What Michigan Bow Hunters Need to Know Before Heading Out

For some people, October means Halloween decorations and scary movies. For my wife, it means buying Christmas decorations, but that’s a story for another time. For Michigan bow hunters, it means finally getting back into the woods.

If you’ve been checking trail cameras and counting down the days, the wait is pretty much over. Michigan’s archery deer season opens Thursday, October 1.

Before you head out, here are a few reminders.

Michigan Archery Deer Season Dates for 2026

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According to the Michigan DNR, the first stretch runs October 1 through November 14. Archery season picks back up December 1 and continues through January 1.

See Also: Michigan’s First Deer Harvest Numbers of 2026 Revealed

Here in the Lower Peninsula, crossbows are allowed throughout both stretches. Make sure you have your base license and the appropriate deer license, and check the restrictions for where you’re hunting.

Michigan Hunters Have a Digital Deer Tag Option

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One thing that looks different this year is tagging. Hunters can choose an electronic eHarvest tag through the Michigan DNR Hunt Fish app. Traditional paper tags are still available, too.

If you’re going digital, get familiar with how it works before you head out. The last thing you want is to start yelling at your phone in the middle of the woods because you can’t figure out how to tag your deer.

Michigan Deer Harvest Reporting Is Still Required

Getting your deer is exciting, but don’t forget this part. You must report your harvest within 72 hours, or before transferring possession of the deer, whichever comes first. Reporting can be done through the DNR website or app.

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Good luck out there. Hopefully, that buck you keep seeing on your trail camera actually shows up while you’re in the stand. You know, instead of five minutes after you leave.