DNR says safety is key to every successful hunt; report deer harvest on app or online

With Michigan’s firearm deer season that started Wednesday, Nov. 15, 2023 the DNR reminds everyone to put safety first.

Lt. Tom Wanless, who heads the DNR’s recreational safety, education and enforcement section, said that although some tips seem like common sense, it’s critical for anyone hunting with firearms to consider safety basics.

“Success is not always about filling your tag, it’s about safely enjoying the experience and sharing it with friends and family after the hunt,” Wanless said.

All hunters should: Treat every firearm as if it is loaded; be aware of your surroundings – know your target and what is beyond it; unload firearms when crossing obstacles and/or getting in or out of an elevated stand; obey “no trespassing” signs - they are there for a reason; obtain landowner permission to retrieve game that has wandered onto private property; wear “hunter orange” to increase your visibility to other hunters. Hunter orange garments (such as caps, hats, vests or jackets), including camouflage, must be at least 50% hunter orange and be visible from all directions.

During hunting seasons, the DNR strongly encourages nonhunters to wear bright colors, especially hunter orange, and be aware of their surroundings near woods or fields where hunting may occur.

Get more hunting and tree stand safety tips at Michigan.gov/HuntingSafety, and season and regulation details in the 2023 DNR Hunting Regulations Summary.

For more information on all hunting opportunities, visit Michigan.gov/DNR.

Report deer harvest online

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources reminds hunters across the state that deer harvest reporting is once again required this hunting season. Now in its second year, mandatory harvest reporting of all deer is designed to provide the most efficient and effective data for deer management and conservation.

“We know Michigan’s deer hunters care about quality hunting opportunities and healthy deer herds,” said DNR deer, elk and moose management specialist Chad Stewart. “Each online harvest report takes just a few minutes but provides critical information about hunting experiences and deer abundance all over the state. That means better management recommendations for Michigan’s deer population.”

To facilitate the reporting process and ensure a smooth experience, download the Michigan DNR Hunt Fish app.

Other tips are: Have your hunting license/kill tag number ready. Taking a picture of the tag with a smartphone can provide a helpful reference. Record the confirmation number; write it down or capture a screen shot for your records.

Hunters also have the option to report their harvest online by using a computer or mobile device to access the reporting webpage at Michigan.gov/DNRHarvestReport. To begin the report, enter your hunting license/kill tag license number and your date of birth.

For more information, visit the DNR deer harvest reporting webpage. If you require assistance or have questions, contact your local DNR customer service center or the main DNR Wildlife Division line at 517-284-WILD (9453) during normal business hours, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.