Today is opening day of Michigan's firearm deer season

Share or view as webpage  |  Update preferences

Two male white-tailed deer are face to face with their antlers locked together in a field of dried grass.

Nov. 15, 2021
Media contact: DNR Wildlife Division, 517-284-9453

Deer hunters head out for firearm season

Today is one of the most eagerly anticipated mornings of the entire calendar year – the opening day of the firearm deer hunting season. This year, more than 550,000 deer hunters will head into the woods and fields of Michigan to try their luck at bringing home tasty venison to feed their families.  

Hunters are an important part of Michigan’s heritage and economy. A recent study released by Michigan United Conservation Clubs estimates that hunting and fishing in Michigan generate $11.2 billion each year, with the state's hunters contributing $8.9 billion – about 80 percent – of those critical dollars.  

We want to remind hunters to be safe in the field and back at deer camp. If you are staying at a camp with folks outside your household and aren’t vaccinated, remember to wear a mask if you are indoors or can’t be 6 feet apart, and sleep in separate rooms, tents or trailers, if possible. Sanitize hands and surfaces regularly, stay well and have fun.

We appreciate Michigan’s deer hunters and wish everyone a safe, enjoyable hunt!

Deer hunting ►

DNR COVID-19 RESPONSE: For details on affected DNR facilities and services, visit this webpage. Follow state actions and guidelines at Michigan.gov/Coronavirus.