When is Turkey Hunting Season in Michigan? A Complete Guide

Blue skies, budding greens, and early morning mist can only mean one thing in Michigan: Spring has arrived.

For hunters, the shift in temperature, the vibrant plantlife, and the chorus of birdsong herald a different kind of season, the start of the Michigan turkey season.

That first electrifying gobble of the season is a moment of pure anticipation. With a vast 7.4 million acres of forest open on public hunting land in the Lower and Upper Peninsula, the 2024 season promises unforgettable hunting experiences for Michigan hunters.

Heres everything you need to know about the Michigan turkey season, plus some expert strategies to bag your bird.

Turkey hunting is a popular activity for many outdoor enthusiasts in Michigan. The state provides ample opportunities for hunters who wish to pursue wild turkeys during the spring and fall hunting seasons. In this guide we will cover everything you need to know about turkey hunting seasons regulations, licensing, and more in Michigan.

Overview of Turkey Hunting Seasons in Michigan

Michigan has designated turkey hunting seasons in both the spring and fall The timing and length of the seasons vary depending on the region and turkey management unit Here is a quick overview of the turkey hunting seasons in Michigan

Spring Turkey Season – Starts as early as April 18 and runs through May 31, depending on the region and turkey unit This is the more popular and productive season
Fall Turkey Season – Runs from mid-September through November, depending on the region and turkey unit. Typically a shorter season with fewer hunters participating.
Youth Turkey Hunt Weekend – Special weekend in April dedicated to youth hunters under the age of 17. Held on public and private lands.

So when exactly is turkey hunting in Michigan? The answer depends on whether you plan to hunt in spring or fall, and which turkey management unit you will be hunting in. Read on for more details.

Spring Turkey Hunting Season Dates in Michigan

The spring turkey season is the most popular hunt in Michigan, with the vast majority of turkey hunters taking part during this time. The spring season begins as early as April 18 and runs through May 31, depending on the region and turkey unit you are hunting in.

There are a total of 19 turkey management units in Michigan, and the starting date for the spring season varies by region:

Southern Michigan – Starts April 18
Northern Lower Peninsula – Starts April 25
Upper Peninsula – Starts May 1

Within each region, season end dates range from May 1 through May 31 depending on the individual turkey unit. Be sure to consult the DNR’s turkey hunting digest for exact season dates in the unit you plan to hunt.

The spring turkey season is open statewide for youth hunters during the Youth Turkey Hunt Weekend, held on the Saturday and Sunday prior to the regular opening day in each region. In 2023, the youth hunt weekend will take place on April 15-16.

Fall Turkey Hunting Season Dates in Michigan

Michigan also provides opportunities for hunters to pursue wild turkeys in the fall season, though the fall hunt is much less popular than spring. The fall turkey season runs from mid-September through November, with specific dates varying by region.

Here are the opening dates for the fall turkey season in Michigan:

Southern Michigan – Opens Sept. 15
Northern Lower Peninsula – Opens Sept. 25
Upper Peninsula – Opens Oct. 1

As with spring, season end dates in the fall range from October 31 to November 14 depending on the turkey unit. Consult the DNR’s turkey hunting digest for complete fall season details in your hunt area.

The fall turkey season provides hunters with beautiful weather and excellent camouflage conditions for pursuing gobblers. Those willing to put in the effort can experience great success, often with minimal hunting pressure.

Turkey Hunting License, Permits, and Tags in Michigan

To legally hunt turkeys in Michigan, you will need a turkey hunting license or license combo along with any applicable permits and tags. Here are the basics:

Base License – All turkey hunters need a small game license or appropriate license combo. Youth hunters need a mentored youth license.
Turkey Permit – Required for spring turkey hunting. Available over the counter or through a limited drawing.
Tag – Printable e-tag required for each turkey you harvest in spring or fall. Comes with your license purchase.

Be sure to review the DNR’s turkey hunting licensing rules to understand exactly which licenses and permits you will need. You can purchase everything online or from any license agent.

Top Turkey Hunting Tips for Michigan Hunters

With an overview of the turkey hunting seasons and regulations covered, here are some useful turkey hunting tips to help you find success in Michigan:

Scout early – Locate flocks and identify areas of high use before the season starts. Look for tracks, scratchings, and droppings.
Use turkey calls – Master various hen calls and calls for young turkeys. Calling is critical for spring hunting.
Conceal yourself – Use full camo, face masks, and gloves. Sit motionless against a tree or blind.
Be patient – Resist the urge to move or call too frequently. Allow the turkeys to come to you.
Target open areas – Fields, clearcuts, and forest openings provide good shooting opportunities.

Follow these tips and with some preparation you will be ready for an exciting turkey hunt in Michigan this spring or fall!

Youth Turkey Hunting Opportunities in Michigan

Michigan offers special youth turkey hunting opportunities to get kids involved in the hunt. On the Youth Turkey Hunt Weekend in mid-April, hunters under 17 years old may take turkeys statewide on public and private lands.

Mentored youth licenses allow hunters 9 and older to pursue turkeys during the regular spring season when accompanied by a mentor. And youth 16 and under can participate in the fall season with a license but no turkey permit required.

Introduce a young hunter to the thrill and challenge of turkey hunting in Michigan this spring!

Michigan provides turkey hunting opportunities in the spring from mid-April through May and in the fall from September through November. Exact season dates vary by region and turkey management unit. A small game license, turkey permit, and e-tags are required for the spring hunt, while only a license and e-tags are needed for the fall. Scouting, calling skills, concealment, and patience are vital for success. There are also special spring hunts and relaxed fall rules for youth hunters. Plan your next turkey hunting adventure in Michigan well and enjoy a rewarding time in the field pursuing these challenging game birds.

when is turkey hunting in michigan

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Use a Blind

Choose a blind that offers concealment while providing a clear view with only a minimal opening, as the Eastern turkeys are attuned to noticing even the slightest shifts in movement.

Considering the natural environment earlier in the season, you may find natural landscape coloration more brownish at the end of winter, whereas as the temperature rises, you may need to incorporate more greens into your patterning.

Turkey Hunting in Michigan with MeatEater’s Mark Kenyon

FAQ

What are the dates for turkey hunting in Michigan?

Michigan Offers both a Spring and Fall season to ticketed hunters. The Spring turkey season runs from April 20 – June 7. The Fall season runs from September 15 – November 14.

What month is best for turkey hunting?

Links

Spring season:

Most hunters consider the spring season as the prime time for turkey hunting due to the increased gobbling activity during breeding.
Early spring:

The early part of the spring season can be particularly good for finding and calling in turkeys.
Check local regulations:

Always check your local hunting regulations to determine the specific dates for turkey hunting in your area.

Where is the best turkey hunting in Michigan?

In the old days, you had to drive into northern Michigan to find good turkey hunting. Today the best spots are kissin’ close to major metropolitan cities like Lansing, Benton Harbor, Kalamazoo, Grand Rapids, Battle Creek, Ann Arbor, Pontiac, Flint, and Saginaw.

Can you hunt turkey from a tree stand in Michigan?

Turkeys can be hunted from a raised platform during the spring and fall seasons on private lands. However, due to separate public land regulations, treestands may only be set up and used on public lands in Michigan from Sept. 1 to March 1.

When can I get a turkey hunt license in Michigan?

In Michigan, the spring schedule shall last from April 20 to June 7. When can I apply for a limited-quota license for a specific spring turkey hunt unit? A single limited-quota license may be requested between January 1 and February 1 for a particular spring turkey game area. To register, you must be at least ten years old.

Can you hunt a Turkey in Michigan?

Spring turkey hunting in southern Michigan is exceptional. With a good number of turkeys living on DNR-managed public lands, the opportunity for hunters to bag a bird has never been better. Visit one of our state game or recreation areas for many opportunities to get your bird. The application period for spring turkey has ended.

How do you manage turkeys in Michigan?

Managing turkeys in Michigan involves the complex interactions of turkey populations, their habitat and their relationship to people. Hunting plays an important role in managing turkeys by regulating their numbers. The goal of the spring turkey hunting season is to maximize hunter opportunity while maintaining a satisfactory hunting experience.

Do you need a license to hunt a bearded Turkey in Michigan?

A number can only be used on one bird at a time, and each shooter can only buy one registration. A spring license, which entitles you to take one bearded turkey during the spring period. Additionally, you must possess a basic license, which can be bought beginning on March 1 and is necessary for anyone hunting in Michigan.

Where can I learn about wild turkey hunting in Michigan?

The DNR, Michigan Wild Turkey Hunters Association, National Wild Turkey Federation, and other groups offer wild turkey hunter orientation courses. A fee may be charged, and space may be limited. For details about events, visit Michigan.gov/Turkey.

Where can I buy a turkey hunting license in Michigan?

If you did not apply for it or are not selected, you can also buy a leftover turkey hunting license from any licensing agent, either online or through the Michigan DNR Hunt Fish app for another hunt period. Another option is to buy a Hunt 0234 license. Southern areas: Late February to early March Northern areas: April