Michigan Bag Limits
Complete daily limits, possession limits, and season limits for hunting and fishing in Michigan.
Michigan Bag Limits
Complete guide to daily limits, possession limits, season limits, and size restrictions for hunting and fishing in Michigan. Updated for the current season.
Big Game
3 species
Game Birds
6 species
Fish Species
5 species
Total Species
16
Big Game
3 species in Michigan
| Species | Daily | Possession | Season | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| White-tailed Deer | 1 | - | Per license/combo held | Antler point restrictions in many areas |
| Black Bear | 1 | - | 1 per year | Draw required; UP best odds |
| Elk | 1 | - | 1 per lifetime | Northern LP only; draw required |
Upland Birds
3 species in Michigan
| Species | Daily | Possession | Season | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wild Turkey | 1 | - | 2 per year | Spring and fall seasons |
| Pheasant | 3 | 6 | - | Southern MI and thumb area |
| Grouse | 5 | 10 | - | Ruffed grouse; UP excellent |
Fish
5 species in Michigan
| Species | Daily | Possession | Season | Size Limit | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Walleye | 5 | - | - | 15" minimum | - |
| Northern Pike | 5 | - | - | 24" minimum | - |
| Smallmouth Bass | 5 | - | - | 12" minimum | - |
| Lake Trout | 2 | - | - | - | Great Lakes regulations |
| Steelhead | 3 | - | - | - | Lake Michigan tributaries |
Michigan Special Notes
Michigan Upper Peninsula offers remote wilderness hunting. Antler restrictions vary by DMU.
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Michigan Regulations Overview
State wildlife agency and regulations information
- Species Covered
- 16 species with regulations
- Big Game Species
-
- White-tailed Deer
- Black Bear
- Elk
- Wildlife Agency
- Michigan Department of Natural Resources
This information is for reference only. Always verify regulations with your state wildlife agency before hunting or fishing.
Last verified: January 2026
Michigan Bag Limits FAQ
Common questions about harvest limits in Michigan
What is the deer bag limit in Michigan?
In Michigan, the daily deer limit is 1 with a season limit of Per license/combo held. Antler point restrictions in many areas
What is the difference between daily and possession limits?
Daily limit is the maximum you can harvest in one day. Possession limit is the maximum you can have at any time, typically 2-3 times the daily limit. In Michigan, possession limits help ensure hunters don't stockpile beyond reasonable personal use.
What big game can I hunt in Michigan?
Michigan offers hunting for: White-tailed Deer, Black Bear, Elk. Each species has specific limits and regulations - always verify current rules before hunting.
What are the fishing limits in Michigan?
Michigan fishing limits include: Walleye: 5/day (15" minimum); Northern Pike: 5/day (24" minimum); Smallmouth Bass: 5/day (12" minimum); Lake Trout: 2/day. Water-specific regulations may override general limits.
Where can I find official Michigan bag limits?
For official and current bag limits, check your Michigan wildlife agency website. Regulations can change annually, and specific areas may have different rules. Always carry current regulations while hunting.
Are there special regulations I should know about in Michigan?
Michigan Upper Peninsula offers remote wilderness hunting. Antler restrictions vary by DMU.
Other States
View bag limits for more states
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