If you missed the application period for a spring turkey license, itís ok. Opportunities for other licenses are still available.
New this year, spring turkey hunters may purchase a Hunt 234 license, a statewide hunting license valid for all open areas except public lands in Unit ZZ (southern Lower Peninsula and Beaver Island). Hunters can purchase a Hunt 234 license through May 31.
Turkey hunters may also purchase a leftover license for areas where licenses are still available. For a list of available licenses, go to www.michigan.gov/huntdrawings. Licenses will be sold until quotas are met.
ìMichigan has been ranked top ten in the nation for turkey harvest on an annual basis by the National Wild Turkey Federation,î said Al Stewart, DNR upland game bird specialist. ìThe DNRís goal for the spring turkey season is to maximize hunting opportunities and maintain satisfactory hunting experiences. Over the years, Michigan hunters have consistently exceeded turkey hunter satisfaction goals.î
New this year, all hunters will need to purchase a base license, which includes a small game license. Base licenses are $11 for residents, $6 for youth and $5 for seniors.
After purchasing a base license, Michigan residents can purchase a spring turkey license for $15, while seniors can purchase a spring turkey license for $6.
It is unlawful to obtain or purchase more than one spring turkey hunting license. Those hunting private land should receive permission to hunt before purchasing a private-land-only license.
Youth hunters 9 years old and younger can participate in the spring turkey season through the Mentored Youth Hunting Program. The mentored youth hunting license is $7.50 and entitles the youth hunter to hunt turkey during the spring and fall seasons in any open hunt period or location, on either private or public land. This license gives mentored youth opportunities for small game, deer (one tag, any deer), furbearer and fish (all species) during the appropriate seasons. Please go to www.michigan.gov/mentoredhunting for mentor requirements and information.
For more information about spring turkey hunting, visit www.michigan.gov/turkey.