A hunter's look at Michigan's finalized 2024 deer rules, the changes that arrived, and the ones that did not.
Michigan finalized its 2024 deer regulations with several changes worth knowing. Limited Upper Peninsula areas received a doe season requiring special permits, and the Lower Peninsula moved to any legal firearm during muzzleloader season.
Additional counties joined the extended late archery season through January 31. Early and late antlerless seasons expanded to public land, and a number of Lower Peninsula counties received longer antlerless seasons and discounted tags.
The state was working to reduce doe numbers, but hunters asking for broader antler point restrictions or the return of baiting did not get those changes. That left some sportsmen frustrated with how public opinion was reflected in the final rules.
Whatever the regulation, hunters can still practice selective harvest and put extra antlerless opportunities to good use. Donating venison through Michigan Sportsmen Against Hunger is one way to manage deer responsibly and help local families.