Application period: Jan. 1 - Feb. 1, 2024
RAP (Report All Poaching): Call or text 800-292-7800
2024
Reminders
• Hunt 0234 licenses
available without
application; see page 10.
Drawing results
available March 11.
Michigan
Stay on top of the latest news from the Michigan DNR!
Visit us at Michigan.gov/DNREmail to sign up for email updates!
TURKEY MANAGEMENT
Turkey management
Managing turkeys in Michigan ........................................................ 3
Spring turkey drawing system ......................................................... 3
2024 hunting information
2024 hunting information ............................................................... 4
How to apply for a spring turkey license ......................................... 5
2024 spring turkey management units .......................................... 8
Spring turkey season structure ....................................................... 8
2024 spring turkey hunts ................................................................ 9
License purchase ...........................................................................12
Leftover licenses ............................................................................13
Apprentice hunting .........................................................................13
Mentored youth hunting ................................................................14
Special hunting opportunities for youth and hunters with
disabilities.......................................................................................14
Hunting hours .................................................................................15
Bag limit .......................................................................................... 18
Hunting methods ............................................................................18
Elevated platforms and ground blinds ..........................................19
Hunting zone boundary map ......................................................... 21
Baiting .............................................................................................21
Decoys and calls ............................................................................22
Validating harvest ..........................................................................22
Using spur length to age a turkey .................................................23
Wild turkey cooperator patch ........................................................23
2024 spring turkey workshops ......................................................25
Where can I hunt in Michigan? .....................................................25
General information
Wildlife diseases ............................................................................26
Turkey reporting options ................................................................ 27
Poachers beware: Hunters are watching ......................................27
3
2024 Michigan Spring Turkey Hunting Regulations Summary
TURKEY MANAGEMENT
The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is committed to
the conservation, protection, management, use and enjoyment
of the state’s natural and cultural resources for current and future
generations.
The Michigan Natural Resources Commission is a seven-member
public body whose members are appointed by the governor and
subject to the advice and consent of the Senate. The NRC has
exclusive authority to regulate the taking of game and sportsh.
The commission conducts monthly, public meetings in locations
throughout Michigan. Citizens are encouraged to become actively
involved in these public forums. For more information, visit
Michigan.gov/NRC.
NOTICE: This brochure is not a legal notice or a complete collection
of hunting regulations and laws. It is a condensed digest issued for
hunters’ convenience. Copies of Wildlife Conservation Orders, which
contain complete listings of regulations and legal descriptions, are
available on our website at Michigan.gov/DNRLaws.
Managing turkeys in Michigan involves the complex interactions of turkey
populations, their habitat and their relationship to people. Hunting plays an
important role in managing turkeys by regulating their numbers. The goal of the
spring turkey hunting season is to maximize hunter opportunity while maintaining
a satisfactory hunting experience. License quotas are developed to harvest the
desired number of turkeys to meet the management goal. For more information on
turkey management in Michigan, visit Michigan.gov/Turkey.
Michigan residents and nonresidents are eligible to purchase a spring turkey
license. Spring turkey licenses are valid for specic areas and hunting dates. In
many turkey management units (TMUs), license availability is subject to a license
quota. Hunters can apply for one spring turkey license. Successful applicants will
be selected by a random drawing system. Leftover licenses that remain after the
drawing will be available on a rst-come, rst-served basis until quotas are met.
Hunt 0234 is a statewide, guaranteed spring turkey license that does not have a
license quota. An application is not required to purchase a Hunt 0234 license or
leftover license, if available. Hunters can only purchase one spring turkey license
per year.
2024 Michigan Spring Turkey Hunting Regulations Summary
2024 HUNTING INFORMATION
4
How many licenses can I apply for?
From Jan. 1 - Feb. 1, you can apply for one spring turkey license valid for a specic
spring turkey management unit during specic season dates. You must be at least
10 years old to apply.
How much is an application?
An application is $5.
How do I know if I was successful in the drawing?
You are responsible for obtaining your drawing results. Drawing results will be
available on March 11 online at Michigan.gov/DNRLicenses, through the Michigan
DNR Hunt Fish app or by calling 517-284-9453 (WILD).
What happens if I’m selected in the drawing?
You can purchase the license for which you were selected. See the License
purchase section for more information.
What happens if I’m not selected in the drawing?
If you applied for the drawing and were unsuccessful, you can purchase a leftover
license for another hunt period with quota remaining beginning March 18 at 10
a.m. Eastern Standard Time. Depending on how many hunters apply, leftover
licenses may or may not be available for some management units and/or dates.
What happens if I didn’t apply for the drawing?
If you didn’t apply for the drawing, you have two options. You can purchase a
leftover license, if available, or you can purchase a Hunt 0234 license. Leftover
licenses and the Hunt 0234 license will go on sale March 25 at 10 a.m. EST. See
the Hunt 0234 and Leftover licenses sections for more information.
Where can I buy a license?
You can buy a license from any license agent, online at Michigan.gov/DNRLicenses
or through the Michigan DNR Hunt Fish app. The app is available for download
at the Google Play Store or the Apple App Store. Find a license agent at
Michigan.gov/DNRLicenseAgents.
How many licenses can I purchase?
You can purchase one spring turkey license.
How many turkeys can I harvest with a license?
You can harvest one bearded turkey.
I’m a mentored youth hunter. Can I get a spring turkey license?
If you are licensed under the Mentored Youth Hunting Program, you automatically
receive a spring turkey license. See the Mentored youth hunting section for more
information.
2024 Michigan Spring Turkey Hunting Regulations Summary
5
What identication do I need to apply for the drawing?
You will need a valid driver’s license issued by the state where you live or a State
of Michigan ID card (issued by the Secretary of State) or a DNR Sportcard (issued
by any license agent, online at Michigan.gov/DNRLicenses or on the Michigan DNR
Hunt Fish app).
I’m only 9 years old. Can I apply for the drawing?
If you are licensed under the Mentored Youth Hunting Program, you automatically
receive a spring turkey license, so there is no need to apply. See the Mentored
youth hunting section for more information.
I’m an apprentice hunter. Can I apply for the drawing?
Yes. See the Apprentice hunting license section for more information.
How do I apply for the drawing?
1) Look at the 2024 spring turkey management units map on page 8 and choose
the TMU(s) you want to hunt.
2) Look at the 2024 spring turkey hunts on pages 9-10 to nd your desired season
dates for the TMU(s) you chose. Make note of the corresponding hunt number(s)
and be sure to select this number when purchasing your application.
3) Purchase an application for the hunt number(s) you chose (you can select two
hunt numbers — rst and second choice). You can purchase an application at
any license agent, online at Michigan.gov/DNRLicenses or through the Michigan
DNR Hunt Fish app.
4) Check your receipt for accuracy and retain it as proof of your application.
What is the difference between “rst hunt choice” and “second hunt choice”?
First hunt choices have priority for selection. When applying, you must choose
a rst hunt choice and may also choose an optional second hunt choice. If you
choose a second hunt choice, it will be considered only if licenses remain for
that TMU and hunt period after all rst hunt choices have been awarded for all
applicants. There is no guarantee that licenses will be available for second hunt
choices in any hunt period.
How many times can I apply?
You can only apply one time. It is unlawful to apply more than once.
Can I apply to hunt with other hunters?
Yes. You can apply in a partnership with one other person. If you apply with more
than one partner, you will be ineligible for the drawing.
How do I apply with someone else as a partnership?
The rst person to apply (either you or your hunting partner) selects the hunt
number(s) and receives a “party ID” number, which is printed on the receipt. A new
Continued
2024 Michigan Spring Turkey Hunting Regulations Summary
2024 HUNTING INFORMATION
6
party ID number is issued each year. Then, the other partner uses the party ID
number when applying to complete the partnership. Make sure to verify the party
ID number is identical on both receipts.
The receipt I received is not printed clearly or has an error. What do I do?
You are responsible for obtaining a DNR application receipt that correctly states
your customer ID and hunt choice. Do not accept a receipt that is not legible.
Check your receipt for accuracy and retain as proof that you applied. Ensure any
application errors are corrected prior to the application deadline. If you submit an
invalid application, you will be ineligible for the drawing.
I’m having trouble applying. What do I do?
You can call 517-284-9453 (WILD) for assistance.
2024 Michigan Spring Turkey Hunting Regulations Summary
7
2024 Michigan Spring Turkey Hunting Regulations Summary
2024 HUNTING INFORMATION
8
For detailed descriptions of turkey management unit boundaries, visit
Michigan.gov/DNRLaws or contact a DNR customer service center.
Why do the spring turkey season dates change each year?
Spring turkey season dates are determined by a formula. Each year, the spring
turkey season starts on the second to last Saturday in April and continues for a
specic number of days thereafter, as dened in the Wildlife Conservation Order.
Isle Royale of Keweenaw County (not pictured) is closed to spring turkey hunting.
2024 Michigan Spring Turkey Hunting Regulations Summary
9
General licenses
What type of land can I hunt with a general license?
The general licenses listed below are valid on all public and private land within the
unit.
TMU Season dates
License
quota
Hunt
number
A April 20 – May 3 5,500 0101
B April 20 – May 3 1,000 0102
E April 20 – May 3 1,700 0103
F April 20 – May 3 5,000 0105
J April 20 – May 3 4,000 0107
K April 20–26 4,000 0108
K April 27 – May 3 4,500 0109
M April 20 – May 31 6,000 0110
ZA April 20–26 and June 1–7 1,200 0111
ZA April 27 – May 10 1,800 0112
ZA May 11–31 1,800 0113
ZB April 20–26 and June 1–7 650 0115
ZB April 27 – May 10 975 0116
ZB May 11–31 975 0117
ZC April 20–26 and June 1–7 600 0119
ZC April 27 – May 10 900 0120
ZC May 11–31 900 0121
ZD April 20–26 and June 1–7 10 0123
ZD April 27 – May 10 15 0124
ZD May 11–31 15 0125
ZE April 20–26 and June 1–7 500 0127
ZE April 27 – May 10 750 0128
ZE May 11–31 750 0129
ZF April 20–26 and June 1–7 1,300 0131
ZF April 27 – May 10 1,300 0132
ZF May 11–31 3,000 0133
2024 Michigan Spring Turkey Hunting Regulations Summary
2024 HUNTING INFORMATION
10
Private-land-only licenses
If I get a private-land-only license, are there any exceptions that allow hunting
on public land?
The private-land-only license, Hunt 0301 (Unit ZZ), can only be used on private
land, with permission from the landowner. Hunt 0301 (Unit ZZ) is not valid on
county, state or federal lands. Exception: Licenses valid for Hunt 0301 (Unit ZZ)
can be used to hunt Fort Custer military lands with permission.
TMU Season dates License quota Hunt number
ZZ April 20 – May 31 50,000 0301
Hunt 0234
What is Hunt 0234?
Hunt 0234 is a statewide, guaranteed spring turkey license that does not require
an application in the drawing.
Where can I hunt with a Hunt 0234 license?
With the Hunt 0234 license, you can hunt on:
• Both public and private lands in the Upper Peninsula (Unit M) and in the
northern Lower Peninsula (Units A, B, E, F, J and K).
• Private land only in the southern Lower Peninsula (Unit ZZ).
• Fort Custer military lands with permission.
When can I purchase a Hunt 0234 license?
You can purchase a Hunt 0234 license when leftover licenses go on sale March 25
at 10 a.m. EST. This license has no quota and can be purchased throughout the
entire spring turkey hunting season.
Can I purchase a Hunt 0234 license in addition to a private-land-only license or
a general license?
No. You can only purchase one spring turkey license.
TMU Season dates License quota Hunt number
Statewide May 4–31 None 0234
2024 Michigan Spring Turkey Hunting Regulations Summary
11
2024 Michigan Spring Turkey Hunting Regulations Summary
2024 HUNTING INFORMATION
12
Licenses by age
Age:
up to 9
Junior
age: 10-16
Resident
age:
17-64
Resident
senior
age: 65+
Nonresident*
age: 17+
Mentored youth license $7.50 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Application for license
drawing
N/A $5 $5 $5 $5
Base license N/A $6 $11 $5 $151
Spring turkey license N/A $15 $15 $6 $15
DNR Sportcard $1 $1 $1 $1 $1
*Nonresidents under 17 years old may purchase a resident base license.
Resident active-duty U.S. military personnel and Michigan veterans with disabilities
Resident active-duty military personnel and resident veterans with a 100% disability
rating can obtain a leftover spring turkey license, if available, free of charge beginning
March 25. Licenses are full price for those who apply for a license and are selected in
the drawing.
I was selected for a license. Where can I purchase my license?
You can purchase your spring turkey license at any license agent, online at
Michigan.gov/DNRLicenses or through the Michigan DNR Hunt Fish app.
I was selected in the drawing, but cannot purchase my license. Why not?
A base license is required for everyone who hunts in Michigan. While an
application can be purchased prior to obtaining a base license, you must
purchase a 2024 base license before you can purchase a spring turkey license.
When can I purchase a 2024 base license?
The 2024 base license will be available for purchase from any license agent,
online at Michigan.gov/DNRLicenses or through the Michigan DNR Hunt Fish app,
beginning March 1, 2024.
What is a kill tag?
A kill tag is a license that must be afxed to a harvested wild turkey. You cannot
harvest a wild turkey without the physical kill tag in your possession. Harvest
information must be recorded as indicated on the kill tag (date of harvest, sex of
animal, etc.). See the Validating harvest section for more information.
I purchased my spring turkey license online. When will I get my kill tag?
If you purchased your spring turkey license online, your kill tag will be mailed to
you seven to 10 business days after your purchase.
Can I purchase more than one spring turkey license?
No. You cannot purchase more than one spring turkey hunting license per year.
2024 Michigan Spring Turkey Hunting Regulations Summary
13
What is a base apprentice hunting license?
A base apprentice hunting license allows anyone at least 10 years old who does
not have a hunter safety certicate to hunt during the current hunting seasons with
a qualied mentor. An apprentice hunter may purchase this license for two license
years before they must complete a hunter safety course. Complete information
about the apprentice hunting license can be found in the Michigan Hunting
Regulations Summary or online at Michigan.gov/MentoredHunting.
As an apprentice hunter, can I apply for the drawing?
Yes. You can apply for a spring turkey license in the drawing if you are an
apprentice hunter.
As an apprentice hunter, can I purchase a spring turkey license?
Yes. If you have a current base apprentice hunting license, you can purchase a
spring turkey license awarded in the drawing or a leftover spring turkey license, if
available.
Do I have to carry my spring turkey license when hunting?
Yes. You must carry your spring turkey license and the identication used to
purchase that license and present both upon demand of a Michigan conservation
ofcer, a tribal conservation ofcer or any law enforcement ofcer when hunting.
Are there always leftover licenses available?
There is no guarantee that leftover licenses will be available for any hunt unit,
except Hunt 0234, which has no quota.
When can I purchase a leftover license if I was unsuccessful in the drawing?
If any licenses remain after the drawing and you have a current base license, you
can purchase a leftover spring turkey license on a rst-come, rst-served basis for
a one-week period beginning March 18 at 10 a.m. EST.
When can I purchase a leftover license if I didn’t apply in the drawing?
If any licenses remain as of March 25 at 10 a.m. EST and you have a current base
license, you can purchase a leftover spring turkey license on a rst-come, rst-
served basis.
How do I purchase a leftover license?
A leftover spring turkey license can be purchased, if available, from any license
agent, online at Michigan.gov/DNRLicenses or through the Michigan DNR Hunt
Fish app. The Michigan DNR Hunt Fish app is available for download at the Google
Play Store or the Apple App Store.
How many leftover licenses can I purchase?
You can purchase only one spring turkey license.
2024 Michigan Spring Turkey Hunting Regulations Summary
2024 HUNTING INFORMATION
14
Does my accompanying hunter need to have a spring turkey license for the
same unit and hunt period as me?
For hunting turkey, your accompanying hunter needs a current-year spring turkey
license, but it does not have to be for the same management unit or season
dates as your spring turkey license.
What is the Mentored Youth Hunting Program?
The Mentored Youth Hunting Program allows youth hunters 9 years old and
younger to hunt with a mentor who is at least 21 years old, has hunting
experience and has a valid Michigan hunting license other than an apprentice
license.
What can mentored youth hunt with their license?
The mentored youth license is a “package” license to hunt small game,
waterfowl, turkey (spring and fall) and deer, trap furbearers, and sh for
all species. Additional restrictions apply; complete program details can
be found in the Michigan Hunting Regulations Summary or online at
Michigan.gov/MentoredHunting.
I’m a mentored youth hunter. How many turkeys can I kill in the spring, and
where can I hunt?
As a mentored youth hunter, you get one spring turkey kill tag, which is valid for
one bearded turkey in any open spring turkey hunt unit on public or private land.
As a mentored youth hunter, can I apply for the spring turkey license?
No. You will receive one spring turkey kill tag with your mentored youth license. All
hunters are allowed only one spring turkey kill tag.
As a mentored youth hunter, do I need an application for the mentored youth
license?
No. An application is not required for the mentored youth license.
Are there special opportunities for youth or hunters with disabilities?
Yes. The Fort Custer Training Center near Battle Creek offers turkey hunting
opportunities periodically for properly licensed youth (Hunt 0301) and hunters
with disabilities (Hunt 0234). For current hunting opportunities, dates and more
information, please visit FortCusterHunt.org and click on the “Turkey Hunts” tab
or call 269-282-7878.
2024 Michigan Spring Turkey Hunting Regulations Summary
15
When is it legal for me to hunt spring turkey?
Actual legal hunting hours (one-half hour before sunrise to one-half hour before
sunset) for Zone A are printed in the table. To determine the opening (a.m.) or
closing (p.m.) time in another zone, add the minutes shown on the map for the
zone to the time from the Zone A hunting hours table. The hunting hours listed in
the table reect Eastern Standard Time adjusted for daylight saving time where
appropriate. If you are hunting in Gogebic, Iron, Dickinson or Menominee
counties (Central Standard Time), you must make an additional adjustment to
the printed time by subtracting one hour.
Hunting hours map
2024 Michigan Spring Turkey Hunting Regulations Summary
2024 HUNTING INFORMATION
16
Zone A hunting hours table (April - June)
Hunting hours listed are one half-hour before sunrise to one-half hour before
sunset (adjusted for daylight savings time).
Date Time
Zone
A
a.m.
Time
Zone
A
p.m.
April 20 6:13 7:50
April 21 6:11 7:51
April 22 6:10 7:52
April 23 6:08 7:53
April 24 6:07 7:55
April 25 6:05 7:56
April 26 6:04 7:57
April 27 6:02 7:58
April 28 6:01 7:59
April 29 5:59 8:00
April 30 5:58 8:01
Date Time
Zone
A
a.m.
Time
Zone
A
p.m.
May 1 5:57 8:02
May 2 5:55 8:04
May 3 5:54 8:05
May 4 5:53 8:06
May 5 5:52 8:07
May 6 5:50 8:08
May 7 5:49 8:09
May 8 5:48 8:10
May 9 5:47 8:11
May 10 5:46 8:12
May 11 5:44 8:13
May 12 5:43 8:14
May 13 5:42 8:15
May 14 5:41 8:16
May 15 5:40 8:17
May 16 5:39 8:19
May 17 5:38 8:20
May 18 5:37 8:21
May 19
5:37 8:22
May 20 5:36 8:22
May 21 5:35 8:23
May 22 5:34 8:24
May 23 5:33 8:25
May 24 5:32 8:26
May 25 5:32 8:27
May 26 5:31 8:28
May 27 5:30 8:29
May 28 5:30 8:30
May 29 5:29 8:31
May 30 5:29 8:31
May 31 5:28 8:32
Date Time
Zone
A
a.m.
Time
Zone
A
p.m.
June 1 5:28 8:33
June 2 5:27 8:34
June 3 5:27 8:34
June 4 5:27 8:35
June 5 5:26 8:36
June 6 5:26 8:36
June 7 5:26 8:37
2024 Michigan Spring Turkey Hunting Regulations Summary
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2024 Michigan Spring Turkey Hunting Regulations Summary
2024 HUNTING INFORMATION
18
How many turkeys can I harvest with my spring turkey license?
You can harvest one bearded turkey per spring turkey license.
Can I harvest a spring turkey without a beard?
No. You can only harvest a bearded turkey during the spring turkey hunting
season.
Can I purchase more than one spring turkey license?
No. You can only purchase one spring turkey license per year.
Can I put my kill tag on a spring turkey someone else harvested?
No. You cannot put your kill tag on a spring turkey you did not harvest.
Can I use the same kill tag on more than one spring turkey?
No. You cannot use a kill tag more than once.
Can I use my friend’s kill tag, or can they use mine?
No. You cannot use another person’s kill tag or allow another person to use your
kill tag.
What equipment can I use to hunt a spring turkey?
You can use a bow and arrow, a crossbow, a rearm that res a xed shotgun shell
or a muzzleloading shotgun. It is illegal to use or carry aeld any other rearm.
I have a concealed pistol license. Can I carry my pistol while hunting?
Yes. The prohibition on carrying any other type of rearm does not apply to pistols
carried under authority of a concealed pistol license, or under a specic exception
from the CPL requirement.
What kind of ammunition can I use in my rearm while spring turkey hunting?
When spring turkey hunting, you cannot use or carry aeld any ammunition except
shotgun shells loaded with No. 4 or smaller shot or No. 4 or smaller loose shot for
use in muzzleloading shotguns.
Can I use a pneumatic gun for spring turkey hunting in Michigan?
Yes. A pneumatic gun can be used for spring turkey hunting if it is muzzleloading
or designed to re a xed shell. Fixed shells for pneumatic guns must contain No.
4 shot or smaller. Muzzleloading pneumatic guns must contain loose shot that is
No. 4 or smaller.
Do I have to use nontoxic shot when spring turkey hunting?
While not required by law, it is recommended that you use nontoxic shot when
spring turkey hunting.
2024 Michigan Spring Turkey Hunting Regulations Summary
19
I hunt with a crossbow. Are there any restrictions on which arrows I can use?
Yes. You can only use arrows, bolts and quarrels at least 14 inches in length, tipped
with a broadhead point at least 7/8 inch wide.
Do I need to wear hunter orange while spring turkey hunting?
No. If you are spring turkey hunting, you are exempt from the hunter orange
requirement.
Can I use my hunting dogs to hunt a turkey during the spring season?
No. You cannot hunt a turkey with dogs during the spring season.
Can I harvest a turkey if it is in a tree?
No. You cannot harvest a turkey while it is in a tree.
What is an elevated platform?
An elevated platform means any horizontal surface, constructed or manufactured
by a person, that increases the eld of vision of a person using it beyond the eld
of vision that normally would be attained by that person standing on the ground.
Elevated platforms include scaffolds, raised platforms, ladders, steps and any other
device that is used to assist in climbing a tree.
I spring turkey hunt on private lands. Can I use an elevated platform?
Yes. You can spring turkey hunt from an elevated platform using a bow and arrow, a
crossbow or a rearm on private lands.
I spring turkey hunt on public lands. Can I use an elevated platform?
No. Elevated platforms are prohibited on public lands during the spring turkey
hunting season. Elevated platforms are only permitted on public lands from Sept. 1
through March 1.
What is a ground blind?
A ground blind means a structure, enclosure or any material, natural or
manufactured, placed on the ground to assist in concealing or disguising a person
for the purpose of harvesting an animal.
Can I use a ground blind on public lands during the spring turkey hunting
season?
Yes. However, only the following three types of ground blinds are legal on public
lands:
Type 1 (portable ground blind): This blind must be clearly portable and removed at
the end of each day’s hunt (if you wish to leave your blind out overnight, see Type
3 below). Fasteners, if used to attach or anchor the blind, cannot penetrate the
cambium of a tree and must be removed daily. No identication is required. These
blinds may be used for legal hunting on public lands, including all state game
areas, state parks and state recreation areas in Zone 3.
Continued
2024 Michigan Spring Turkey Hunting Regulations Summary
2024 HUNTING INFORMATION
20
Type 2 (dead natural materials ground blind): This blind must be constructed
exclusively of dead and natural materials found on the ground in the area of
the blind, except that a hunter may add netting, cloth, plastic or other materials
for concealment or protection from the weather if these materials are not
permanently fastened to the blind and are removed at the end of each day’s
hunt. These items can be tied to the blind but cannot be stapled, nailed, glued or
fastened in any permanent manner. No identication is required. Fasteners (nails,
screws, etc.) cannot be used in construction. These blinds may be used for legal
hunting on public lands, including all state game areas, state parks and state
recreation areas in Zone 3.
Type 3 (constructed ground blind): This includes all other blinds not meeting the
requirements of either Type 1 or Type 2, including portable ground blinds, if not
removed daily. Identication is required. These blinds are not legal on state game
areas, state parks and state recreation areas in Zone 3. Fasteners, if used to
anchor or attach the blind, cannot penetrate the cambium of a tree and must be
removed with the blind.
What information must I tag my ground blind with?
In legible English, you must permanently afx your name and address, or Michigan
driver’s license number or DNR Sportcard number, to any Type 3 ground blind if it
is placed on public lands.
Can someone else use my ground blind that is on public lands?
Yes. Your name and address, or Michigan driver’s license number or DNR
Sportcard number, on a ground blind on public land does not guarantee exclusive
use. You may not use an illegal tree stand, scaffold, step, etc., or ground blind
regardless of who placed it on public lands.
2024 Michigan Spring Turkey Hunting Regulations Summary
21
For detailed descriptions of hunting zone boundaries, visit
Michigan.gov/DNRLaws or contact a DNR customer service center.
Can I bait turkeys during the spring turkey hunting season?
No. You cannot use bait during the spring turkey hunting season.
Can you dene “bait” for me?
For the purpose of this regulation, “bait” means a substance composed of grain,
fruit, vegetables or other food placed to lure or entice wild turkeys. This does not
apply to standing farm crops (normal agricultural practices) or other naturally
growing grains, fruits or vegetables.
2024 Michigan Spring Turkey Hunting Regulations Summary
2024 HUNTING INFORMATION
22
Can I use mechanical, electronic or live decoys to hunt a spring turkey?
No. You cannot use mechanical, electronic or live decoys to hunt a spring turkey.
Can you dene “mechanical decoy” for me?
Mechanical decoy means any device that, by design or construction, uses motion
as a visual stimulus to attract a turkey.
Is a decoy moved by the wind considered mechanical?
No. A windsock or similar decoy body anchored at a xed point into the ground,
and whose only motion is derived exclusively by power of the natural wind, is not
considered a mechanical decoy.
Can I stalk a turkey using handheld decoys/silhouettes?
No. You cannot stalk a turkey with a handheld decoy/silhouette.
Can I use electronic turkey calls to hunt a spring turkey?
No. You cannot use or possess electronic devices that imitate turkey calls while
hunting a spring turkey.
Can I tag my turkey after I take some photos with it rst?
No. Immediately after harvesting and before moving a turkey, you must validate
your kill tag and securely attach the kill tag around a leg of the turkey. You cannot
transport or have in your possession a turkey unless the validated kill tag is
attached to a leg of the turkey.
How do I validate my kill tag?
To validate your kill tag, you must notch out the appropriate information as
instructed on the kill tag.
How should I tag my harvested turkey?
The best way to attach a kill tag is to lay a strong piece of wire or cord across
the back of the kill tag so the tag can be folded in half and to tape it in place as
needed. Tie the wire or cord to the turkey’s leg in such a manner that the kill tag
remains securely attached. Do not stick or wrap the kill tag directly onto the leg
of a turkey. Make sure the kill tag is completely legible and visible for inspection.
The kill tag must remain attached until you process or butcher the turkey or until
the turkey is accepted for processing and recorded by a commercial processor or
taxidermist.
2024 Michigan Spring Turkey Hunting Regulations Summary
23
Spur length (in.) Curvature Sharpness Age of gobbler
Less than
0.5” None Rounded Younger than 1 year
0.5” to 1” Straight Blunt 1 to 2 years
1” to 1.25” Slightly curved Pointed 2 to 3 years
Over 1.25” Curved Sharp Older than 3 years
Who coordinates the Wild Turkey Patch Program?
Michigan’s Wild Turkey Patch Program is coordinated by the Michigan chapter of
the National Wild Turkey Federation, in partnership with the DNR.
What is the National Wild Turkey Federation?
The National Wild Turkey Federation is a not-for-prot organization dedicated to
the conservation of the American wild turkey and the preservation of our hunting
tradition. Proceeds from patch sales are used to fund wild turkey-related projects
Continued
2024 Michigan Spring Turkey Hunting Regulations Summary
2024 HUNTING INFORMATION
24
and management in Michigan. Each year the National Wild Turkey Federation,
working cooperatively with the DNR, contributes more than $300,000 to wild
turkey and hunter-heritage programs in Michigan.
Do I need to harvest a turkey to purchase a wild turkey patch?
No. You do not have to harvest a turkey to purchase a patch.
How much does a wild turkey patch cost for adults?
Adult hunters, collectors and other interested individuals can purchase a wild
turkey patch for $7, including postage and handling.
How much does a wild turkey patch cost for young spring turkey hunters?
Young hunters, 17 years old and younger, who have a valid spring turkey
hunting license can get a free wild turkey patch by sending their name and
complete address, along with a legible copy of their valid spring turkey hunting
license, to National Wild Turkey Federation, Wild Turkey Patch Program,
P.O. Box 471, Schoolcraft, MI 49087. If you have questions, please email
MichiganWildTurkeyPatch@yahoo.com.
Can I order wild turkey patches from previous years?
No. You can only purchase the current-year wild turkey patch.
How do I order a wild turkey patch?
Wild turkey patches must be ordered online at MINWTF.org. Mail-in patch orders
will no longer be accepted, except for the free wild turkey patch for young hunters.
How long will it take to receive my patch?
You should receive your wild turkey patch in four to six weeks.
2024 Michigan Spring Turkey Hunting Regulations Summary
25
I’m new to spring turkey hunting. Is there a program to help new hunters like
me?
Yes. The DNR, Michigan Wild Turkey Hunters Association, National Wild Turkey
Federation and other groups may offer wild turkey hunter orientation courses.
A fee may be charged, and space may be limited. For details about events, visit
Michigan.gov/Turkey.
Over 4.5 million acres of public land are managed by the DNR and open to hunting!
Millions of additional private-land acres are leased or enrolled in programs to allow
hunting by all. Visit Michigan.gov/Hunting to nd out where.
What are Turkey Tracts?
Turkey Tracts are a series of actively managed, walk-in turkey hunting areas
across southern Michigan. With accessible walking trails and a kiosk with maps
and area information, these are great places for new hunters to explore. With
the help of hunters and partners, such as the National Wild Turkey Federation,
the DNR developed this program to highlight local wildlife management on
public hunting areas and connect hunters with local business partners. Current
sites are located in Allegan, Barry, Montcalm, Oakland, Tuscola and Washtenaw
counties. The program will be expanded to more locations in the future. Visit
Michigan.gov/Turkey for more information.
Where can I nd public hunting lands near me?
You can nd places to hunt by visiting Michigan.gov/MiHunt. You will nd an
interactive map application called Mi-HUNT to help you plan your hunting, trapping
and other outdoor recreation adventures. It is the responsibility of the users of
these maps to be aware of all regulations relevant to their hunting activities and
hunting locations. These maps show approximate boundaries of the lands open to
public hunting. For more information on Michigan’s public lands, safety zones and
other restrictions, see the current-year Michigan Hunting Regulations Summary.
What is the Hunting Access Program (HAP)?
HAP provides public hunting opportunities on private land. The DNR leases lands
from private landowners to allow public hunting. Private landowners determine
if all hunters, or youth and apprentice hunters only, may hunt on their property.
They also determine if hunters may harvest deer only, turkey only, small game
only, sharp-tailed grouse only, all legal species or a combination of any of these
options. Property owners specify the maximum number of hunters allowed on the
land at any one time. Members of the public can use HAP lands only for hunting
purposes; no other activities or recreation are permissible. For more information
on HAP lands, see the current-year Michigan Hunting Regulations Summary or visit
Michigan.gov/HAP.
GENERAL INFORMATION
26
2024 Michigan Spring Turkey Hunting Regulations Summary
Should I be concerned about dioxin?
Health assessors from the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services
and Michigan Department of Natural Resources determined that samples of
wild game from the oodplains of the Tittabawassee River and Saginaw River
downstream of Midland contained high levels of dioxin and dioxin-like compounds.
Wild game tested include deer, turkey, cottontail rabbit, squirrel, wood duck and
Canada goose. As a result, the MDHHS advises that hunters and their families to
follow these recommendations related to turkey:
• Do not eat turkey harvested in or near the oodplain of the Tittabawassee
River downstream of Midland. If you choose to eat turkey taken from this
area anyway, at a minimum the skin, liver and gizzard should be removed and
discarded.
• Other wild game that have not been tested in this area may also contain
dioxins at levels that are a concern. To reduce general dioxin exposure from
other wild game, trim any visible fat from the meat before cooking. Do not
consume organ meats such as the liver or brains, and do not eat the skin.
For additional information regarding dioxin, dioxin-like compounds and wild game
advisories for the Tittabawassee River and Saginaw River oodplains, including
a map of the area covered by these advisories, go to the MDHHS website at
Michigan.gov/Dioxin.
Should I be concerned about lead in game meat?
Turkeys shot with pellets containing lead can have particles of lead remaining in
the meat, some too small to be seen or felt. Lead can be harmful to humans and
wildlife, even in very low amounts. If you have questions about the health effects
of lead exposure from lead shot or lead fragments, call the DNR Wildlife Disease
Lab at 517-336-5030 or nd information at Michigan.gov/WDM.
You can also contact the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services at
517-241-3740 or visit Michigan.gov/MDHHS.
What if I see a sick-looking turkey while scouting or hunting?
The DNR encourages you to report any sightings of sick or dead wildlife, including
turkeys, at Michigan.gov/EyesInTheField. You should provide information about
the location, number and condition of the animals you observed. Contact the DNR
Wildlife Health Disease Laboratory at 517-336-5030 if you have any questions.
27
2024 Michigan Spring Turkey Hunting Regulations Summary
Is there a way for me to give the DNR feedback about my hunting experience?
Yes! We need your help. After your hunting season has ended, please report your
hunting activity at Michigan.gov/Turkey. Information you provide will improve
management and ensure that decisions regarding hunting seasons are based on
the best information available.
Are there any other ways I can help the DNR with feedback or reporting?
You can assist the DNR by reporting any sightings of turkeys in January. This
information, which is kept condential, is used to manage the turkey population.
You can make your report at Michigan.gov/Turkey or contact a DNR ofce listed on
the back of this publication.
What are the consequences of poaching?
Violations of turkey hunting regulations, including application violations, are
misdemeanors, and the following penalties may apply. Misdemeanors may be
punishable by up to 90 days of imprisonment, up to $1,000 in nes and license
revocation for up to ve years. Reimbursement to the state for unlawful taking of
turkey is $1,000 per animal plus an additional $1,000 for a turkey with a beard.
How do I report suspected poaching?
If you witness a natural resource violation, report it immediately. You can do this
by texting or calling 800-292-7800. Phone lines are open 24/7. You may remain
anonymous.
Contact a DNR ofce listed below or visit us online. Customer service center (CSC)
hours of operation can be found at Michigan.gov/ContactDNR.
Baraga CSC
427 U.S. 41 N.
Baraga, MI 49908
906-353-6651
Bay City CSC
3580 State Park Drive
Bay City, MI 48706
989-684-9141
Cadillac CSC
8015 Mackinaw Trail
Cadillac, MI 49601
231-775-9727
Crystal Falls Field Ofce
1420 W. U.S. 2
Crystal Falls, MI 49920
906-875-6622
Detroit Metro CSC
1801 Atwater St.
Detroit, MI 48207
313-396-6890
Escanaba CSC
6833 U.S. 2, U.S. 41
and M-35
Gladstone, MI 49837
906-786-2351
Gaylord CSC
1732 W. M-32
Gaylord, MI 49735
989-732-3541
Lansing CSC
4166 Legacy Parkway
Lansing, MI 48911
517-284-4720
Marquette CSC
1990 U.S. 41 S.
Marquette, MI 49855
906-228-6561
Naubinway Field Ofce
P.O. Box 287
W11569 U.S. 2 E.
Naubinway, MI 49762
906-477-6048
Newberry CSC
5100 M-123
Newberry, MI 49868
906-293-5131
Norway Field Ofce
520 W. U.S. 2
Norway, MI 49870
906-563-9247
Plainwell CSC
621 N. 10th St.
Plainwell, MI 49080
269-685-6851
Roscommon CSC
I-75 and M-18 S.
8717 N. Roscommon Road
Roscommon, MI 48653
989-275-5151
Sault Ste. Marie CSC
4131 S. M-129
Sault Ste. Marie, MI 49783
906-635-6161
Traverse City CSC
2122 S. M-37
Traverse City, MI 49685
231-922-5280
Find us on Facebook at Facebook.com/MichiganDNR
Follow us on X at Twitter.com/MichiganDNR
Direct DNR website URLs:
DNR hunting regulations: Michigan.gov/DNRRegs
Wildlife diseases: Michigan.gov/WildlifeDisease
Hunter education: Michigan.gov/HunterEducation
Hunting: Michigan.gov/Hunting
Invasive species: Michigan.gov/InvasiveSpecies
Mi-HUNT: Michigan.gov/MiHunt
Pure Michigan Hunt: Michigan.gov/PMH
Shooting ranges: Michigan.gov/ShootingRanges
Trapping/fur harvesting: Michigan.gov/Trapping
Michigan Department of Natural Resources
Wildlife Division
525 W. Allegan St.
P.O. Box 30444
Lansing, MI 48933
517-284-9453 (WILD)
Contact hours: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
