catching device when the open season for the targeted species begins.

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Furbearer season structure

Why are beaver and otter trapping season dates different?
Since 2020, the Michigan beaver and otter trapping seasons have ended at different times. This change was made to allow for more beaver harvest opportunities without increasing the spring harvest of otters. We are asking beaver trappers in April to make every effort to target only beaver and to make sets that are most likely to avoid otters. Reducing the April take of otters will help ensure the extended beaver season can remain in place and that we can offer expanded otter bag limits for the open season. However, if a trapper has otter kill tags, they can be used to tag otters taken in April if caught incidentally in beaver sets.

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Furbearer management units

Where can I find detailed descriptions of furbearer management unit boundaries?
For detailed descriptions of furbearer management unit boundaries, visit Michigan.gov/DNRLaws or contact a DNR customer service center, listed at Michigan.gov/ContactDNR.

What are the badger management units and boundaries?
The badger management units for trapping are defined in the Wildlife Conservation Order.

• Zone 1 is Baraga, Dickinson, Gogebic, Houghton, Iron, Keweenaw, Marquette, Menominee and Ontonagon counties and that area of Alger and Delta counties west of a line beginning at the point on the Lake Superior shoreline due north of where Federal Forest Highway 13 and H-58 intersect, then southerly upon Federal Forest Highway 13 to where it intersects with U.S. 2, then due south of the intersection of Federal Forest Highway 13 and U.S. 2 to the point of intersection with the Lake Michigan shoreline.
• Zone 2 and Zone 3 correspond with the Michigan hunting zones.

What are the beaver and otter management units and boundaries?
The beaver and otter management units for trapping correspond with the three Michigan hunting zones.

• Unit A is Zone 1.
• Unit B is Zone 2.
• Unit C is Zone 3.

Isle Royale, part of Keweenaw County (not pictured), is closed to beaver and otter trapping. 

Are there locations closed to beaver and otter trapping?
Yes. Beaver and otter trapping are closed in the following areas:

• Benzie County: Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.
• Leelanau County: Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.
• Schoolcraft County: Seney National Wildlife Refuge closed to otter trapping; contact the refuge about possible beaver trapping.

See listing of public-land trapping areas where a permit is required below.

What are the bobcat management units and boundaries?
The bobcat management units for hunting and trapping are defined in the Wildlife Conservation Order.

• Unit A is the Upper Peninsula, except Drummond Island.
• Unit B is Drummond Island.
• Unit C is Alcona, Alpena, Antrim, Charlevoix, Cheboygan, Emmet, Montmorency, Oscoda, Otsego and Presque Isle counties.
• Unit D is Arenac, Clare, Crawford, Gladwin, Iosco, Kalkaska, Missaukee, Ogemaw, Osceola, Roscommon and Wexford counties.
• Unit G is Bay, Benzie, Grand Traverse, Isabella, Lake, Leelanau, Manistee, Mason, Mecosta, Midland, Newaygo and Oceana counties.
• Unit H is Clinton, Gratiot, Ionia, Kent, Montcalm, Muskegon, Ottawa, Saginaw and Shiawassee counties.

Isle Royale, part of Keweenaw County (not pictured), is closed to bobcat hunting and trapping. 

What are the fisher and marten management units and boundaries?
The fisher and marten management units for trapping are defined in the Wildlife Conservation Order and correspond with the Michigan hunting and trapping zones. Fisher and marten trapping is open in all of Zone 1, except Drummond Island.

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Bag limits

What are the bag limits for furbearers?
The resident and nonresident bag limits for furbearer species are listed below.

Species	Resident bag limit	Nonresident bag limit
Badger	1	N/A
Beaver	No limit	No limit
Bobcat	21	N/A
Coyote	No limit	No limit
Fisher	2*	N/A
Fox (gray and red)	No limit	No limit
Marten	2*	N/A
Mink	No limit	No limit
Muskrat	No limit	No limit
Opossum	No limit	No limit
Otter	42	N/A
Raccoon	No limit	No limit
Skunk	No limit	No limit
Weasel (least, short-tailed/ermine and long-tailed)	No limit	No limit

¹One bobcat kill tag is valid for all lands and for all units combined. The second bobcat kill tag is valid for public and private lands in Unit A ONLY.
²Combined bag limit is four otters per resident fur harvester. Only three otters in a bag limit can be taken from Unit B. Only two otters in a bag limit can be taken from Unit C.
^*Fisher and marten have a combined bag limit of two animals.

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License types and fees

License types and fees by age

License type	Youth age 9 and under	Youth age 10–16	Resident age 17–64	Resident senior age 65+	Nonresident age 17+1
Base license* - valid through March 31, 2026	N/A	$6	$11	$5	$151
Bobcat kill tag	$02	$0	$0	$0	$0
DNR Sportcard3	$1	$1	$1	$1	$1
Fisher/marten kill tag	$02	$0	$0	$0	N/A
Fur harvester license4 — valid through April 30, 2026	N/A	$15	$15	$15	$15
Inclusive mentored license5	$0	$0	$0	$0	$0
Mentored youth license	$7.50	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A
Otter kill tag	$02	$0	$0	$0	N/A
Pure Michigan Hunt application6	N/A	$5	$5	$5	$5

^*One dollar from each of these licenses will be used to educate the public on the benefits of hunting, fishing and trapping in Michigan and the impact of these activities on the conservation, preservation and management of the state’s natural resources.
¹Nonresidents under 17 years old may purchase a resident base license.
²Must be a resident, 8 years old or older, to obtain kill tags for bobcat, fisher, marten or otter.
³The DNR Sportcard is not required if you have a valid state-issued driver’s license or ID card.
⁴Must purchase 2025 base license by Feb. 28, 2026, in order to purchase a fur harvester license in March or April 2026.
⁵The inclusive mentored license package is only available for qualified individuals at DNR offices, online through Michigan.gov/DNRLicenses or through the Michigan DNR Hunt Fish app.
⁶For more information on the Pure Michigan Hunt, visit Michigan.gov/PMH.

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Hunter education

Is hunter education required for purchasing a license?
Yes. If you were born on or after Jan. 1, 1960, you must present your hunter education certificate or previous hunting license (other than a base apprentice license) to purchase your license. Individuals who are qualified to hunt with inclusive mentored licenses are exempt from the hunter education requirements (see the Mentored hunting section for more details). A valid hunter education certificate from another state meets this requirement. Michigan’s hunter education courses are offered throughout the year around the state. The online course can be found at Michigan.gov/HunterEducation. For a replacement Michigan hunter education certificate, visit Michigan.gov/RecreationalSafety.

What are the rules for a youth hunter 10–16 years old who has a hunter education certificate?
A youth hunter 10–16 years old who has a hunter education certificate must be accompanied by an adult 18 years old or older while hunting, unless the youth is hunting on land where a parent or guardian regularly lives.

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Trapper education

Do I need to take a trapper education course?
No. Michigan’s trapper education course is voluntary but strongly recommended for those who are new to trapping. Safe hunting and trapping begin with education. The trapper education course helps individuals acquire the knowledge, skill, attitude and judgment to selectively and responsibly trap furbearing animals. Topics include understanding wildlife management, wildlife identification, various trapping techniques, ethics, laws and regulations. For more information on classes currently offered in your area, visit Michigan.gov/HunterEducation.

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Mentored hunting and trapping

What is the Mentored Hunting Program?
The Mentored Hunting Program is a set of rules that establishes the mentored youth license package and the inclusive mentored license package. Complete program details can be found at Michigan.gov/MentoredHunting.

What are the rules for a mentor participating in the Mentored Hunting Program?
A mentor is responsible for the mentored hunter’s actions in the field. A mentor must ensure the hunting device (shotgun, rifle, bow, etc.) used by the mentored hunter is properly fitted and appropriately suited for the mentored hunter. A mentor can only carry two hunting devices in the field. To participate as a mentor in the Mentored Hunting Program, you must meet all of the following qualifications:

• Be at least 21 years old.
• Have previous hunting experience.
• Possess a current-year Michigan base license that is not an apprentice license.

What is the mentored youth license?
The mentored youth license is a license package that allows youth hunters 9 years old and younger to hunt small game, waterfowl, turkey (spring and fall) and deer, trap furbearers, and fish for all species with a qualified mentor. It also allows the mentored youth hunter to apply for or purchase additional licenses including antlerless deer, bear, elk and fall turkey. The mentored youth license and kill tags will remain valid for the duration of the license year, even if the mentored youth hunter turns 10 years old during the year. Mentored youth fur harvesters can harvest furbearers on public lands or Commercial Forest lands.

I am 9 years old or younger and not a resident of Michigan. Can I purchase a mentored youth license?
Yes. The mentored youth license is available to both residents and nonresidents who are 9 years old or younger.

What is the inclusive mentored license?
The inclusive mentored license is a license package that allows individuals with developmental disabilities to hunt small game, waterfowl, turkey (spring and fall) and deer, trap furbearers and fish for all species with a qualified mentor. It also allows the mentored hunter to purchase additional licenses including antlerless deer, bear, elk and fall turkey.

Who qualifies for the inclusive mentored license?
To qualify for the inclusive mentored license, one of the following must apply:

• The mentored individual is a minor child with a developmental disability and is unable to complete hunter education.
• The mentored individual is an adult with a developmental disability, has a guardian appointed under chapter 6 of the mental health code (1974 PA 258, MCL 330.1600 to 330.1644) and is unable to complete hunter education.

I am a mentored hunter. Can I obtain furbearer kill tags?
Yes. If you are a Michigan resident and licensed under the Mentored Hunting Program, you can obtain kill tags for bobcat, fisher, marten or otter. You must be at least 8 years old to obtain furbearer kill tags.

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Apprentice hunting and trapping

What is the Apprentice Hunting Program?
The Apprentice Hunting Program allows a person who does not have a hunter education certificate and is 10 years old or older to hunt or trap during the current hunting and trapping seasons with a qualified mentor. An apprentice hunter or trapper will need to purchase a base apprentice license to participate. Additional licenses are required to hunt big game, furbearers and waterfowl. Complete program details can be found at Michigan.gov/MentoredHunting. Apprentice hunters and trappers can harvest furbearers on public lands and private or Commercial Forest lands.

I am not a resident of Michigan. Can I purchase a base apprentice license?
Yes. The base apprentice license is available to residents and nonresidents who do not have a hunter education certificate.

How many times can I purchase a base apprentice license?
You can purchase a base apprentice license for up to two license years before you must successfully complete a hunter education course and purchase a regular base license.

I am an apprentice hunter. Can I hunt by myself?
No. If you are licensed under the Apprentice Hunting Program, you must be accompanied by someone 21 years old or older who has a regular, current-year hunting license for the same game you are hunting. If you are an apprentice hunter who is 10–16 years old, your accompanying mentor must be your parent, guardian or someone designated by your parent or guardian who is at least 21 years old. A mentor can accompany no more than two apprentice hunters while hunting.

How close do I need to be to my accompanying mentor during the hunt?
Your accompanying mentor must be able to come to your immediate aid and stay within a distance that permits uninterrupted, unaided visual and verbal contact.

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Michigan residents

Do I qualify as a Michigan resident?
To qualify as a Michigan resident, you must meet one of the following criteria:

• Reside in a settled or permanent home or domicile within the boundaries of this state with the intention of remaining in this state. Resident status can only be claimed in one state.
• Be a full-time student at a Michigan college or university and reside in the state during the school year.
• Serve full-time in the U.S. military and be officially stationed in Michigan.
• Serve full-time in the U.S. military and maintain residency in Michigan.

I own land in Michigan but live in a different state. Can I purchase a resident fur harvester license or furbearer kill tags?
No. The ownership of land in Michigan by itself is not a qualification for a resident license. You would be considered a nonresident.

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Michigan veterans with disabilities

I am a Michigan veteran with a disability. Do I get a discount?
Yes. Michigan resident veterans with a service-connected disability are eligible to obtain any hunting and fur harvester license that does not require a separate application free of charge, if one of the following conditions is met:

• You have been determined by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs to be permanently and totally disabled as a result of military service and entitled to veterans’ benefits at the 100% rate, for disabilities other than blindness.
• You have been rated by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs as individually unemployable.

Documentation of eligibility from the Veterans Administration stating either of the above conditions must be in the possession of the veteran when obtaining free licenses and while afield. For more information on hunters with disabilities, visit Michigan.gov/DNRaccessibility.

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U.S. military personnel

I am a resident of Michigan and in the military. Do I get a discount?
Yes. If you are a full-time, active-duty member of the federal U.S. military and have maintained Michigan resident status, your hunting and fur harvester license fees are waived, except for hunting licenses obtained through a drawing. You must present military ID, leave papers, duty papers, military orders or other evidence verifying that you are an active-duty member of the military, along with a valid Michigan driver’s license or voter registration card.

I am not a resident of Michigan and in the military. Do I get a discount?
No. Hunting license fees are not waived for nonresidents, even if you are a full-time, active-duty member of the federal U.S. military.

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Treaty-authorized hunters and fur harvesters

Can I hunt with a tribal member?
Yes. You can hunt with a tribal member who is present and actively hunting if you possess a state-issued hunting license for the applicable species and season for which you are hunting. You must still follow all applicable state furbearer hunting regulations.

Can I trap with a tribal member?
Yes. You can trap with a tribal member who is present and actively trapping if you possess a state-issued fur harvest license and kill tag(s) for the applicable species and season for which you are trapping. You must still follow all applicable state furbearer trapping regulations.

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DNR Sportcard

What is a DNR Sportcard?
A DNR Sportcard serves as a valid form of identification for people without a driver’s license. There are no age restrictions or residency requirements for purchase. A DNR Sportcard is not required if you have a valid state-issued driver’s license or ID card. A DNR Sportcard with accurate information can be used from year to year.

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Base license

What is a base license?
A base license is required for everyone who hunts in Michigan. The base license provides funding for habitat and conservation work on both public and private land and supports the work of conservation officers and field staff to ensure safe, legal hunting and trapping practices are followed. The base license is not a kill tag and is valid for hunting small game. Additional licenses are required to hunt and trap other species. A valid base license is required to purchase a fur harvester license. Hunters are always encouraged to carry their base license when hunting or trapping.

I am a resident of Michigan. Can I hunt coyotes with just a base license?
Yes. Michigan residents can HUNT coyotes with a base license. However, if you are hunting coyotes Nov. 10–14, you must have a fur harvester license. Residents trapping coyotes must have a fur harvester license.

When can I purchase a 2025 base license?
The 2025 base license is currently available for purchase from any license agent, online at Michigan.gov/DNRLicenses or through the Michigan DNR Hunt Fish app. A 2025 base license is valid through March 31, 2026. Anyone who plans to purchase a 2025 fur harvester license in March or April 2026 must purchase their 2025 base license PRIOR to Feb. 28, 2026.

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Fur harvester license

What is a fur harvester license?
A fur harvester license is a non-kill-tag license that allows an individual to hunt and trap certain furbearing animals. Additional licenses are required to hunt or trap bobcat, fisher, marten and otter.

I am a resident of Michigan. What species can I harvest with my fur harvester license?
If you are a Michigan resident with a valid fur harvester license, you can hunt bobcat, coyote, fox, opossum, raccoon, skunk and weasel. Michigan residents with a valid fur harvester license can trap badger, beaver, bobcat, coyote, fisher, fox, marten, mink, muskrat, opossum, otter, raccoon, skunk and weasel. Residents licensed through the Mentored Hunting Program can trap furbearers without a fur harvester license. A free kill tag is required for bobcat, fisher, marten and otter.

I am not a resident of Michigan. What species can I harvest with my fur harvester license?
If you are a nonresident or a nonresident youth with a valid fur harvester license, you can hunt coyote, fox, opossum, raccoon, skunk and weasel and trap beaver, coyote, fox, mink, muskrat, opossum, raccoon, skunk and weasel. Nonresidents cannot harvest badger, bobcat, fisher, marten or otter in Michigan.

I want to accompany a bobcat hunter during a hunt. Do I need a fur harvester license?
If you are in possession of a bow, crossbow or firearm and accompanying a licensed bobcat hunter during the hunt, you must have a fur harvester license. A fur harvester license is also required if you are the owner of any dog chasing or locating bobcat on a hunt.

When is my fur harvester license valid?
Fur harvester licenses become available for purchase May 1, 2025, and are valid through April 30, 2026. HOWEVER, to purchase a 2025 fur harvester license AFTER Feb. 28, 2026, you must have purchased a 2025 base license. If you do not purchase a 2025 base license by Feb. 28, 2026, you cannot purchase a fur harvester license in March or April 2026.

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Furbearer kill tags

Which furbearer species do I need a kill tag for?
Michigan residents with a fur harvester license who intend to harvest a bobcat, fisher, marten or otter must request free kill tags for these species. The appropriate physical kill tag must be in the fur harvester’s possession prior to harvesting a bobcat, fisher, marten or otter.

What is the age requirement for obtaining furbearer kill tags?
Michigan residents must be at least 8 years old to obtain furbearer kill tags.

Can I allow someone else to hunt or trap using my furbearer kill tag?
No. You cannot use another person’s kill tag or allow another person to use your kill tag. It is illegal for a fur harvester to harvest or attempt to harvest a bobcat, fisher, marten or otter unless the fur harvester has an unused furbearer kill tag issued in their name for the species in which they are hunting or trapping.

Can I use the same kill tag on more than one furbearer?
No. You cannot use a kill tag more than once.

Can I use my kill tag on a furbearer someone else harvested?
No. You cannot use your kill tag on a furbearer you did not harvest.

When do furbearer kill tags become available?
All furbearer kill tags become available May 1, 2025.

How long do furbearer kill tags remain available?
Kill tags for fisher, marten and otter remain available through the last day of the trapping season. Bobcat kill tags are only available through Oct. 31.

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Incidental seals

What are incidental seals?
Incidental seals are provided by the DNR free of charge. An incidental seal must be affixed to a bobcat, otter, fisher, marten or any nongame protected species found dead or that dies while attempting to release the animal alive from a trap. Trappers should obtain incidental seals from a DNR office prior to trapping activity. All incidental seals remain the property of the DNR and must be returned by May 1 each year.

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Purchasing licenses and kill tags

Identification requirements

What identification do I need to purchase a license?
To purchase a hunting or trapping license (including free furbearer kill tags) in Michigan, you must have one of the following forms of identification:

• Valid Michigan driver’s license.
• Valid nonresident driver’s license.
• State of Michigan ID card (issued by the Secretary of State).
• Michigan DNR Sportcard.

Do I have to carry my hunting or trapping license(s) when hunting or trapping?
Yes. When hunting or trapping, you must carry your applicable hunting or trapping license(s) and the identification used to purchase the license(s) and present them upon demand of a Michigan conservation officer, a tribal conservation officer or any law enforcement officer.

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Where to buy licenses and kill tags

Where can I purchase a Michigan hunting/trapping license or kill tag?
You can purchase a Michigan hunting license, fur harvester license or kill tag from any license agent, online at Michigan.gov/DNRLicenses or through the Michigan DNR Hunt Fish app. The app is available for download at the Google Play Store or the Apple App Store. Find a license agent at Michigan.gov/DNRLicenseAgents.

I purchased my fur harvester license online. When will I get my license?
Non-kill-tag licenses purchased online will be sent as a PDF file in an email. Save the PDF so it can be reprinted if misplaced. You must be able to present an electronic copy of your fur harvester license while in the field.

I purchased my furbearer kill tag online. When will I get my kill tag?
If you purchased your furbearer kill tag online, your kill tag will be mailed to you seven to 10 business days after your purchase. You cannot go hunting or trapping for the designated species without the proper kill tag(s) in your possession.

Where can I purchase the inclusive mentored license package?
You can purchase an inclusive mentored license package from any DNR office, online through Michigan.gov/DNRLicenses or through the Michigan DNR Hunt Fish app.

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Lost licenses and kill tags

What do I do if I lost my hunting or trapping license?
If you originally purchased your hunting or trapping license at a license agent or online, you can visit a license agent and have your license(s) reprinted ($3 for non-kill-tag license replacement and full price for kill tag replacement). You must provide the identification number used to purchase the original license.

If you originally purchased your hunting or trapping license online, you received an email containing a PDF file of printable licenses (those without kill tags), including your base license. If you have an eLicense account, you can log in to your eLicense account and access your purchase history to reprint current non-kill-tag licenses free of charge. Call 517-284-6057 for licensing assistance.

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When and where to hunt/trap

Hunting hours

When is it legal for me to hunt furbearers?
Legal hunting hours for furbearers (one-half hour before sunrise to one-half hour after sunset) for Zone A are printed in the table. To determine the opening (a.m.) or closing (p.m.) time in another zone, add the minutes shown on the map for the zone to the time from the Zone A hunting hours table. The hunting hours listed in the table reflect Eastern Time, adjusted for daylight saving time where appropriate. If you are hunting in Gogebic, Iron, Dickinson or Menominee counties (Central Time), you must make an additional adjustment to the printed time by subtracting one hour.

For hunt dates not listed in the table, please consult your local newspaper or NOAA.gov.

Can I hunt furbearing species at night?
Yes. Coyote, fox (gray and red), opossum and raccoon can be hunted at night when following the regulations outlined in the Bows, crossbows and firearms during nighttime hours section. Nighttime hunting seasons are the same as regular daylight hunting seasons.

Hunting time zones map

Isle Royale, part of Keweenaw County (not pictured), is closed to hunting and trapping.

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Zone A hunting hours table (October – December 2025)

Hunting hours listed are one-half hour before sunrise to one-half hour after sunset (adjusted for daylight saving time).

Date	Time Zone A a.m.	Time Zone A p.m.
Oct. 1	7:00	7:43
Oct. 2	7:01	7:41
Oct. 3	7:02	7:40
Oct. 4	7:03	7:38
Oct. 5	7:04	7:36
Oct. 6	7:05	7:35
Oct. 7	7:06	7:33
Oct. 8	7:07	7:31
Oct. 9	7:09	7:29
Oct. 10	7:10	7:28
Oct. 11	7:11	7:26
Oct. 12	7:12	7:24
Oct. 13	7:13	7:23
Oct. 14	7:14	7:21
Oct. 15	7:15	7:20
Oct. 16	7:17	7:18
Oct. 17	7:18	7:16
Oct. 18	7:19	7:15
Oct. 19	7:20	7:13
Oct. 20	7:21	7:12
Oct. 21	7:22	7:10
Oct. 22	7:24	7:09
Oct. 23	7:25	7:07
Oct. 24	7:26	7:06
Oct. 25	7:27	7:04
Oct. 26	7:28	7:03
Oct. 27	7:30	7:02
Oct. 28	7:31	7:00
Oct. 29	7:32	6:59
Oct. 30	7:33	6:58
Oct. 31	7:35	6:56
Nov. 1	7:36	6:55
Nov. 2	6:37	5:54
Nov. 3	6:38	5:53
Nov. 4	6:40	5:51
Nov. 5	6:41	5:50
Nov. 6	6:42	5:49
Nov. 7	6:43	5:48
Nov. 8	6:45	5:47
Nov. 9	6:46	5:46
Nov. 10	6:47	5:45
Nov. 11	6:48	5:44
Nov. 12	6:50	5:43
Nov. 13	6:51	5:42
Nov. 14	6:52	5:41
Nov. 15	6:53	5:40
Nov. 16	6:55	5:39
Nov. 17	6:56	5:38
Nov. 18	6:57	5:37
Nov. 19	6:58	5:37
Nov. 20	6:59	5:36
Nov. 21	7:01	5:35
Nov. 22	7:02	5:35
Nov. 23	7:03	5:34
Nov. 24	7:04	5:33
Nov. 25	7:05	5:33
Nov. 26	7:06	5:32
Nov. 27	7:08	5:32
Nov. 28	7:09	5:32
Nov. 29	7:10	5:31
Nov. 30	7:11	5:31
Dec. 1	7:12	5:31
Dec. 2	7:13	5:30
Dec. 3	7:14	5:30
Dec. 4	7:15	5:30
Dec. 5	7:16	5:30
Dec. 6	7:17	5:30
Dec. 7	7:18	5:30
Dec. 8	7:19	5:30
Dec. 9	7:20	5:30
Dec. 10	7:21	5:30
Dec. 11	7:21	5:30
Dec. 12	7:22	5:30
Dec. 13	7:23	5:30
Dec. 14	7:24	5:30
Dec. 15	7:25	5:31
Dec. 16	7:25	5:31
Dec. 17	7:26	5:31
Dec. 18	7:26	5:32
Dec. 19	7:27	5:32
Dec. 20	7:28	5:32
Dec. 21	7:28	5:33
Dec. 22	7:29	5:33
Dec. 23	7:29	5:34
Dec. 24	7:29	5:35
Dec. 25	7:30	5:35
Dec. 26	7:30	5:36
Dec. 27	7:30	5:37
Dec. 28	7:31	5:37
Dec. 29	7:31	5:38
Dec. 30	7:31	5:39
Dec. 31	7:31	5:40

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Zone A hunting hours table (January – March 2026)

Hunting hours listed are one-half hour before sunrise to one-half hour after sunset (adjusted for daylight saving time).

Date	Time Zone A a.m.	Time Zone A p.m.
Jan. 1	7:31	5:41
Jan. 2	7:31	5:41
Jan. 3	7:31	5:42
Jan. 4	7:31	5:43
Jan. 5	7:31	5:44
Jan. 6	7:31	5:45
Jan. 7	7:31	5:46
Jan. 8	7:31	5:47
Jan. 9	7:31	5:48
Jan. 10	7:30	5:49
Jan. 11	7:30	5:50
Jan. 12	7:30	5:52
Jan. 13	7:29	5:53
Jan. 14	7:29	5:54
Jan. 15	7:29	5:55
Jan. 16	7:28	5:56
Jan. 17	7:28	5:57
Jan. 18	7:27	5:59
Jan. 19	7:26	6:00
Jan. 20	7:26	6:01
Jan. 21	7:25	6:02
Jan. 22	7:24	6:04
Jan. 23	7:24	6:05
Jan. 24	7:23	6:06
Jan. 25	7:22	6:07
Jan. 26	7:21	6:09
Jan. 27	7:20	6:10
Jan. 28	7:20	6:11
Jan. 29	7:19	6:13
Jan. 30	7:18	6:14
Jan. 31	7:17	6:15
Feb. 1	7:16	6:16
Feb. 2	7:15	6:18
Feb. 3	7:13	6:19
Feb. 4	7:12	6:20
Feb. 5	7:11	6:22
Feb. 6	7:10	6:23
Feb. 7	7:09	6:24
Feb. 8	7:08	6:26
Feb. 9	7:06	6:27
Feb. 10	7:05	6:28
Feb. 11	7:04	6:30
Feb. 12	7:03	6:31
Feb. 13	7:01	6:32
Feb. 14	7:00	6:33
Feb. 15	6:58	6:35
Feb. 16	6:57	6:36
Feb. 17	6:56	6:37
Feb. 18	6:54	6:39
Feb. 19	6:53	6:40
Feb. 20	6:51	6:41
Feb. 21	6:50	6:42
Feb. 22	6:48	6:44
Feb. 23	6:47	6:45
Feb. 24	6:45	6:46
Feb. 25	6:44	6:47
Feb. 26	6:42	6:49
Feb. 27	6:41	6:50
Feb. 28	6:39	6:51
March 1	6:37	6:52
March 2	6:36	6:53
March 3	6:34	6:55
March 4	6:32	6:56
March 5	6:31	6:57
March 6	6:29	6:58
March 7	6:28	6:59
March 8	7:26	8:01
March 9	7:24	8:02
March 10	7:22	8:03
March 11	7:21	8:04
March 12	7:19	8:05
March 13	7:17	8:06
March 14	7:16	8:08
March 15	7:14	8:09
March 16	7:12	8:10
March 17	7:10	8:11
March 18	7:09	8:12
March 19	7:07	8:13
March 20	7:05	8:15
March 21	7:04	8:16
March 22	7:02	8:17
March 23	7:00	8:18
March 24	6:58	8:19
March 25	6:57	8:20
March 26	6:55	8:21
March 27	6:53	8:22
March 28	6:51	8:24
March 29	6:50	8:25
March 30	6:48	8:26
March 31	6:46	8:27

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Hunting and trapping zones

What are the hunting and trapping zone boundaries?
Michigan is divided into three hunting and trapping zones: Zone 1, Zone 2 and Zone 3. Zone 1 includes all of the Upper Peninsula. The dividing line between Zone 2 and Zone 3 is from the Lake Michigan shoreline north of Muskegon Lake easterly on Memorial Drive to Ruddiman Drive to Lake Avenue, easterly on Lake Avenue to M-120 in North Muskegon, northeasterly on M-120 to M-20, easterly on M-20 to U.S. 10, easterly on U.S. 10 to Garfield Road in Bay County, northerly on Garfield Road to Pinconning Road, easterly on Pinconning Road to Seven Mile Road, northerly on Seven Mile Road to Lincoln School Road (County Road 25) in Arenac County, northerly on Lincoln School Road to M-61, easterly on M-61 to U.S. 23, easterly on U.S. 23 to center line of AuGres River, southerly along center line of AuGres River to Saginaw Bay, easterly 90 degrees east for 7 miles into Saginaw Bay, then northerly 78 degrees east to the International Boundary.

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Limited firearms deer zone

What is the limited firearms deer zone?
Michigan is divided into a northern zone and a southern limited firearms deer zone, where only shotguns, certain firearms and certain handguns can be used before and during the firearm deer season. See the Equipment regulations sections for impacts to fur harvesting.

What are the limited firearms deer zone boundaries?
The dividing line between the northern zone and the southern limited firearms deer zone is as follows: starting at a point on the Lake Michigan shoreline directly west of M-46, then easterly to M-46, then easterly along M-46 to U.S. 131 at Cedar Springs, southerly on U.S. 131 to M-57, easterly on M-57 to Montcalm Road on the Kent-Montcalm county line, southerly on Montcalm Road and the Kent-Ionia county line to M-44, easterly on M-44 to M-66, northerly on M-66 to M-57, easterly on M-57 to M-52 near Chesaning, northerly on M-52 to M-46, easterly on M-46 to M-47, northerly on M-47 to U.S. 10 west of Bay City, easterly on U.S. 10 to I-75, northerly on I-75 and U.S. 23 to Beaver Road (about 1 mile north of Kawkawlin), easterly to Saginaw Bay, north 50 degrees east to the International Boundary.

Isle Royale, part of Keweenaw County (not pictured), is closed to hunting and trapping. 

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Safety zones

What are the safety zones around buildings when hunting with a firearm?
Safety zones are all areas within 150 yards (450 feet) of an occupied building, dwelling, house, residence, cabin or any barn or other building used in a farm operation. No person may hunt or shoot at any wild animal or wild bird with a firearm within a safety zone without the written permission of the owner or occupant of the property. The safety zone applies to hunting only. It does not apply to indoor or outdoor shooting ranges, target shooting, law enforcement activities or the lawful discharge of firearms for any nonhunting purpose.

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National forest lands

Can I hunt and trap on national forest lands?
Yes. Opportunities to hunt and trap on national forest lands may be available for the Hiawatha, Huron-Manistee and Ottawa national forests. All state laws apply to national forest lands. Additional federal regulations also apply. For a complete listing of regulations, see 36 CFR 261 (Code of Federal Regulations) at FS.USDA.gov. Please be aware, it is unlawful to trap any species within Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.

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DNR-managed lands

Over 4.5 million acres of public lands are managed by the DNR and open to hunting and trapping!

Where can I find public hunting and trapping lands near me?
You can find places to hunt and trap by visiting Michigan.gov/MiHunt. The interactive DNR map application MiHUNT can help you plan your hunting, trapping and other outdoor recreation adventures. It is the responsibility of the users of these maps to be aware of all regulations relevant to their hunting and trapping activities and locations. These maps show approximate boundaries of the lands open to public hunting and trapping.

Where can I find the rules for DNR-managed lands?
You can find the DNR-managed land use rules at Michigan.gov/DNRLaws. Please keep in mind that you cannot:

• Cut branches, limbs, trees or other vegetation for shooting lanes on public lands.
• Block any gate, road or trail on public lands.
• Camp on public lands without a permit. Permits are free and are available online at Michigan.gov/Camping or at any DNR office. They must be posted at your campsite. A fee is charged for camping at designated campsites in state parks, recreation areas, state forest campgrounds and some state game areas.

Are there any public lands where a special permit is required for trapping?
Yes. A special permit is required to trap in the management areas listed below. Trapping season closure dates may vary. Contact area headquarters for details.

• Muskegon State Game Area: Trapping permits are required for beaver and otter and are available at the game area headquarters.
• Grand Haven State Game Area (Poel Island Waterfowl Refuge): Trapping permits are available at the Muskegon State Game Area headquarters.
• Fish Point State Wildlife Area: Trapping permits are available at the wildlife area headquarters.
• Nayanquing Point State Wildlife Area: Trapping permits are available at the wildlife area headquarters.
• Wigwam Bay State Wildlife Area: Trapping permits are available at the Nayanquing Point State Wildlife Area headquarters.
• Shiawassee River State Game Area: Trapping permits are available at the St. Charles DNR field office. Trapping permits for the Shiawassee National Wildlife Refuge may be obtained from the refuge manager.
• Pte. Mouillee State Game Area: Trapping permits are available at the game area headquarters.
• Bay City State Park (Tobico Marsh Unit): Trapping permits are available at the state park headquarters.
• Crow Island State Game Area: Trapping permits are available at the DNR Bay City Customer Service Center.
• St. Clair Flats State Wildlife Area (Harsens Island): Trapping permits are available at the wildlife area headquarters.

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State parks and recreation areas

Can I hunt and trap in state parks and recreation areas?
Yes. Some state parks and recreation areas are open to hunting and trapping. State parks are closed to hunting and trapping unless opened by law (see Michigan.gov/DNRLaws). State recreation areas are open to hunting and trapping unless closed by law. Approximately 92 percent of state park and state recreation area lands are open to hunting and trapping.

Are there restrictions on hunting and trapping in state parks and recreation areas?
Yes. Contact individual parks or recreation areas for current hunting and trapping regulations and any restrictions for those areas prior to hunting or trapping.

• You cannot use a centerfire rifle or centerfire pistol to take an animal during nighttime hours in any state park or state recreation area.
• You cannot target shoot in a state park or recreation area, except on designated shooting ranges located at Algonac State Park and Bald Mountain, Island Lake, Ortonville and Pontiac Lake recreation areas.
• You cannot trap within 50 feet of the mowed portions of developed areas within state recreation areas.

Can I camp at a state park or recreation area while hunting or trapping?
Yes. Camping is allowed only on designated campsites. Some state parks and recreation areas have seasonal closures. To make camping reservations, go to MiDNRReservations.com.

Do I need a Recreation Passport to use state parks and recreation areas?
Yes. If you are hunting, trapping or camping in state parks or recreation areas, you must have a Recreation Passport. The Recreation Passport gives you access to all 103 state parks and recreation areas as well as all state forest campgrounds and DNR-administered boat launches in Michigan. Camping fees remain in effect. For more information, visit Michigan.gov/RecreationPassport or call 517-284-7275. Michigan residents have the opportunity to buy a Recreation Passport for $14 when renewing their vehicle registration with the Secretary of State. Vehicles registered in other states will require a daily ($11) or annual ($41) fee to enter a state park or DNR-administered boating access site. State forest campgrounds and access sites do not require a Recreation Passport.

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Local municipalities

Are there any local municipalities with hunting or trapping restrictions?
Yes. Some local municipalities may be closed to hunting, trapping or the discharge of firearms. Please contact the local municipality office or local law enforcement agency to find out about restrictions.

Are there townships with hunting restrictions?
Yes. Townships or parts of townships in these counties are closed to hunting or restricted to types of firearms or the discharge of firearms as posted: Alcona, Arenac, Barry, Berrien, Crawford, Eaton, Emmet, Genesee, Iosco, Jackson, Kalamazoo, Livingston, Macomb, Manistee, Oakland, Otsego, Ottawa, Presque Isle, Saginaw, St. Clair, Washtenaw and Wayne. These areas are posted with the restrictions. For descriptions, contact the appropriate township clerk or township police department. Find county-specific rules at Michigan.gov/DNRLaws.

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Commercial Forest lands

What are Commercial Forest lands?
Commercial Forest lands are privately owned forests enrolled in the Commercial Forest Program. CF landowners are not required to identify the property as CF, and CF land may be fenced and/or gated. The presence of a fence or gate does not prohibit public access to CF lands for fishing, hunting or trapping. The landowner may restrict public access during periods of active commercial logging to ensure public safety. Descriptions of land in the CF program and a GIS map are available on the DNR website at Michigan.gov/CommercialForest. CF parcels can also be found using Mi-HUNT at Michigan.gov/MiHunt. Contact the DNR Forest Resources Division at 517-284-5900 or visit the Commercial Forest webpage for more information about CF lands.

Can I hunt and trap on Commercial Forest lands?
Yes. Over 2.2 million acres of privately owned forests enrolled in the Commercial Forest program are accessible by foot to the public for fishing, hunting and trapping. To hunt or trap all species, you must possess licenses that are valid for private-land hunting or trapping. Use of motorized vehicles for fishing, hunting or trapping access is at the landowner’s discretion. Any activities other than the acts of fishing, hunting and trapping require landowner permission. Leaving anything unattended, other than traps, also requires landowner permission. In addition, hunters may not build structures or construct blinds other than with natural materials found on-site. The use of nails, bolts or tree steps is not allowed. The cutting of shooting lanes or destruction of brush, trees or other vegetation is prohibited. Commercial activity on CF lands is not allowed for any purpose other than forestry or oil and gas extraction.

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Hunting Access Program

What is the Hunting Access Program?
The Hunting Access Program provides public hunting opportunities on private hunting lands. The DNR leases lands from private landowners to allow public hunting. This program is now one of the oldest dedicated private-lands, public-access programs in the nation. Private landowners determine whether all hunters or youth and apprentice hunters only may hunt on their property. They also determine whether hunters may harvest deer only, turkey only, small game only, sharp-tailed grouse only, all legal species or a combination of any of these options. Property owners specify the maximum number of hunters allowed on the land at any one time. Members of the public can use HAP lands only for hunting purposes; no other activities or recreation are permissible.

How do I hunt on HAP lands?
If you utilize a HAP property, you are a guest of the landowner. Respect for the landowner and landowner’s privacy is vital. You should use the types of registration service provided. Appropriate conduct is expected and helps ensure a good experience for both you and the landowner. All rules and regulations enforced by the DNR apply while hunting on HAP lands. Lands enrolled in HAP are available each day on a first-come, first-served basis. Hunters must register at each property headquarters to hunt for that day. To help hunters locate and scout HAP lands, aerial photographs of HAP properties are available at Michigan.gov/MiHunt.

Where can I find more information on HAP?
For more information on HAP, including a current listing of enrolled lands, property details, registration details, HAP rules and enrollment applications, visit Michigan.gov/HAP.

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Waterways

Can I float hunt or set traps along waterways?
Hunting and trapping are exclusive rights of landowner(s) bordering the waterway and their invited guests. You must secure permission from the landowner(s) before float hunting or setting traps along those waterways that are protected by the recreational trespass law. You can float hunt or set traps on and along waterways that are surrounded by public lands and open to hunting.

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Rights of way

Can I hunt or set traps within a road right of way?
You can hunt or set traps within a road right of way where the adjoining property is publicly owned. If the adjacent property is privately owned, you must have permission from the landowner.

Can I hunt or set traps within a railroad right of way?
Railroad rights of way are private property. Trespassing on railroad property is a misdemeanor. You must have written permission from the railroad company to be exempt from trespass.

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Trespassing

Do I need permission to hunt or trap on someone’s private land?
Yes. Trespassing is unlawful and erodes support for recreational hunting and trapping. Written or verbal permission is required from the landowner or leaseholder before you hunt or trap on any farmlands, connected woodlots, private land or property that is fenced or enclosed. Hunters and fur harvesters are required to produce their hunting or trapping licenses to landowners upon request. Unless previously prohibited by the landowner, a person not possessing a firearm may enter on foot upon the property of another person for the sole purpose of retrieving a hunting dog. The person cannot remain on the property beyond the reasonable time necessary to retrieve the dog.

What if the furbearer I wounded goes onto private land?
If you wound a furbearing animal and it goes onto private property, you have no legal right to pursue it without permission from the landowner and would be subject to prosecution for trespassing.

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Equipment regulations

Are there any types of equipment I cannot use to hunt or trap a furbearer?
Yes. Except as provided by the trapping rules outlined in this regulations summary or by special permit, you cannot use any of the following types of equipment to hunt or trap a furbearer in Michigan:

• Snares, traps, cages, nets, pitfalls or deadfalls.
• Spears, fully automatic firearms, airbows or mechanical devices other than bows, crossbows, firearms or slingshots.
• Cartridges containing tracer or explosive bullets.
• Drugs, poisons, anticoagulants, stupefying substances, smoke, gas or explosives.

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Hunter orange

Do I need to wear hunter orange while hunting furbearers?
Yes. If you are hunting furbearers during the established daylight hunting hours from Aug. 15 through April 30, you must wear a cap, hat, vest, jacket or rain gear of hunter orange. The hunter orange garments must be your outermost layer and be visible from all sides. Hunter orange includes camouflage that is not less than 50 percent hunter orange.

Do I need to wear hunter orange while hunting furbearers at night?
No. If you are hunting furbearers during the established nighttime hunting hours, you are exempt from the hunter orange requirement.

Do I need to wear hunter orange while stationary and hunting bobcat, coyote or fox?
No. If you are hunting bobcat, coyote or fox and are stationary, you are exempt from the hunter orange requirement.

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Elevated platforms and ground blinds

Can I hunt furbearers from an elevated platform?
Yes. You can hunt the following furbearers from an elevated platform if you are:

• A bow or crossbow hunter (all furbearer species).
• A coyote, fox, raccoon or opossum hunter (day or night).
• A bobcat hunter (day only).

A fall arrest system is recommended. All other fur harvesters using a firearm are prohibited from using an elevated platform. Permanent elevated platforms are not allowed on Commercial Forest lands. The use of tree steps, nails, screws, bolts, etc. is also not allowed on Commercial Forest lands.

When can I set up my elevated platform on public lands?
You can place an elevated platform on public lands beginning Sept. 1. You must remove your elevated platform(s) from public lands by March 1.

Are there other restrictions for elevated platforms placed on public lands?
Yes. If you hunt on public lands, your elevated platform must be portable. Elevated platforms on public lands cannot be affixed or attached to any tree by nails, screws or bolts. However, a “T” bolt or similar device supplied by a tree stand manufacturer can be used. Screw-in tree steps are illegal on public lands. It is unlawful to use any item that penetrates through the bark of a tree in the construction or affixing of any device to assist in climbing a tree.

Can I use a ground blind on public lands during the furbearer hunting seasons?
Yes. You can use a ground blind on public lands to hunt furbearers during the furbearer hunting seasons. However, only the following three types of ground blinds are legal on public lands:

• Type 1 (portable ground blind): This blind must be clearly portable and removed at the end of each day’s hunt (if you wish to leave your blind out overnight, see Type 3 below). Fasteners, if used to attach or anchor the blind, cannot penetrate the cambium of a tree and must be removed daily. No identification is required. These blinds may be used for legal hunting on public land, including all state game areas, state parks and state recreation areas in Zone 3.
• Type 2 (dead natural materials ground blind): This blind must be constructed exclusively of dead and natural materials found on the ground in the area of the blind, except that a hunter can add netting, cloth, plastic or other materials for concealment or protection from the weather if these materials are not permanently fastened to the blind and are removed at the end of each day’s hunt. These items can be tied to the blind but cannot be stapled, nailed, glued or fastened in any permanent manner. No identification is required. Fasteners (nails, screws, etc.) cannot be used in construction. These blinds may be used for legal hunting on public land, including all state game areas, state parks and state recreation areas in Zone 3.
• Type 3 (constructed ground blind): This includes all other blinds not meeting the requirements of either Type 1 or Type 2, including portable ground blinds, if not removed daily. Identification is required. Fasteners, if used to anchor or attach the blind, cannot penetrate the cambium of a tree and must be removed with the blind. These blinds are not legal in state game areas, state parks and state recreation areas in Zone 3. Note: If a person’s Type 3 ground blind has been permitted to be placed on land administered by a local public agency (city, township, county), the local agency will establish the length of time that a blind may be placed on its property.

For detailed descriptions of hunting and trapping zone boundaries, visit Michigan.gov/DNRLaws or contact a DNR customer service center, listed at Michigan.gov/ContactDNR.

Can I use a ground blind on private lands during the furbearer hunting seasons?
Yes. You can use a ground to hunt furbearers on private lands during the furbearer hunting seasons with the permission of the landowner. Permanent ground blinds are not allowed on Commercial Forest lands.

What information must I tag my elevated platform or ground blind with?
In legible English, you must permanently affix your name and address or Michigan driver’s license number or DNR Sportcard number to the elevated platform or Type 3 ground blind if it is placed on public lands.

Can someone else use my elevated platform or ground blind that is on public lands?
Yes. Your name and address or Michigan driver’s license number or DNR Sportcard number on an elevated platform or ground blind placed on public lands does not guarantee exclusive use.

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Bows, crossbows and firearms during daytime hours

What equipment can I use to harvest furbearers?
You can use a bow, a crossbow, a firearm (per regulations explained in this section) or traps (per regulations explained in the Trap regulations section).

What equipment can a mentor carry in the field when mentoring?
A mentor is limited to two hunting devices (shotgun, rifle, bow or crossbow) in the field while mentoring, and the mentored hunter must always be within arm’s length of the mentor. The mentor will be held responsible for all actions of the mentored hunter while in the field.

What equipment can a mentored hunter use?
Mentored hunters licensed under the Mentored Hunting Program can use a bow, a crossbow or a firearm. Any hunting device possessed by a mentored hunter must be sized appropriately to fit the physical abilities of the mentored hunter.

What equipment can an apprentice hunter use?
Apprentice hunters can use a bow, a crossbow or a firearm.

Can I use a crossbow to hunt furbearers?
Yes. You can use a crossbow during any season in which a firearm is allowed to hunt furbearers.

Can I use a pneumatic gun to hunt furbearers?
Yes. You can use a pneumatic gun to hunt furbearers.

What are the centerfire firearm restrictions I must follow when hunting furbearers during the daytime hunting hours?
Centerfire firearms can be used to hunt furbearers during regular daytime hunting hours statewide when following all applicable regulations, except during the quiet period (Nov. 10–14). Centerfire firearms of any caliber can be used north of the limited firearms deer zone while hunting or trapping furbearers from Nov. 15–30. See below for additional restrictions in the firearm deer season.

Is there a shell capacity for centerfire firearms?
Yes. You cannot hunt with a semi-automatic centerfire firearm that can hold more than six shells in the barrel and magazine combined.

What are the rimfire firearm restrictions I must follow when hunting furbearers during the daytime hunting hours?
Rimfire firearms can be used to hunt furbearers during regular daytime hunting hours statewide when following all applicable regulations, except during the quiet period (Nov. 10–14). Fur harvesters may carry a rimfire firearm .22-caliber or smaller while actively hunting or checking trap lines during Nov. 10–14. Rimfire firearms of any caliber can be used north of the limited firearms deer zone while hunting or trapping furbearers during the firearm deer season (Nov. 15–30). Rimfire firearms .22 caliber or smaller can be used in the limited firearms deer zone to kill a badger, bobcat, coyote, fox or raccoon in a trap from Nov. 15–30 (firearm must be loaded at the point of kill only). See below for additional restrictions during the firearm deer season.

Is there a shell capacity for rimfire firearms?
Yes. You cannot hunt furbearers with a semi-automatic rimfire firearm that can hold more than six shells in the barrel and magazine combined, unless it is a .22-caliber or smaller rimfire.

What are the shotgun restrictions I must follow when hunting or trapping furbearers during the daytime hunting hours?
Shotguns can be used to hunt furbearers during regular daytime hunting hours statewide when following all applicable regulations. During the quiet period (Nov. 10–14), fur harvesters may carry a shotgun with shotshells for hunting small game, but cannot possess buckshot, slugs, ball loads or cut shells.

Is there a shell capacity for shotguns?
Yes. You cannot hunt with a semi-automatic shotgun that can hold more than six shells in the barrel and magazine combined.

What are the handgun restrictions I must follow when hunting or trapping furbearers during the daytime hunting hours?
A handgun can be used to hunt furbearers during any season in which a firearm is allowed if following the rules listed below. The rules listed below may not apply to those having a concealed pistol license or specifically exempt by law from a CPL and carrying their handgun in accordance with their license or exemption:

• A person must be at least 18 years of age to hunt with or possess a handgun.
• Handguns cannot be borrowed or loaned to another person other than provided for under the CPL.
• While in the field, handguns must be carried in plain view.
• Carrying a handgun in a holster in plain view is permitted.
• It is a crime for certain felons to possess ammunition and firearms, including rifles and shotguns, in Michigan.

I have a concealed pistol license. Can I carry my pistol while hunting?
Yes. The prohibition on carrying any other type of firearm does not apply to pistols carried under authority of a concealed pistol license, or under a specific exception from the CPL requirement.

I am not a resident of Michigan. What documentation do I need to carry a handgun in Michigan?
You must own and have in your possession either a concealed pistol license or a license to purchase, carry or transport issued by your home state to legally carry or transport a handgun in Michigan. For more information about statewide handgun regulations, obtaining a CPL or concealed weapons and firearms laws, contact your local police department.

Are there additional firearm restrictions I must follow during the firearm deer season (Nov. 15–30) when hunting or trapping furbearers in the limited firearms deer zone?
Yes. If you are hunting or trapping in the limited firearms deer zone between Nov. 15–30 and are not killing a coyote, fox, raccoon, bobcat or badger in a trap or hunting with dogs between the hours of 7 p.m. and 6 a.m., you must abide by the following firearm restrictions or use a crossbow or a bow. Legal firearms are as follows:

• A shotgun with a smooth or rifled barrel of any gauge.
• A muzzleloading rifle or black powder handgun loaded with black powder or a commercially manufactured black powder substitute.
• A conventional (smokeless powder) handgun .35-caliber or larger and loaded with straight-walled cartridges. It may be single- or multiple-shot but cannot exceed a maximum capacity of nine rounds in the barrel and magazine combined.
• A .35-caliber or larger rifle loaded with straight-walled cartridges with a minimum case length of 1.16 inches and a maximum case length of 1.8 inches.
• A .35-caliber or larger air rifle or pistol charged only from an external, high-compression power source.

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Bows, crossbows and firearms during nighttime hours

What equipment can I use when hunting furbearers at night?
If you are a licensed fur harvester hunting furbearers at night, you can travel afoot with: a bow; a crossbow; a pneumatic gun; a rimfire firearm .22-caliber or smaller; a shotgun with loads other than buckshot larger than size 3, slug or cut shell; or a centerfire rifle or centerfire pistol .269-caliber or smaller. See below for additional restrictions during Nov. 10–30. A fur harvester hunting furbearers at night must use a game call, predator call or the aid of dogs. Dogs cannot be used April 16 through July 7. When hunting with dogs at night, a fur harvester can only possess a loaded firearm, a cocked crossbow or a bow with a nocked arrow at the point of kill.

Are there areas where centerfire firearms cannot be used to hunt furbearers at night?
Yes. It is unlawful to use a centerfire rifle or centerfire pistol to take an animal during nighttime hours in any state park or state recreation area.

Are there additional firearm restrictions I must follow during the quiet period (Nov. 10–14) when hunting or trapping furbearers at night?
Yes. If you are fur harvesting at night during the quiet period (Nov. 10–14), you can carry a shotgun with shotshells for hunting small game, but cannot possess buckshot, slugs, ball loads or cut shells during this time. Fur harvesters can also carry a rimfire firearm .22-caliber or smaller while actively hunting or checking trap lines.

Are there additional firearm restrictions I must follow during the firearm deer season (Nov. 15–30) when hunting or trapping furbearers in the limited firearms deer zone at night?
Yes. The restrictions listed below must be followed if you are hunting or trapping furbearers in the limited firearms deer zone at night during the firearm deer season (Nov. 15–30):

• A .22-caliber or smaller rimfire firearm can be used to kill a badger, bobcat, coyote, fox or raccoon in a trap. Firearms must be loaded at the point of kill only.
• A .22-caliber or smaller rimfire firearm can be used to kill a raccoon while hunting with dogs between the hours of 7 p.m. and 6 a.m. Firearms must be loaded at the point of kill only.
• Fur harvesters not killing a badger, bobcat, coyote, fox or raccoon in a trap or a raccoon while hunting with dogs between the hours of 7 p.m. and 6 a.m. must use a bow, a crossbow or a shotgun of any gauge with a smooth or rifled barrel.

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Artificial lights

Can I use artificial lights when hunting for furbearers at night?
Yes. If you are in compliance with the nighttime regulations outlined in the Bows, crossbows and firearms during nighttime hours section, you can use artificial light of the type ordinarily held in the hand or on the person.

Can I use optics such as scopes or laser sights when hunting furbearers at night?
Yes. If you are in compliance with the nighttime regulations outlined in the Bows, crossbows and firearms during nighttime hours section, you can use scopes, open sights, thermal sights, infrared sights or laser sights.

What are the restrictions on using artificial lights when I am not hunting furbearers at night?
These restrictions do not apply to pistols carried under the authority of a concealed pistol license or properly carried under authority of a specific exemption from the requirement of a concealed pistol license. This does not authorize the individual to use the pistol to take game except as provided by law.

• It is unlawful to use an artificial light (including vehicle headlights) to locate wild animals at any time during November and all other days of the year between 11 p.m. and 6 a.m.
• It is unlawful to use an artificial light on a highway or in a field, wetland, woodland or forest while having in your possession or control a bow, firearm or other device capable of shooting a projectile.
• An artificial light may be used from Nov. 1–30 on property you own or property owned by a member of your immediate family if you do not have in your possession or control a bow, firearm or other device capable of shooting a projectile.
• It is a violation of federal law to shine at any time on any national wildlife refuge.
• If you do not have a firearm or bow while traveling on foot, you may use lights during dog training or field trials to follow dogs chasing raccoon, opossum or fox.
• A lighted pin sight on a bow or a scope with illuminated crosshairs may be used to hunt game during legal hunting hours.

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Transporting bows, crossbows and firearms

How should I transport my bow, crossbow or firearm when afield outside the legal hunting hours?
Firearms must be unloaded in the barrel and all arrows must be in a quiver when you are afield outside the legal hunting hours.

How should I transport my bow, crossbow or firearm while in or on a motor vehicle?
These rules apply whether your vehicle is parked, stopped or moving. At all times when carried in or on a motor vehicle:

• Rifles, shotguns, muzzleloaders and all other firearms must be unloaded in both barrel and magazine and enclosed in a case or carried in the trunk of a vehicle on private or public property.
• Crossbows, slingshots and bows must be unloaded and uncocked or enclosed in a case or carried in the trunk of a vehicle while that vehicle is operated on public land or on a highway, road or street.
• A person holding a valid permit to hunt from a standing vehicle may transport or possess an uncased firearm with a loaded magazine on a personal assistive mobility device if the action is open.

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How should I transport my bow, crossbow or firearm while in or on an off-road vehicle?

These rules apply whether your off-road vehicle is parked, stopped or moving. At all times, when carried in or on an off-road vehicle:

• Rifles, shotguns, muzzleloaders and all other firearms must be unloaded in both barrel and magazine or enclosed in a case or unloaded and equipped with and made inoperative by a manufactured, key-locked, trigger-housing mechanism.
• Crossbows, slingshots and bows must be unloaded and uncocked or enclosed in a case or carried in the trunk of a vehicle while that vehicle is operated on public land or on a highway, road or street.
• A person holding a valid permit to hunt from a standing vehicle may transport or possess an uncased firearm with a loaded magazine on a personal assistive mobility device if the action is open.

How should I transport my firearm while in or on a boat?
These rules apply when the vessel is under power and until forward motion has ceased. Once the vessel is no longer under power and forward motion has ceased, firearms can be loaded. When carried in or on a motor-propelled boat or sailboat, while the vessel is under power or forward motion is occurring: rifles, shotguns, muzzleloaders and all other firearms must be unloaded in both barrel and magazine.

Are there additional restrictions for transporting a handgun?
Yes. You can transport your registered handguns while en route to and from hunting or target shooting area. However, handguns, including BB guns larger than .177-caliber and all pellet guns, must be unloaded in the barrel and magazines stored as defined in the storage of firearms and cannot be readily accessible to any occupant of the vehicle. These rules do not apply to a pistol carried under authority of a concealed pistol license or properly carried under authority of a specific exception from the requirement of a concealed pistol license.

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Trap regulations

How often must I check my traps?
You are legally required to check live-restraining cage traps daily in all zones. In Zone 1, all other traps set in a manner to hold game animals alive must be checked at least once within each 48-hour period. It is highly recommended that trappers in Zone 1 check traps daily. In Zone 2 and Zone 3, traps set in a manner to hold game animals alive must be checked at least once each day. Using electronic trap monitors does not satisfy trap checking requirements. You are required to release or remove the game animal from the trap upon checking it.

Do I need to have my name on my traps?
Yes. In legible English, you must permanently affix your name and address or Michigan driver’s license number or DNR Sportcard number to any trap while using, possessing or transporting the trap in an area frequented by wild animals. If one or more beaver snares are attached to a pole, both the snare(s) and the uppermost end of the pole need a metal tag with the user’s information.

Can I use a firearm to dispatch an animal in a trap?
Yes. If you are a licensed fur harvester using a .22-caliber or smaller rimfire firearm, you can dispatch a badger, bobcat, coyote, fox or raccoon in your trap. From Nov. 15-30, .22-caliber or smaller rimfire firearms must be loaded at the point of kill only.

Which types of traps can I use?
Foothold, body-gripping or conibear, and live-restraining cage traps and snares/ cable restraints can be used as outlined in this regulations summary for the species specified. Traps with teeth or serrations are illegal.

Legal traps by species

Species	Foothold traps	Body-gripping and conibear traps	Live-restraining cage traps	Multi-catch and colony traps	Snares	Nonlethal cable restraints
Badger	Yes	Yes	Yes	No	No	No
Beaver	Yes	Yes	Yes	No	Yes	No
Bobcat	Yes	Yes*	Yes	No	No	No
Coyote	Yes	Yes	Yes	No	No	Yes
Fisher	Yes	Yes	Yes	No	No	No
Fox	Yes	Yes	Yes	No	No	Yes
Marten	Yes	Yes	Yes	No	No	No
Mink	Yes	Yes	Yes	No	No	No
Muskrat	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	No	No
Opossum	Yes	Yes	Yes	No	No	No
Otter	Yes	Yes	Yes	No	No	No
Raccoon	Yes	Yes	Yes	No	No	No
Skunk	Yes	Yes	Yes	No	No	No
Weasel	Yes	Yes	Yes	No	No	No

*Body-gripping and conibear traps can be used to trap bobcats in the Upper Peninsula only.

Are there restrictions to the types of traps I can use for bobcat?
Yes. In addition to the trapping restrictions outlined in the trapping equipment regulations section, bobcat units C, D, G and H are limited to foothold traps or live-restraining cage traps only.

Are there size restrictions for foothold traps used for mink or muskrat?
Yes. Foothold traps used for trapping mink or muskrat cannot exceed a jaw spread of a number 2 foothold trap.

Can I use a colony trap?
Multiple-catch or colony traps can be used for taking muskrats only. Colony traps must be completely submerged. Colony traps must be constructed of steel and be no larger than 8 inches high, 8 inches wide and 36 inches deep.

Can I use a live trap?
Yes. You can use live-restraining cage traps capable of taking only one animal at a time. Live-restraining cage traps must be checked daily statewide. Any animal captured in a live trap must be immediately killed or released.

Are there any restrictions on setting traps near the water?
Yes. Prior to Oct. 25 in Zone 1, Nov. 1 in Zone 2 and Nov. 10 in Zone 3, a trap can only be set within 50 feet of water if the trap meets one of the following requirements:

• The trap is a duffer-type, egg-type or similarly designed foothold trap set for raccoons.
• The trap is a body-gripping or conibear trap set 4 feet or more above the ground.

Can I use a body-gripping trap in water?
Yes. You can use a body-gripping trap in water. For a trap greater than 5.5 inches between the jaw hinges, the trap must be at least half submerged to qualify as being in the water.

Can I use a body-gripping trap on land?
Yes. You can use a body-gripping trap on dry land. Body-gripping traps on dry land must meet the requirements outlined below.

Are there size or set restrictions for body-gripping traps used on land or on ice?
Yes. The following regulations were developed to help improve the selectivity of dry-land, body-gripping traps in an effort to reduce the take of nontarget animals. Find information on safely removing animals from traps at Michigan.gov/Trapping under Additional resources.

• Dry-land and surface-ice body-gripping traps on private lands.
  • A body-gripping or conibear-type trap larger than 7.5 inches in width (as measured inside the jaw hinges) cannot be set on dry land that is privately owned or over frozen submerged privately owned bottomlands unless the trap is 4 or more feet above dry ground or the frozen surface of ice.
• Dry-land and surface-ice body-gripping traps on public lands.
  • A body-gripping trap less than 5.5 inches in width (as measured inside the jaw hinges) can be set on dry land or ice that is publicly owned without restrictions if used according to other regulations. All legal bodygripping traps of any size may be used if they are 4 or more feet off the ground without set restriction.
  • A body-gripping trap set without the use of bait, lure or other attractant on dry land or on ice that is publicly owned must be no greater than 6.5 inches in width (as measured inside the jaw hinges; 160s) and can only be set so that no part of the body-gripping surface is more than 8 inches above the ground.
    
  • A body-gripping trap 5.5 inches to 7.5 inches in width (as measured inside the jaw hinges; 160s and 220s) set with the use of bait, lure or other attractant on dry land or ice that is publicly owned can only be used in the following manner:
    • In a container that has an opening height 6 inches or less, an 8-inch minimum spring trap placement slot and a trap trigger recessed a minimum of 6 inches.
      
    • In a container that has only one entrance facing the ground, set so the entrance is no more than 6 inches from the ground and a trap trigger recessed a minimum of 4 inches.

    

Can I use snares?
Snares can be used for taking beaver in water or under ice, statewide. Snares must be made of 1/16-inch or larger cable. Snares not under ice must have a loop that is at least half submerged and must be set in a fashion to hold the beaver completely submerged. Snares should be removed and made inoperative within 24 hours after the close of the beaver season.

Can I use nonlethal cable restraints?
Nonlethal cable restraints can be used from Jan. 1 – March 1 to take coyote and fox only, provided:

• Cable restraints are not placed on publicly owned lands or Commercial Forest lands.
• All cable restraints in possession or carried afield have a metallic identification tag affixed with the owner or user’s name and address or Michigan driver’s license number or DNR Sportcard number.
• Cable restraints are made of steel cable 1/16 inch or larger.
• The cable restraint loop does not exceed 15 inches in diameter.
• The top of the loop is not placed more than 24 inches above the ground. In snow, 24 inches is measured from the compacted snow in a trapper’s footprint established by the full body weight of the trapper.
• Cable restraints are equipped with a relaxing lock. A relaxing lock is defined as a lock that allows the loop to loosen slightly to reduce the possibility of strangulation. Cable restraints also must be equipped with a stop to prevent the loop from closing to a diameter less than 4.25 inches.
• Cable restraints are equipped with a breakaway locking system with a breaking point not greater than 285 pounds. The breakaway device must be attached to the relaxing lock.
• Cable restraints are affixed to a stake or object sufficient to hold a fox or coyote. It is unlawful to use any type of drag.
• Cable restraints are equipped with two swivels, including one swivel at the anchor point.
• Spring poles, counterbalanced weights, springs or other similar devices are not used to close the cable restraint.
• Cable restraints are 60 inches or less in length, not including a cable anchor extension. A cable anchor extension can be up to 36 inches in length.
• Cable restraints are not attached to a fence or set in a manner that would allow an animal to become entangled in a fence.
• Cable restraints anchored to woody vegetation must be free of branches and stubs to a height of 5 feet above the ground or compacted snow on the stem. Branches and stubs must be cut flush with the outer bark of the stem.
• Cable restraints are not set so that a restrained animal is suspended with two or more feet off the ground.

Can I hire a hunting guide for furbearer hunting?
Yes. You can hire a commercial hunting guide for furbearer hunting in Michigan. A list of licensed commercial hunting guides is available at Michigan.gov/WildlifePermits.

Can I hunt from a vehicle?
No. You cannot hunt or pursue wild animals from a car, snowmobile, aircraft, drone, motorboat, personal watercraft, off-road vehicle or other motorized vehicle or a sailboat. Special permits may apply; see Michigan.gov/DNRAccessibility for more information for hunters with disabilities.

Can I set fires to drive out furbearers?
No. You cannot set fires to drive out game animals, including furbearers.

Can I hunt furbearers while under the influence of alcohol or controlled substances?
No. You cannot hunt furbearers while under the influence of alcohol or controlled substances.

Can I use ferrets, fitchews or weasels to hunt furbearers?
No. You cannot use ferrets, fitchews or weasels to take game animals, including furbearers.

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Animal structures and beaver dams

Can I set a trap inside an animal burrow or structure?
No. You cannot molest or set a trap in the internal compartment of any structure such as a lodge, hut, push-up, house, hole, nest, burrow or den of a badger, beaver, mink, muskrat or raccoon, whether occupied or not. However, you can set a trap in the internal compartment of a structure such as a burrow or den of a bobcat, coyote, fisher, fox, marten, opossum, otter, skunk or weasel.

Can I destroy a beaver dam?
No. You cannot molest or destroy a beaver dam, except under a DNR wildlife damage and nuisance animal control permit.

Can I set a trap on a beaver dam?
Yes. You can set traps on a beaver dam or lodge if the trap meets one of the following requirements:

• The trap is completely submerged below the water.
• The trap is a duffer-type, egg-type or similarly designed foothold trap that, by construction, will selectively capture raccoon.
• The trap is a body-gripping trap 5 inches or less in width as measured inside the jaw hinges.
• The trap is a body-gripping trap that is less than 8 inches above the ground at the highest point, set in a way that does not use bait, lure or attractant to entice an animal and is between 5 and 6.5 inches as measured inside the jaw hinges.

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Decoys and calls

Can I use a game call or decoys for hunting furbearers?
Yes. You can use mechanical or electronic decoys to hunt bobcat, coyote, fox, opossum and raccoon. You can use electronic calls, mouth calls, predator calls or other types of game calls when hunting bobcat, coyote, fox, opossum and raccoon.

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Baiting

Can I use game animals as bait when hunting and trapping furbearers?
Yes. You can use the parts of game animals as bait if the game animal used as bait was lawfully trapped or hunted during the open season for that game animal. Some game animals killed as the result of a motor vehicle collision may be used as bait. Visit Michigan.gov/RoadKillPermit for roadkill salvage permit information.

Can I use foothold traps near exposed bait?
No. You cannot use foothold traps to trap furbearers within 20 feet of bait that is visible from more than 4 feet above the bait. Completely submerged foothold traps are exempt from this regulation.

• For the purposes of this regulation, bait is defined as any animal or animal parts, including dead fish.
• Dried hide, fur, feathers or bones that are less than 36 square inches in size and entirely free of meat can be used as a visual attractant above foothold traps.

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Dog training

When can I train my dogs on furbearers?
You can train your dogs on game animals that can be lawfully taken with dogs from July 8 through April 15 of the following year. The following exceptions apply: Michigan residents can train dogs on fox on state lands in Zone 3 under special permit. For additional information on dog permits, visit Michigan.gov/WildlifePermits.

How can I prevent the spread of invasive species when training my dogs on furbearers?
Before leaving the training location, remove plant debris, dirt and mud from your dogs to protect their health and habitat quality.

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Hunting with dogs

Can I hunt furbearers with dogs?
Yes. You can hunt bobcat, coyote, fox, opossum and raccoon with dogs during their respective open seasons. It is unlawful to hunt with the aid of dogs from April 16 through July 7. Owners of a dog chasing or locating bobcat who are present during a hunt must have the valid hunting licenses for harvesting bobcat.

Can I retrieve my hunting dog if it runs on to private property?
Yes. Unless previously prohibited by the landowner, you can enter on foot the property of another person for the sole purpose of retrieving a hunting dog. You cannot be in possession of a firearm when retrieving a dog from private property. You should not remain on the property beyond the reasonable time necessary to retrieve the dog.

How can I prevent the spread of invasive species when hunting furbearers with dogs?
Before leaving the hunting location, remove plant debris, dirt and mud from your dogs to protect their health and habitat quality.

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Wolf-dog conflicts

I hunt in the Upper Peninsula. Should I be concerned that my hunting dogs might be attacked by wolves?
Yes. Wolves will defend their territories and may attack other wolves, coyotes and domestic dogs that are in their territory. Wolf attacks on domestic dogs are relatively rare. Most wolf-dog conflicts occur where dogs are trained or used for bear hunting. These dogs are more at risk because they traverse large areas, which increases their chances of encountering wolves; may be released at bear bait sites that also may be used by wolves; bark while tracking, which may be viewed as a territorial challenge by wolves; and are some distance from hunters and therefore not protected by the presence of humans.

How can I avoid potential problems with wolves and my dogs?
To minimize the conflict between wolves and dogs, it is best to avoid areas of recent wolf activity. Wolves will concentrate much of their activity around the den and rendezvous sites. Rendezvous sites, where pups are raised, usually include forest openings or edge areas and often are near water. These sites may vary from year to year and can change throughout the summer. They can be identified by a concentration of wolf tracks, droppings and matted vegetation. It is best to do some scouting and look for wolf sign before releasing dogs. Be especially vigilant when starting dogs from a bait site, and make sure wolves have not been using the bait. If wolf sign, particularly the sign of wolf pups, is evident, move to another area before releasing dogs. Become familiar with coyote and dog tracks, so they can be correctly distinguished from wolf tracks. Consider adding bells or beepers to dog collars, which may reduce wolf attacks.

What should I do if I suspect my dog has had a conflict with a wolf?
Report all suspected wolf-dog conflicts to the DNR immediately to allow a timely investigation. To report a dog depredation, call the Report All Poaching hotline at 800-292-7800. Your reports help other hunters by allowing the DNR to provide updated dog depredation locations. At this time, the use of lethal control of wolves in the act of depredation is not authorized. Because the federal status of wolves has changed, and may continue to change, please contact a DNR office to ask about current rules regarding lethal take of wolves if in the act of killing or wounding a dog.

Where can I find more information on hunting dog conflicts with wolves?
For more information, including locations where hunting dog conflicts with wolves have occurred, visit Michigan.gov/Wolves or contact the DNR Marquette Customer Service Center at 906-228-6561.

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INCIDENTAL CATCH

What do I do with an incidental catch or nontarget species in my trap?
Trappers occasionally trap nontarget species. It is unlawful to possess game animals out of season or game animals over the bag limit, or to trap nongame protected species. The following procedure is required for nongame protected species and those furbearers with a bag limit (badger, bobcat, fisher, marten, otter) if over the bag limit or outside of the season. Trappers must:

• Immediately release live protected animals from the trap.
• If the animal is dead or dies in the attempt to release it, attach a Michigan incidental seal to the animal before removing it from the trap. Then transport the carcass in an open manner to the nearest DNR office. The carcass must be surrendered.

How can I avoid otters while trapping for beavers?

• Avoid trapping areas with a lot of otter sign.
• Avoid trapping streams, ditches or narrow connecting bodies of water between ponds, wetlands, lakes, etc. These are frequently used by otters for travel.
• Avoid sets near abandoned beaver lodges and bank dens.
• Avoid setting traps on crossovers, especially those near culverts, berms, dikes and narrow portions of streams. Crossovers near the inflow or dam of beaver ponds also should be avoided.
• When using body-gripping traps, moving triggers to the side of the trap may reduce the chance an otter will trigger the trap while beavers will still trigger the trap (see sketch).

• Use a dive stick above the body-gripping trap. Place the body-gripping trap on the bottom, below the dive stick. Beavers tend to dive to the bottom when going under dive sticks, while otters remain close to the surface (see sketch).

• Make trap sets outside of high animal movement areas in combination with castor sets or baited sets (such as aspen branches) to allow for good opportunities to catch beaver but reduce the chances of otter catch.
• Gang-set active areas to catch the beaver as fast as possible and leave. Setting fewer traps and scattering large numbers of traps at every possible beaver travel way or trying to catch that “last beaver” will substantially increase the likelihood of catching an incidental otter.

Are there any incidentally taken furbearer species I can lawfully possess?
Yes. The following furbearer species can be lawfully possessed if you are a licensed fur harvester:

• Otters incidentally taken while trapping for beaver in April can be lawfully possessed if included within your otter bag limit and a valid otter kill tag is used. An incidental seal is not required if tagged with a valid otter kill tag in April. All rules and regulations for taking otters apply. See below for registration deadlines.
• Otters incidentally taken above an individual’s bag limit cannot be kept and must be submitted to the DNR following existing incidental catch regulations.
• You can keep up to 10 muskrats incidentally taken in beaver or otter sets.
• You can keep mink incidentally taken in a muskrat colony trap.

How do I release a dog caught in a trap?
Dogs and other domestic animals caught in cable restraints, body-gripping or conibear-type traps should be reported to the DNR Report All Poaching hotline at 800-292-7800. Find information on safely removing dogs and other animals from traps at Michigan.gov/Trapping under Additional resources.

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WILDLIFE DISEASES

What if I see a sick-looking animal while scouting, hunting or trapping?
The DNR encourages you to report any sightings of sick or dead wildlife, including furbearers, at Michigan.gov/EyesInTheField. You should provide information about the location, number and condition of the animals you observed. Contact the DNR Wildlife Health Section at 517-336-5030 if you have any questions.

What is canine distemper?
Canine distemper is a highly contagious disease of carnivores. The virus is widespread. Impacted species include badger, coyote, domestic dog, fisher, fox, marten, mink, otter, raccoon, skunk and wolf. The canine distemper virus is very resistant to cold. In wild animals, the majority of cases are seen in the spring and summer, but cases are observed year-round. Die-offs of raccoons due to canine distemper occur yearly. The impact of this disease on other wildlife populations is not known at this time. Typical signs of canine distemper in wild carnivores may include lack of fear, nasal and eye discharge, disorientation, convulsive movements of the head and paws, and aimless wandering. Affected animals should be handled with caution until a diagnosis is confirmed.

What is rabies?
Rabies is a disease of the central nervous system caused by a virus. The virus is usually transmitted in the saliva from animal to animal and from animal to human by a bite. All mammals are susceptible. It is important to understand that there are no typical or characteristic signs for this disease, and many signs associated with rabies overlap with symptoms of other wildlife diseases. However, some behaviors to watch for include aggressive biting, paralysis, restlessness, tremors and convulsions. Once signs of illness appear, rabies is 100% fatal; however, proper postexposure treatment is nearly 100% effective. Contact your local state health department regarding any sample submissions.

What is sarcoptic mange?
Sarcoptic mange is caused by a mite, which lives and burrows into the layers of the skin. The mites cause an irritation, resulting in the animal scratching and biting the affected area and spreading the mite on its body. Commonly impacted species include coyote, red fox and wolf. Occasionally impacted species include black bear and raccoon. Hair loss, thickening and wrinkling of the skin, and scab and crust formation on the skin are the result of the infestation. Feeding behavior may be altered due to the intense irritation, resulting in malnutrition. In severe cases, the animals can die due to exposure from losing the insulating layer that the hair provides. In most cases, mange will resolve itself. Mange-infested animals should only be handled while wearing gloves. Freezing the carcass will kill the mites for safer handling. The mite can live on humans for a period of time, causing severe irritation at the exposure site. Consult your physician or veterinarian, respectively, if you or your pet may have been in contact with an infected animal.

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INVASIVE SPECIES

What if I see an invasive species while scouting, hunting or trapping?
The DNR encourages you to learn how to identify and report invasive species at MISIN.MSU.edu. For more information on invasive species management or your local Cooperative Invasive Species Management Area, visit Michigan.gov/Invasives.

How can I help stop the spread of invasive species?
Prevention is the best way to manage invasive species! Practice PlayCleanGo by checking yourself and your gear. Arrive clean and remove any plant debris, dirt and mud before leaving your hunting or trapping location.

What should I do if I see a nutria?
Although nutria have not yet been discovered in Michigan, they could cause damage to wetlands if they become established. You are encouraged to report nutria that you have seen or trapped to the Midwest Invasive Species Information Network at MISIN.MSU.edu/Report.

Can I harvest Russian boar?
Yes. Russian boar can be hunted and trapped year-round, statewide with a valid base license. Russian boar can be taken on public land by anyone possessing a valid hunting license or a concealed pistol license, or on private land with the landowner’s permission. You are encouraged to report all Russian boar seen or taken at Michigan.gov/FeralSwine or by calling 517-336-1928.

Can I possess invasive plants in Michigan?
No. You cannot move or possess invasive plants. For a complete list of prohibited and restricted species, visit Michigan.gov/Invasives.

How can I help stop the spread of aquatic invasive species?
To help prevent the spread of invasive species and protect habitat, hunters and fur harvesters should take the following precautions:

• Do not use phragmites (common reed) as part of a blind or trap set.
• Use anchor designs that prevent aquatic plants from becoming attached.
• Inspect all gear and equipment before and after use, including anchors, decoys, traps and lines, blinds, waders and clothing. Remove any plant debris, animals, dirt and mud.

Am I required to remove aquatic plants from my equipment?
Yes. Michigan law requires that you remove all aquatic plants from watercraft, watercraft equipment and trailers before placing these into Michigan waters. Prior to transporting any watercraft over land, boaters are required to do all of the following:

• Remove all drain plugs from bilges, ballast tanks and live wells.
• Drain all water from any live wells and bilges.
• Ensure that the watercraft, trailer and any conveyance used to transport the watercraft or trailer are free of aquatic organisms, including plants.

Violation of this law is a state civil infraction and violators may be subject to fines up to $100. For more information on this law, see Michigan’s Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act (Act 451 of 1994) Part 413.

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AFTER THE HARVEST

Validating harvest

Can I tag my bobcat, fisher, marten or otter after I take some photos with it first?
No. Immediately after harvesting and before moving a bobcat, fisher, marten or otter, you must validate your kill tag and securely attach the kill tag to the hide from the upper jaw through the eye socket or through the lower jaw.

How do I validate my kill tag?
To validate your kill tag, you must notch out the appropriate information as instructed on the kill tag.

How should I tag my harvested bobcat, fisher, marten or otter?
You must securely and permanently attach the entire kill tag to the hide from the upper jaw through the eye socket or through the lower jaw of the furbearer. The best way to attach a kill tag is to lay a strong piece of wire or cord across the back of it (after removing backing), so the tag can be folded in half, and to tape it in place as needed. Tie the wire or cord to the furbearer in such a manner that the kill tag remains securely attached. Do not stick or wrap the kill tag directly onto the furbearer. Make sure the kill tag is completely legible and visible for inspection. The kill tag must remain attached until the furbearer is sealed at a DNR registration station. The kill tag will be replaced by an official DNR seal at registration.

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Transporting game animals

What are the rules for transporting game animals?
You can transport your own and another person’s lawfully taken game. You cannot destroy the identity or evidence of the sex of any furbearer while in the field or when transported in a motor vehicle.

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Furbearer registration stations

Which species do I need to bring to a furbearer registration station?
If you harvest a bobcat, fisher, marten or otter, you must present the animal at a DNR registration station for registration.

Can I take my furbearer to a taxidermist before registration to have it skinned?
Yes. If you intend to have a taxidermist skin your animal, you can take it to the taxidermist prior to registration if the furbearer has a completed and legal kill tag attached and it is within the registration period. Taxidermists cannot register furbearers. After the furbearer has been skinned, you must bring the skull, pelt and kill tag to a DNR registration station for registration. After registration, the sealed pelt can be returned to the taxidermist if additional work will be done on the pelt. An unsealed animal/pelt cannot be at a taxidermist after the registration deadline for that species/season.

How do I register my furbearer?
Within the deadlines described in the table below, you must take the furbearer skull and pelt to a DNR registration station to be examined, sealed and registered. Animals should be skinned prior to registration. A list of furbearer registration locations and hours is available at Michigan.gov/Trapping. You are encouraged to call the DNR office or DNR registration station to schedule an appointment and determine DNR personnel availability before arriving.

What will DNR staff do to register my furbearer?
The DNR will attach an official seal to the pelt of each furbearer. This seal replaces the furbearer kill tag. The location of take (town, range and section), date of harvest and manner of harvest will be recorded when the animal is sealed. The skull will be collected to determine the sex and age of the specimen. Collected skulls will be retained by DNR staff and will not be returned to you. New population estimation techniques require precise sex and age information, which will be obtained from skulls. Mandatory skull collection ensures tooth samples are undamaged for aging and adequate material is available for DNA analysis.

Where can I find the age of my registered furbearer?
The age of your registered bobcat, fisher, marten or otter will be available at Michigan.gov/DNRLab after June 1.

What are the deadlines to register furbearers?
Furbearers must be registered on or before the listed deadline below:

Species	Season	Unit/Zone	Deadline
Bobcat	Trapping	Units A and B	Jan. 28, 2026
Bobcat	Trapping	Units C, D and G	Jan. 8, 2026
Bobcat	Trapping	Unit H	Dec. 30, 2025
Bobcat	Hunting	Units A, B and C	Mar. 11, 2026
Bobcat	Hunting	Unit D	Feb. 11, 2026
Bobcat	Hunting	Unit G	Jan. 30, 2026
Bobcat	Hunting	Unit H	Jan. 21, 2026
Fisher	Trapping	Zone 1*	Dec. 17, 2025
Marten	Trapping	Zone 1*	Dec. 17, 2025
Otter	Trapping	Units A, B and C	April 10, 2026
Otter	Incidental1	Units A, B and C	May 5, 2026

^*Zone 1, excluding Drummond Island.
¹For otters incidentally taken while trapping for beavers through April 30 and included in the otter season bag limit, the registration deadline is May 5, 2026. Otters incidentally taken above the individual’s bag limit may NOT be kept but should be submitted to the DNR following existing incidental catch regulations.

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After the Harvest

Validating harvest

Can I tag my bobcat, fisher, marten or otter after I take some photos with it first?
No. Immediately after harvesting and before moving a bobcat, fisher, marten or otter, you must validate your kill tag and securely attach the kill tag to the hide from the upper jaw through the eye socket or through the lower jaw.

How do I validate my kill tag?
To validate your kill tag, you must notch out the appropriate information as instructed on the kill tag.

How should I tag my harvested bobcat, fisher, marten or otter?
You must securely and permanently attach the entire kill tag to the hide from the upper jaw through the eye socket or through the lower jaw of the furbearer. The best way to attach a kill tag is to lay a strong piece of wire or cord across the back of it (after removing backing), so the tag can be folded in half, and to tape it in place as needed. Tie the wire or cord to the furbearer in such a manner that the kill tag remains securely attached. Do not stick or wrap the kill tag directly onto the furbearer. Make sure the kill tag is completely legible and visible for inspection. The kill tag must remain attached until the furbearer is sealed at a DNR registration station. The kill tag will be replaced by an official DNR seal at registration.

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Transporting game animals

What are the rules for transporting game animals?
You can transport your own and another person’s lawfully taken game. You cannot destroy the identity or evidence of the sex of any furbearer while in the field or when transported in a motor vehicle.

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Furbearer registration stations

Which species do I need to bring to a furbearer registration station?
If you harvest a bobcat, fisher, marten or otter, you must present the animal at a DNR registration station for registration.

Can I take my furbearer to a taxidermist before registration to have it skinned?
Yes. If you intend to have a taxidermist skin your animal, you can take it to the taxidermist prior to registration if the furbearer has a completed and legal kill tag attached and it is within the registration period. Taxidermists cannot register furbearers. After the furbearer has been skinned, you must bring the skull, pelt and kill tag to a DNR registration station for registration. After registration, the sealed pelt can be returned to the taxidermist if additional work will be done on the pelt. An unsealed animal/pelt cannot be at a taxidermist after the registration deadline for that species/season.

Can someone else take my harvested furbearer to a DNR registration station for me?
No. You must be present while registering the furbearer and should provide identification upon request as the person who harvested the furbearer. It is unlawful to register the take of another person.

Where can I register my furbearer?
A list of furbearer registration locations, hours of operation and contact information can be found at Michigan.gov/Trapping. You are encouraged to call the DNR office or DNR registration station to schedule an appointment before arriving.

After registration, can the seal be removed from my furbearer pelt?
The seal should remain attached to the furbearer until the carcass is accepted for processing and recorded by a licensed taxidermist. Otherwise, the seal should not be removed until the pelt is processed or tanned, nor should a person possess or transport a raw, unsealed hide after the required registration date for each animal. You may not buy or sell a bobcat, fisher, marten or otter pelt without a DNR seal unless the pelt has been processed or tanned.

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Buying and selling game animals

Can I buy or sell furbearers?
Yes. The carcasses and parts of furbearing animals lawfully taken during their open season, or lawfully imported from another state, territory or country, can be bought or sold, as provided by Wildlife Conservation Order 4.3, available at Michigan.gov/DNRLaws. Additional requirements for fur dealer’s licenses may apply.

Can I ship hides and furs out of state?
All out-of-state shipments of raw hides or furs must be plainly marked on the outside of the package as to their contents. To export bobcat, otter or wolf hides from the U.S., you need federal approval. For details, contact the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service at 800-358-2104 or ManagementAuthority@FWS.gov.

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Report All Poaching

Can I possess a live wild animal?
No. It is unlawful to possess live game or protected animals taken from the wild except under a permit issued by the DNR. Visit Michigan.gov/WildlifePermits for more information.

What is the Interstate Wildlife Violator Compact?
Michigan is a member of the Interstate Wildlife Violator Compact, an agreement where participating states share information about fish and game violators and honor each other’s decision to deny licenses and permits. If your hunting, fishing or trapping license is revoked in Michigan, you may lose your privileges in the other 45 participating states as well. And, if your license is revoked in any of those states, it also may be revoked in Michigan.

What are the penalties for furbearer harvest violations?
The fine for an illegally harvested furbearer is up to $500 per animal, with jail time between five and 90 days. Revocation of licenses will be for the current year plus three years. The first offense includes an additional two years of license revocation. The second offense includes an additional seven years of license revocation.

How do I report suspected poaching?
If you witness a natural resource violation or have information on the illegal killing of furbearers in Michigan, report it immediately. You can do this by texting or calling 800-292-7800. Phone lines are open 24/7. You may remain anonymous.

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Report All Poaching

Can I possess a live wild animal?
No. It is unlawful to possess live game or protected animals taken from the wild except under a permit issued by the DNR. Visit Michigan.gov/WildlifePermits for more information.

What is the Interstate Wildlife Violator Compact?
Michigan is a member of the Interstate Wildlife Violator Compact, an agreement where participating states share information about fish and game violators and honor each other’s decision to deny licenses and permits. If your hunting, fishing or trapping license is revoked in Michigan, you may lose your privileges in the other 45 participating states as well. And, if your license is revoked in any of those states, it also may be revoked in Michigan.

What are the penalties for furbearer harvest violations?
The fine for an illegally harvested furbearer is up to $500 per animal, with jail time between five and 90 days. Revocation of licenses will be for the current year plus three years. The first offense includes an additional two years of license revocation. The second offense includes an additional seven years of license revocation.

How do I report suspected poaching?
If you witness a natural resource violation or have information on the illegal killing of furbearers in Michigan, report it immediately. You can do this by texting or calling 800-292-7800. Phone lines are open 24/7. You may remain anonymous.

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Glossary

Accompany — to go along with another individual under circumstances that allow one to come to the immediate aid of the other individual while staying within a distance from the other individual that permits uninterrupted, unaided visual and auditory communication.

Apprentice hunter — a person 10 years old or older without a hunter education certificate who is licensed under the apprentice program.

Bag limit — the number of animals that may be taken and possessed as determined by the DNR.

Bow — a device for propelling an arrow from a string drawn, held and released by hand if the force used to hold the string in the drawn position is provided by the archer’s muscles.

Buy/sell — an exchange or attempt or offer to exchange for money, barter or anything of value.

Centerfire firearm — a firearm that uses ammunition in which the primer is located in the center of the casing base.

Chase — to follow animals with dogs or other wild or domestic animals trained for that purpose.

Crossbow — a weapon consisting of a bow, with a draw weight of 100 pounds or more, mounted transversely on a stock or frame and designed to fire an arrow, bolt or quarrel by the release of a bow string controlled by a mechanical or electric trigger with a working safety.

Damage (caused by furbearers) — physical harm to forest products, roads, dams, buildings, orchards, apiaries, livestock and horticultural or agricultural crops. Beaver or muskrat are only considered to be doing damage if their activities result in flooding or culvert blockages that cause damage.

Developmental disability — a severe, chronic condition as defined in section 100a of the mental health code, 16 1974 PA 258, MCL 330.1100a.

Dog training — to chase or locate a game animal with a dog outside the open season for that game animal.

Elevated platform — any horizontal surface, constructed or manufactured by a person, that increases the field of vision of a person using it beyond the field of vision that normally would be attained by that person standing on the ground. Elevated platforms include scaffolds, raised platforms, ladders, steps and any other device that is used to assist in climbing a tree.

Firearm — any weapon which will, is designed to or may readily be converted to expel a projectile by action of an explosive.

Furbearer — badger, beaver, bobcat, coyote, fisher, fox (gray and red), marten, mink, muskrat, opossum, otter, raccoon, skunk and weasel (least, short-tailed/ermine and long-tailed).

Fur harvester — an individual pursuing furbearer species through hunting or trapping methods.

Fur harvesting — the act of pursuing or taking furbearer species through hunting or trapping methods.

Game animal — any species of wildlife designated by the Legislature or the Natural Resources Commission as game under Section 40110 of the Michigan Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act and any of the following animals: badger, bear, beaver, bobcat, brant, coot, coyote, crow, deer, duck, elk, fisher, Florida gallinule, fox, goose, hare, Hungarian partridge, marten, mink, muskrat, opossum, otter, pheasant, quail, rabbit, raccoon, ruffed grouse, sharptailed grouse, skunk, snipe, sora rail, squirrel, Virginia rail, weasel, wild turkey, woodchuck and woodcock.

Game call — a device used to mimic animal sounds for the purpose of attracting game animals, including electronic calls and mouth calls.

Ground blind — a structure, enclosure or any material, natural or manufactured, placed on the ground to assist in concealing or disguising a person for the purpose of harvesting an animal.

Hunt or hunting — to pursue, capture, shoot, kill, chase, follow, harass, harm, rob or trap a wild animal, or to attempt to engage in such an activity.

Hunter education/safety — a certification course used to train hunters on understanding wildlife management, wildlife identification, ethics, laws and regulations, and firearms safety and handling.

Hunter orange — the highly visible color commonly referred to as hunter orange that includes blaze orange, flame orange and fluorescent blaze orange.

Identification — a driver license issued by Michigan, another state or a Canadian province as accepted by the DNR, a State of Michigan identification card issued by the Secretary of State or a Sportcard issued by the DNR.

Invasive species — a species that is not native and whose introduction causes harm or is likely to cause harm to Michigan’s economy, environment or human health.

Kill tag — a license that is affixed to a harvested bear, bobcat, deer, elk, fisher, marten, otter or turkey.

License — a document or a tag, stamp, plastic card or other device that may include a stamp or a tag that authorizes the licensee to hunt, fish, trap or possess wild animals or aquatic species and other identification required by the DNR.

Mechanical decoy — any device that by design or construction uses motion as a visual stimulus to attract an animal. A windsock or similar decoy body anchored at a fixed point into the ground and whose only motion is derived exclusively by power of the natural wind is not a mechanical decoy.

Mentor — a person at least 21 years old who has a valid license to hunt and previous hunting experience and is participating in the Mentored Hunting Program.

Nonresident — a person who is not a resident of Michigan.

Pneumatic gun — any implement, designed as a gun, that will expel a BB or pellet by spring, gas or air.

Poaching — the illegal shooting, trapping or taking of game, fish or other natural resources from private or public property.

Protected wildlife — bear cubs, bear sows accompanied by cubs, cougars, eagles, flying squirrels, hawks, lynx, moose, nongame birds (except starlings, house sparrows and feral pigeons), owls, spruce grouse and wolverines. Protected wildlife cannot be taken at any time.

Residence — a permanent building serving as a temporary or permanent home. Residence may include a cottage, cabin or mobile home, but does not include a structure designed primarily for taking game, a tree blind, a tent, a recreational or other vehicle, or a camper.

Resident — a person who resides in a settled or permanent home or domicile within the boundaries of this state with the intention of remaining in this state; a student who is enrolled in a full-time course at a college or university within this state and who resides in the state during the school year; a person regularly enlisted or commissioned as an officer in the armed forces of the United States and officially stationed in this state; or a person regularly enlisted or commissioned as an officer in the armed forces of the United States who, at the time of enlistment, was a resident of this state and has maintained his or her residence in this state for purposes of obtaining a driver license or voter registration, or both.

Rimfire firearm — a firearm that uses ammunition that has the primer contained in the rim of the ammunition casing.

Safety zone — all areas within 150 yards (450 feet) of an occupied building, dwelling, house, residence, cabin or any barn or other building used in a farm operation.

Season dates — the legal dates that may be hunted or trapped.

Shotgun — a firearm designed to be fired from the shoulder that uses the energy of the explosive in a fixed shotgun shell to fire through a smooth bore either a number of ball shot or a single projectile for each single function of the trigger.

Take — to hunt with any weapon, dog, raptor or other wild or domestic animal trained for that purpose; kill; chase; follow; harass; harm; pursue; shoot; rob; trap; capture or collect animals, or to attempt to engage in such an activity.

Transport — to carry or ship animals within this state or to points outside this state.

Trapping — taking or attempting to take animals by means of a trap or other device designed to kill or capture animals.

Uncocked bow — a bow that is not in the drawn position.

Uncocked crossbow — a crossbow that is not in the cocked position.

Unloaded bow — a bow that does not have an arrow nocked.

Unloaded crossbow — a crossbow that does not have a bolt in the flight groove.

Unloaded firearm — a firearm that does not have ammunition in the barrel, chamber, cylinder, clip or magazine when the barrel, chamber, cylinder, clip or magazine is part of or attached to the firearm. Muzzleloading firearms are considered unloaded when the cap is removed or priming powder is removed from the pan, or when the battery is removed on electronic systems. The ball and powder can remain in the barrel.

Wild animal — a mammal, bird, fish, reptile, amphibian or crustacean of a wild nature indigenous to this state or introduced to this state by the DNR or a species determined by the DNR to be of public benefit.