The Department of Natural Resources encourages hunters to participate in the upcoming spring wild turkey season, which runs April 23 through May 31. Michigan’s current turkey population is estimated at over 200,000 birds, and turkey hunters here are fortunate to have one of the longest turkey seasons nationwide. Michigan ranks sixth in the nation for turkey harvest and is rated as having high-quality turkey hunting.
“This spring, there are many hunting options and opportunities for people to choose from, and turkey numbers are generally good across the state,” said Al Stewart, DNR upland game bird specialist.
Michigan residents can purchase a spring turkey license for $15, while seniors can purchase a spring turkey license for $6. To purchase a license, go to www.mdnr-elicense.com or visit any license agent.
Hunt No. 234 is a great choice for hunters who want maximum flexibility. This hunt includes all areas of the state open to spring turkey hunting except the public lands of southern Michigan, and extends from May 7-31. Hunt No. 234 licenses can be purchased through May 1. After May 1, Hunt No. 234 will be available only to those who applied for a hunt in the drawing.
Many limited-quota licenses are also available for many parts of the state, including private-land hunting in Unit ZZ (Hunt No. 301) in southern Michigan. Those hunting private land should receive permission to hunt before purchasing a private-land-only license. For a list of available limited-quota licenses, go to www.michigan.gov/huntdrawings. Licenses will be sold until quotas are met.
A new state law allows youth hunters nine years old and younger to participate in the spring turkey season through the Mentored Youth Hunting Program. The Mentored Youth Hunting license is $7.50 and entitles the youth hunter to hunt turkey during the spring and fall seasons in any open hunt period or location, on either private or public land. In addition, the Mentored Youth Hunting license also provides a tag for small game, deer (two tags, any deer), furbearer and fish (all species) during the appropriate season. Please go to www.michigan.gov/mentoredhunting for mentor requirements and additional information.
Information about turkey hunting can be found at www.michigan.gov/turkey.
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