As autumn deepens across Michigan, the state’s woods, fields, and wetlands are coming alive with anticipation. The brilliant fall colors may be fading, but for hunters, the real excitement is just beginning. From the crunch of leaves beneath a deer stand to the echo of waterfowl calls over a foggy marsh, late October through winter brings some of the best opportunities of the year for Michigan outdoorsmen and women.
Here’s what to expect for deer, waterfowl, and upland bird seasons into October and November — and how to make the most of this peak time in the Michigan outdoors.
Deer Season: The Heart of Michigan Hunting
The state’s iconic deer season is entering its prime. Archery hunters have already been in the woods since early October, but the action is only heating up as the rut approaches. The archery season continues through November 14, giving bowhunters a few more weeks to intercept bucks as they move restlessly through their territories.
Then, the most anticipated stretch of the year begins: firearm season, running from November 15 through November 30. For many Michigan families, these two weeks are a tradition as old as time — a mix of camaraderie, campfire stories, and crisp mornings in the stand. Hunters can expect shifting deer behavior as the rut tapers off and food sources become the main draw.
After the guns go quiet, additional opportunities remain for those who want to stay in the woods. Muzzleloader season opens December 5–14, followed by the late antlerless firearm season from December 15 through January 1, 2026. Some counties also offer extended archery hunts through the end of January, providing a final chance to fill tags.
Hunters should also note that all harvested deer must be reported online, part of the DNR’s efforts to monitor populations and track diseases like chronic wasting disease (CWD).
With shifting temperatures and less foliage, late-fall hunts demand preparation. Safety harnesses, clear shooting lanes, and an eye on wind direction can make all the difference. And for those willing to brave the cold, late-season hunts often reward patience — deer pattern more predictably around food sources as the snow sets in.
Waterfowl Season: Flight Paths and Frosted Marshes
While deer hunters head to the woods, waterfowlers will be scanning the skies. The migration is in full swing, bringing flocks of ducks and geese down from the north. For many Michigan hunters, this is the most dynamic time of the year — every cold front can change the landscape overnight.
In the North Zone, the main duck and merganser season continues through November 23, with a short reopening November 29–30. The Middle Zone stays open until November 30, then briefly again in mid-December (December 13–14). For the South Zone, waterfowl hunting stretches deep into winter, ending December 14, with a short late split December 27–28.
Canada goose hunters get even more opportunity, with additional segments running into January and February 2026 in some southern counties.
These later hunts can be challenging — the weather turns harsher, and birds grow wary — but they can also be some of the most rewarding. Big flocks often push through just ahead of storms, offering action-packed hunts.
Late-season success depends on adaptability: adjusting decoy spreads for weary birds, staying concealed in snow-covered fields, and following migration reports closely. The DNR’s latest regulations have also tweaked bag limits and frameworks, including a higher pintail limit for 2025.
So whether you prefer a layout blind in a frozen cornfield or a marsh-side setup before sunrise, Michigan’s wetlands will stay busy long after the leaves are gone.
Small Game and Upland Birds: The Sound of Wings in the Woods
For those who prefer a lighter gun and a good dog, late October and November bring prime conditions for small game and upland birds.
Pheasant hunters can still find good action through October 31 in Zone 1 and November 14 in Zone 2. These open fields and fencerows are alive with color and motion as the last of the season’s roosters flush at sunrise. The mix of golden grasses and crisp air makes these hunts as scenic as they are exciting.
Meanwhile, ruffed grouse remain open through November 14, then reopen for a late window from December 1 through January 1, 2026. As leaves drop, visibility improves, but the birds retreat to thicker cover — a test of both marksmanship and endurance.
And don’t forget about Michigan’s classic small-game species: rabbits, hares, and squirrels are fair game all the way through March 31, 2026. These hunts are perfect for newer hunters or those looking to keep their skills sharp after deer season.
The state now requires a pheasant license for hunting on public land in the Lower Peninsula, so double-check your tags before heading out.
As the calendar turns past October, the opportunities are abundant and diverse. Whether you’re tracking a wary buck through the snow, calling in a flight of geese on a frozen pond, or following your dog’s bell through aspen coverts, this is the heart of Michigan hunting.
For complete zone maps, licensing details, and any last-minute changes, hunters can visit the Michigan DNR’s website at michigan.gov/dnr.
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