The Western Upper Peninsula (UP) of Michigan is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, especially hunters. Not just wildlife hunters, but nature hunters, too! Its rugged landscapes, dense forests, vast wetlands, and diverse wildlife make it an ideal location for hunting. Whether you’re pursuing whitetail deer, black bears, or rocks and mushrooms, the Porcupine Mountains and Ontonagon area offer an unmatched experience. This blog lays out hunting opportunities and tips to ensure a successful trip in our region.

Hunting Opportunities in the Western UP

The Western UP offers a wide variety of game species and natural resources, each presenting its own challenge and reward. Here’s a breakdown of the key hunting opportunities:

• Whitetail Deer: The most popular game species in Michigan, whitetail deer are abundant in the UP. The region is known for its large-bodied deer, thanks to the area’s diverse ecosystems. The thick forests and cedar swamps provide cover and food, while the expansive wilderness allows for a fair chase.
• Black Bear: The UP is prime territory for black bear hunting, and the Western UP is home to a healthy population. Bear season is carefully regulated, and hunters need to enter a lottery to receive a bear tag. The vast forests, especially around Ontonagon, are perfect habitats for these majestic animals.
• Small Game & Upland Birds: For those interested in hunting small game, the UP offers excellent opportunities for grouse, woodcock, and snowshoe hare. The region’s thick cover and wetlands create the ideal environment for bird hunting, making it popular for hunters with bird dogs.
• Waterfowl: With its many rivers, lakes, and wetlands, the UP also offers excellent waterfowl hunting. Ducks and geese migrate through the area in the fall, offering an exciting challenge for those willing to brave the elements.
• Rock Hunting: Our freshwater beaches contain a plethora of rock types from agates to yooperlites. Spend some time relaxing by Lake Superior while you look for your favorite rock type.
• Mushroom Hunting: You will find a wide variety of tree types in Ontonagon County, making for a large range of mushrooms. Common types are Lions Mane, Puffball, Chicken of the Woods, Morels, and Chanterelles.
• Fall Color Hunting:  There are many locations with overlooks where you can see miles of autumn colors. The highest point in the Porcupine Mountains is Summit Peak. A more accessible lookout is Lake of the Clouds.

Best Time for Hunting

The hunting seasons in the Western UP vary depending on the hobby and species:

• Deer Season: The firearm season for deer typically runs from mid-November, while archery season spans from October through mid-November and then again from December to January.
• Bear Season: Bear hunting typically opens in early September, with the hunting period determined by the lottery.
• Small Game & Birds: Grouse season begins in mid-September and runs through the end of November. Woodcock hunting usually occurs from late September to early November.
• Waterfowl Season: Waterfowl season generally opens in October, with dates varying each year based on the migration.
• Rock Hunting: The two best times to see the most rocks are early spring and late fall. At the end of the fall season, rocks have been tossed around and settle on the shores of Lake Superior.
• Mushroom Hunting: Spring and fall are the best time to forage for mushrooms. In the fall you will find Chicken of the Woods, Chanterelle, Oyster, Black Trumpet, and Lobster.
• Fall Color Hunting: These colors only appear in the fall. Peak autumn colors are usually around the end of September to the middle or end of October.

Check the Michigan DNR website for the most up-to-date season dates and regulations.

Terrain and What to Expect

The Western UP is characterized by its rugged terrain and dense forests, which can be both beautiful and challenging. From rocky hillsides to swampy lowlands, hunters need to be prepared for tough hikes, unpredictable weather, and challenging shooting conditions.

• Forest Types: Expect to find a mix of hardwood forests, conifers, and aspen stands. This diverse forest composition provides an excellent habitat for a variety of game animals and mushrooms.
• Weather: Be prepared for variable weather, especially in the fall. The UP is notorious for sudden snowstorms, rain, and chilly mornings that can turn into warm afternoons. Layered clothing and good-quality gear are essential for comfort and safety.

Hunting Tips for the Western UP

• Scout Early: Given the vastness of the Western UP, scouting early and often is crucial. Look for well-used deer trails, signs of bear activity, and areas with dense cover for grouse or other small game.
• Use Topographical Maps: Familiarize yourself with the landscape by studying maps and using GPS devices. Certain areas do not have cellphone service, so be prepared for that situation. The area’s rugged terrain can be disorienting, so having a good sense of direction and terrain is crucial.
• Pack for Success: The remoteness of the Western UP means hunters need to be self-sufficient. Bring plenty of food, water, and safety gear. It’s also wise to pack emergency supplies such as a fire starter, first-aid kit, and extra clothing.
• Patience with Weather: Weather can change rapidly in the UP. It’s not uncommon to experience snow in early November or rainstorms in September. Patience and preparedness are key to success. Keep an eye on the weather to see if there have been recent rain storms. Storms help mushrooms fruit and bring new rocks to the beaches. They also blow all the colorful leaves off the trees.

Regulations and Licensing

Before heading into the field, make sure you’re up to date on all Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) regulations. Some important things to note:

• Licenses: Hunters must have the appropriate licenses for the game they are pursuing. Combination licenses for deer (covering both archery and firearm) are available, along with specific licenses for bear, small game, and waterfowl.
• Bear Tags: As mentioned, bear hunting is regulated through a lottery system. Make sure to apply well in advance if you plan on pursuing black bears.
• Hunter Safety Course: Michigan requires all hunters born after January 1, 1960, to complete a hunter safety course before purchasing a hunting license.
• Rock Collecting Limit: People can collect 25 pounds of rocks per year per person in Michigan.
• Mushroom Laws: You can pick morel mushrooms in State Parks and on state land but you can not sell them. To sell morels picked in the wild, you must be a certified mushroom expert.

The Michigan DNR website offers a full breakdown of regulations, hunting seasons, and application deadlines.

Local Resources and Lodging

Many hunters base themselves in small towns like Ontonagon which offers hunting-friendly accommodations. Our community is known for its hospitality and often caters to hunters during the season. If you’re hunting with an ATV or snowmobile (depending on the season), the Western UP’s trail systems make it easy to cover a lot of ground. Ontonagon County has plenty of beaches to find rocks, forests to find mushrooms, vistas to hunt fall colors, and public land for hunting game.

The Western Upper Peninsula of Michigan offers an extraordinary hunting experience. There is vast wilderness, abundant wildlife, lots of natural resources, and welcoming communities. Our region promises adventure, challenge, and the opportunity to connect with nature. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or a newcomer, the Western UP has something special to offer.