Jan. 3, 2017

Contact: Katie Keen, 989-385-0336 or Al Stewart, 517-284-6221

Thinking spring? Apply for spring turkey hunting, now through Feb. 1

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources reminds hunters that the spring turkey hunting application period opened Sunday, Jan. 1.

“If you are looking to hunt one of the limited-license turkey hunts, make sure to apply,” said DNR upland game bird specialist Al Stewart. “If you’re looking for broader statewide options in your hunt, you may want to wait and purchase Hunt 234.”

The 2017 spring turkey season runs April 17 through May 31, with several different hunt periods to choose from. The Spring Turkey Digest explains regulations, season dates and hunt units.

Hunt 234 licenses go on sale over the counter March 20, with no application required. Hunt 234 offers the most days to hunt, as it is valid May 1-31 and is open statewide except on public land in southern Michigan.

"In Michigan, spring turkey season is a big deal,” said Stewart. “We're ranked seventh in the nation for turkey harvest, harvesting over 30,000 turkeys while providing a variety of quality hunting options.”

Now through Feb. 1, a $5 spring turkey application may be purchased anywhere hunting licenses are sold or online at www.mdnr-elicense.com. Hunters may purchase only one spring turkey hunting license.

For more information about spring turkey hunting, watch this YouTube video or visit www.michigan.gov/turkey.

Beginning March 6, applicants can check whether they were drawn for a license at www.michigan.gov/turkey. Any leftover licenses will be sold until the quota is met in each hunt unit and hunt period.

A base license is required for every resident and nonresident who hunts in Michigan. Hunters may purchase a spring turkey license only after they have obtained a base license for the year. The 2016 base license is available beginning March 1 and is not required to apply. The base license also is a small game license.

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is committed to the conservation, protection, management, use and enjoyment of the state’s natural and cultural resources for current and future generations. For more information, go to www.michigan.gov/dnr.