Today, Michigan hunters are headed out into the woods to kick off the state’s 2024 firearm deer hunting season! The Michigan Dept. of Natural Resources (DNR) has put together a webpage of resources to help hunters have a successful season — find licenses, regulations, maps, and more here. Whether you’re joining in on the firearm deer season or taking part in small game hunting, we’ve also compiled important dates to keep in mind before hitting the great outdoors this year:
The Nov. 15 deer season opener has remained an established tradition here in Michigan since 1968, drawing hundreds of thousands of hunters out each year in hopes of bagging a trophy buck. And the impact of our state’s hunting heritage extends far beyond the thrill of the hunt — every year, hunting and fishing generates $11.2 billion for Michigan’s economy, supports over 171,000 local jobs, provides millions of dollars for wildlife conservation, and helps the fight against hunger through deer meat donations to homeless shelters and food pantries.
Protecting Michigan’s Longstanding Hunting Heritage
Recognizing the cultural, environmental, and economic significance of our state’s hunting and outdoor recreation traditions, Senate Democrats have worked hard to ensure Michigan’s hunters are adequately supported.
Championed by Sen. John Cherry (D-Flint), Senate Bills 803 and 860 aim to maintain huntable numbers of pheasants in game areas and increase the population of American Woodcock in Michigan. This bipartisan legislation was passed by the Senate on Oct. 8, 2024, and was referred to the House Committee on Natural Resources, Environment, Tourism, and Outdoor Recreation, where it awaits further deliberation.
“As an avid outdoorsman, I know how vital it is to protect our game species and hunting traditions for the future. These bills not only extend the successful pheasant license program, allowing us to continue releasing birds into our hunting areas, but they also ensure Michigan remains a key nesting state for the American Woodcock,” said Sen. Cherry. “Together, they enable more Michiganders to get outdoors and enjoy hunting — something many of us cherish deeply.”
Sen. Cherry alongside members of the Senate Natural Resources and Agriculture Committee at a committee hearing on Oct. 1, 2024.
Building further support for Michigan hunters, Sen. Cherry spearheaded bipartisan legislation that reduced penalties for violations of the DNR’s new deer harvest reporting requirement. Signed into law by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer in July of 2023, Senate Bill 52 reduced the penalty from a misdemeanor to a civil infraction with a maximum of $150 in fines.
To help ensure Michigan continues leading as a world-class travel destination for hunting and fishing, Senate Democrats passed bipartisan bills to create a licensing program for commercial hunting and sport fishing guides. Senate Bills 103–105, now state law, help protect our wildlife and ensure that guides are equipped with proper safety training and follow good sportsmanship practices when taking game.
Supporting Michigan’s Great Outdoors & the People Who Depend on Them
To build on the progress made in preserving Michigan’s hunting legacy, Senate Democrats have also focused their legislative efforts on protecting our state’s abundant natural resources.
Signed into law earlier this fall, Senate Bill 817 delivers additional resources to make improvements to outdoor recreational opportunities across the state thanks to the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund. The funding supports 18 land acquisition projects and 35 development projects, enhancing accessibility for trails, park facilities, and access to waterways.
Senate Democrats also secured record investments in the 2025 state budget to safeguard and restore Michigan state parks, wetlands, and other natural resources. To help ensure the proper maintenance of our precious state parks, the Senate passed bipartisan legislation that grants conservation officers and other state employees a fair, sustainable pathway to retirement. Senate Bills 165–167 give these dedicated public servants who help protect Michigan’s natural resources more control over their retirement options and benefits.
Senate Democrats remain committed to bolstering support for Michigan’s hunters and treasured natural resources. We hope all Michigan hunters have a safe and successful deer hunting season!
Sen. Cherry enjoying the great outdoors and showcasing a successful hunt.
Read more from the Michigan Senate Democrats at SenateDems.com/press.