Capitol News

Deer hunters in Michigan are preparing for the upcoming archery season, which runs from October 1 to November 14. The Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has released its 2025 deer hunting preview, indicating that this year’s harvest could be strong across the state, continuing the trend seen in 2024. However, hunters are advised to consider several factors that may affect their experience.

Brent Rudolph, a specialist in deer, elk and moose management with the DNR’s Wildlife Division, said: "Overall, the 2024 deer season was a pretty good one, with hunter participation and deer harvest all generally steady or increasing from the prior year. Variability within each region occurs every year, but for 2025 the wild cards include the borderline severe winter conditions in the U.P., potential ice storm impacts on access to hunting locations in the northern Lower Peninsula and the ongoing EHD outbreak in the southern Lower Peninsula. Hunters always benefit from being prepared, and these are extra factors to look out for this year."

The Upper Peninsula experienced heavy snowfall last winter, which could result in lower deer numbers there. In addition, an outbreak of epizootic hemorrhagic disease (EHD) continues to affect parts of the southern Lower Peninsula. EHD is caused by a virus transmitted by biting midges and can lead to intense but localized deer mortality over several years. As of mid-September this year, EHD has been confirmed in eight counties: Calhoun, Cass, Eaton, Jackson, Lenawee, Mecosta, Van Buren and Washtenaw. The DNR expects more cases until colder weather eliminates midge populations.

Despite concerns about EHD among hunters and consumers of venison, officials note that venison remains safe to eat and there is no evidence humans can contract EHD either from insects or meat.

In March 2025, an ice storm struck twelve counties in Michigan's northern Lower Peninsula. While it is not expected to have significantly reduced local deer populations this season according to DNR projections, it may make accessing some hunting areas difficult due to downed trees and damaged trails. The DNR has worked extensively on clearing roads and reopening trails; however backcountry routes may still be blocked.

Michigan’s archery season resumes December 1 through January 1 of next year after its initial run ends November 14. Regular firearm season will take place November 15-30 followed by muzzleloader season December 5-14. Hunters seeking more details on dates or regulations can visit the DNR’s official deer webpage.

For further information on trends affecting wildlife populations statewide or specific regional updates regarding conditions impacting hunter access or safety measures during outbreaks like EHD or following natural disasters such as ice storms can also be found at official resources provided by Michigan's Department of Natural Resources.