Rifle Rules for Hunting This Season in Lower Michigan (2024 Update) remain largely unchanged from previous years. Some key points to note:
Licenses and Permits
Hunters will need a valid Michigan base license, deer license and hunter safety certificate to hunt deer this season. Licenses can be purchased online or at retailers across the state.
Legal Firearms
The following centerfire rifles are legal for deer hunting:
Any caliber .22 or larger.
Muzzleloaders .40 caliber or larger
Handguns, .357 caliber or larger
Rimfire rifles, air rifles and fully automatic firearms remain prohibited.
Tree Stands and Ground Blinds
Tree stands and ground blinds may be used and placed on public land starting September 1st. Hunters must remove all stands and blinds by January 31st. Stands left overnight must be labelled with hunter’s name and phone number.
As always, hunters should follow safety precautions, wear blaze orange clothing and check local regulations for any additional restrictions within their specific zone or county. Have a safe and successful season!