Hunting Season by State

Michigan Muzzleloader Deer Season 2026-27

Opens in 68 days

Michigan's muzzleloader deer season runs December 4–6, 2026 in the Upper Peninsula.

Last verified September 25, 2026Michigan wildlife agency

Zones & dates

  • Upper Peninsula

    Muzzleloader

    Opens in 68 days
    Opens
    December 4, 2026
    Closes
    December 6, 2026
    Bag limit
    Lower Peninsula has a December firearm season on the same dates

Michigan's muzzleloader season is restricted to single-shot, front-loading muzzleloading firearms. Ignition type (flintlock vs. percussion/inline), sight and optic allowances, and any minimum caliber requirements are set by the wildlife agency and can differ from the archery or firearm seasons. Confirm current equipment rules with Michigan's wildlife agency before you hunt.

Tags and antlerless rules during muzzleloader season

Tag allowances and antlerless-only windows vary by zone and by segment within Michigan's deer season — some of the dates in the table above are antlerless-only, while others allow either sex. Review each zone row for its specific rules, and confirm current tag limits, antler-point restrictions, and any special antlerless permits required for the muzzleloader season with Michigan's wildlife agency.

How muzzleloader overlaps other seasons

Michigan's muzzleloader season is a short, three-day Upper Peninsula-only window (December 4–6) that runs at the same time as the Lower Peninsula's late antlerless firearm season, rather than as a separate statewide segment.

What changed for 2026-27

Season dates are set annually by Michigan's wildlife agency and can shift from year to year based on herd surveys, weather, and management goals. The dates above reflect the official 2026–27 season as published by the Michigan wildlife agency; check the source link above for any addenda issued after publication, and always reverify before you hunt.

Frequently asked questions

December 4–6, 2026, in the Upper Peninsula.

Nearby states

Regulations change every year and can vary by county or unit. Hunting Season by State is a reference tool, not a substitute for the official regulation book — always verify dates, zones, and bag limits with the state wildlife agency before you hunt.