Thousands will head outdoors for firearm deer hunting season, November 15 - 30, in Michigan.

Take a region-by-region look at Michigan deer hunting prospects in 2013.

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources takes an annual look at deer hunting prospects in Michigan.

Here are some regional highlights for 2013:

 

 

 

UPPER PENINSULA

In general, hunters should expect to see fewer deer, especially in the younger age classes
(fawns and yearlings) but still expect to see a decent number of 2 ½ and 3½ year old
bucks this fall.

NORTHERN LOWER PENINSULA

The deer population for the Northern Lower Peninsula (NLP) is expected to be higher than
last year. The late start to winter made it possible for deer to come out of winter in fair to
good conditions despite the extended winter months that went into late April.

SOUTHERN LOWER PENINSULA

Abundant food and cover in the form of agricultural crops and scattered swamps and
woodlots provide very good habitat across much of the southern Michigan landscape. This
high quality habitat, combined with relatively mild winter conditions, results in a productive deer population. Southern Michigan has the overall highest deer densities in the state, but the SLP deer population has been stable to decreasing over the last 5 to 10 years. The Department has desired to reduce deer numbers in much of the region while still maintaining suitable densities to provide ample hunting opportunities.

Last winter's weather created a positive effect for some areas and negative effect for others.

Good luck, hunters! Stay safe!

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