Spring has arrived, and with spring turkey hunting season and many fishing seasons opening soon – and 2015 licenses on sale now – the Department of Natural Resources reminds hunters, anglers and ORV riders of changes to Michigan’s license structure that took effect just over a year ago.
The new license structure makes buying a license easier and provides vital funding to improve outdoor recreation opportunities.
Some things for hunters, anglers and ORV riders to keep in mind when buying licenses:
A base license is required for all hunters every year. In addition to providing critical funding for wildlife conservation and management, the base license allows hunters to hunt small game and purchase additional hunting licenses for other species. See more information about hunting licenses.
Anglers no longer need to choose between restricted and all-species fishing licenses. All fishing licenses are good for all species. See more information about fishing licenses.
An ORV trail permit is required, in addition to the ORV license, for riding on state-designated trails, routes and scramble areas. See more information about ORV licenses.
Outdoor enthusiasts can purchase a hunt/fish combo license that includes a base license, a deer combo license (two tags) and an all-species fishing license.
A single deer license, valid throughout archery, firearm and muzzleloader seasons, replaces the separate archery and firearm licenses. The deer combo license remains available for hunters who wish to harvest two bucks.
Additional funding from the new license structure enables the DNR and its partners to provide better hunting and fishing opportunities through improved habitat; a first-rate ORV trail network, providing enhanced riding opportunities and benefiting local economies; increased protection of natural resources and a safer outdoor recreation experience by putting more conservation officers in the field; and expanded outreach and education for new and existing hunters and anglers.
To learn more about how these license changes benefit hunters, anglers and ORV riders, watch this short video about the new license structure.
For more information – including license prices, frequently asked questions and details about how license dollars are being invested – visit www.michigan.gov/dnr and click on “hunting, fishing and ORV license structure” under “In the Know.”
