2022

Michigan
Waterfowl Digest

Reserved hunt application period: Aug. 1-28, 2022

RAP (Report All Poaching): Call or text 800-292-7800
 Table of Contents

Waterfowl Management......................................................................................... 3
Managing Waterfowl...............................................................................................3
Waterfowl Monitoring..............................................................................................4
The Citizens Waterfowl Advisory Committee (CWAC)............................................4
Michigan Waterfowl Hunting License....................................................................4
Federal Migratory Bird Hunting Stamp..................................................................4
Michigan Waterfowl Stamp Program ....................................................................5
2022 Waterfowl Hunting........................................................................................ 6
Hunting Seasons and Bag Limits...........................................................................6
Daily and Possession Limits for Ducks, Mergansers and Geese.........................8
South Zone – Local Goose Management Units (GMU) ........................................9
Early Teal Season..................................................................................................10
Managed Waterfowl Hunt Areas......................................................................... 12
Youth Waterfowl Hunting Weekend......................................................................14
Veterans and Active-Duty U.S. Military Personnel Waterfowl Hunting Days..... 15
Veterans Preference Drawings at Managed Waterfowl Hunt Areas..................16
2022 Reserved Waterfowl Hunt Drawing........................................................... 18
How to Apply for a Limited-License Hunt............................................................ 19
2022 Reserved Waterfowl Hunt Choices........................................................... 20
License Purchase................................................................................................. 22
Base License Purchase....................................................................................... 22
Michigan Waterfowl Hunting License................................................................. 23
Harvest Information Program (HIP) .....................................................................24
Federal Migratory Bird Hunting Stamp................................................................24
Apprentice Hunting...............................................................................................24
Mentored Youth Hunting...................................................................................... 25
Hunting Zones and Time Zones ......................................................................... 25
Hunting Hours...................................................................................................... 26
Waterfowl Hunting at State Parks and Recreation Areas.................................. 30
Joint State-Federal Migratory Bird Hunting Regulations....................................31
Falconry Season................................................................................................... 34
Nontoxic Shot Rules............................................................................................. 35
Float Hunting ....................................................................................................... 35
Safety Zones Around Buildings........................................................................... 35
Waterfowl Hunting Closures................................................................................ 35
Identifying Ducks.................................................................................................. 36
Leg-band Reporting............................................................................................. 36
Hunter Surveys..................................................................................................... 36
General Information.............................................................................................36
Commercial Hunting Guides on Public Land...................................................... 36
Aquatic Invasive Species .....................................................................................37
Dioxin Advisory Information................................................................................. 38
Avian Influenza .................................................................................................... 38
General Precautions When Processing Waterfowl............................................. 38
Commercial Processor Registration.................................................................... 39
Poachers Beware: Hunters are Watching .......................................................... 39
WATERFOWL MANAGEMENT

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is committed to

the conservation, protection, management, use and enjoyment
of the state’s natural and cultural resources for current and future
generations.

The Michigan Natural Resources Commission is a seven-member

public body whose members are appointed by the governor and
subject to the advice and consent of the Senate. The NRC has
exclusive authority to regulate the taking of game and sportfish.
The commission conducts monthly, public meetings in locations
throughout Michigan. Citizens are encouraged to become actively
involved in these public forums. For more information visit
Michigan.gov/NRC.

NOTICE: This brochure is not a legal notice or a complete collection

of hunting regulations and laws. It is a condensed digest issued
for hunters’ convenience. Copies of wildlife conservation
orders, which contain complete listings of regulations and legal
descriptions, are available at Michigan.gov/DNRLaws.

Managing Waterfowl
Migratory game bird management in the U.S. is a cooperative effort between state
and federal governments. Migratory bird treaties with Canada and Mexico govern
the management of migratory birds in the U.S., distinguishing those species that
can be hunted from those that cannot and establishing limits on hunting season
dates and lengths. Authority lies with the federal governments in the respective
countries. For waterfowl management, the U.S. and Canada are divided into four
flyways: the Atlantic, Mississippi, Central and Pacific (Michigan lies within the
Mississippi flyway). In the U.S., the flyway councils, consisting of representatives
from state and provincial game management agencies, recommend regulations to
the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for waterfowl and for most migratory, shore and
upland game birds.
Flyway technical committees, consisting of state and provincial biologists, advise
the councils. These technical committees evaluate species and population status,
harvest and hunter-participation data during the development of the council
recommendations. The FWS evaluates the council recommendations, considering
species status and biology, cumulative effects of regulations and existing regulatory
policy, and develops final regulations. (Content modified from Flyways.us).
Once final federal regulations are known, the Michigan Department of Natural
Resources analyzes population and migration data, studies hunter opinions and
Continued 

Stay on top of the latest news from the Michigan DNR!

Visit us at Michigan.gov/DNR to sign up for email updates.
2022 Waterfowl Digest 3
WATERFOWL MANAGEMENT

meets with the Citizens Waterfowl Advisory Committee. The DNR uses the input
from the CWAC and from hunters across the state to develop recommendations
for waterfowl hunting seasons that are presented to the Natural Resources
Commission. The NRC then makes the final decisions for waterfowl hunting
regulations in Michigan. Visit Michigan.gov/DNR/About/Boards/CWAC for more
information about the CWAC.

Waterfowl Monitoring
Population surveys and monitoring programs are critical parts of successful
waterfowl management in North America. Results from these surveys are crucial
inputs for many waterfowl population models and are used to help guide biologists
in setting and evaluating harvest management and habitat management
programs. For more information on waterfowl monitoring, please visit
Michigan.gov/Waterfowl and click on “Setting Regulations for Waterfowl –
Management and Status.”

The Citizens Waterfowl Advisory Committee (CWAC)

CWAC is a 20-member group made up of 13 at-large members and seven major
waterfowl hunting organizations. The CWAC mission is to provide feedback to
the DNR on existing and proposed waterfowl regulations and waterfowl hunting
issues. CWAC members are charged with presenting views and concerns that
represent stakeholders from their areas of the state or their organization and
disseminating information learned at CWAC meetings back to those stakeholders.
For more information about CWAC, its members, and how to apply, visit
Michigan.gov/DNR/About/Boards/CWAC.

Michigan Waterfowl Hunting License

When you purchase a waterfowl hunting license, you are also contributing to
wetland conservation in Michigan. Nine dollars of each license goes directly
toward protection, restoration and enhancement of wetlands and other lands to
be managed for the benefit of waterfowl. An additional $1.93 of every license is
used to operate, maintain and develop managed waterfowl areas in Michigan.

Federal Migratory Bird Hunting Stamp

A federal migratory bird hunting stamp (commonly referred to as a federal duck
stamp) is required to hunt waterfowl. Money generated by the sale of federal
duck stamps goes directly into protecting wetland habitat in the National Wildlife
Refuge System. The federal duck stamp is considered one of the most successful
conservation programs ever. For more information, visit FWS.gov/DuckStamps.

4 2022 Waterfowl Digest

 Michigan Waterfowl Stamp Program

Who coordinates the Michigan Waterfowl Stamp Program?

Michigan’s Waterfowl Stamp Program is coordinated by the Michigan Duck
Hunters Association, a nonprofit organization dedicated to waterfowl and wetland
conservation, in partnership with the DNR.
How are funds from the Michigan Waterfowl Stamp Program used?
Proceeds from stamp sales will be used to fund MDHA projects, with 10 percent
used to match DNR funding for purchasing wetlands.
Who designed the 2022 Michigan waterfowl stamp and print?
John Brennan created the artwork for the 2022 Michigan waterfowl stamp and
print. The stamp features a pair of hooded mergansers.
Do I have to purchase a Michigan waterfowl stamp?
No. Purchase of this stamp is voluntary, and you do not need it to hunt in Michigan.
MDHA will mail waterfowl hunters a free copy of the standard-edition stamp
(subject to availability) if they send a self-addressed, stamped envelope with a copy
of their Michigan waterfowl hunting license to MDHA Waterfowl Stamp Program,
P.O. Box 186, Kawkawlin, MI 48631.
How do I purchase a Michigan waterfowl stamp or print?
First, go to Michigan.gov/Waterfowl and scroll down to “Additional resources,” then
click on “Michigan Waterfowl Stamp Program” to print an order form. You can mail
your order form to MDHA Waterfowl Stamp Program, P.O. Box 186, Kawkawlin, MI
48631.
How long will it take to receive my stamp or print?
You should receive your stamp or print in four to six weeks.

2022 Waterfowl Digest 5

2022 WATERFOWL HUNTING

Hunting Seasons and Bag Limits

Zone Species Season Dates Daily Bag Possession Notes
Limits Limits

North Zone Ducks Sept. 24 – Nov. 20 and 6 18 a, b

Nov. 26-27

North Zone Coots Sept. 24 – Nov. 20 and 15 45 b

Nov. 26-27

North Zone Mergansers Sept. 24 – Nov. 20 and 5 15 a, b

Nov. 26-27

North Zone Dark goose Sept. 1 – Dec. 16 5 15 c

(Canada,
brant and
white-fronted)

North Zone Light goose Sept. 1 – Dec. 16 20 60

(snow, blue
and Ross’s)

Middle Zone Ducks Oct. 8 – Dec. 4 and Dec. 6 18 a, b

17-18

Middle Zone Coots Oct. 8 – Dec. 4 and Dec. 15 45 b

17-18

Middle Zone Mergansers Oct. 8 – Dec. 4 and Dec. 5 15 a, b

17-18
Middle Zone Dark goose Sept. 1-30 and Oct. 8 – 5 15 c
(Canada, Dec. 23
brant and
white-fronted)

Middle Zone Light goose Sept. 1-30 and Oct. 8 – 20 60

(snow, blue Dec. 23
and Ross’s)
South Zone Ducks Oct. 15 – Dec. 11 and Dec. 6 18 a,b
31 – Jan. 1
South Zone Coots Oct. 15 – Dec. 11 and Dec. 15 45 b
31 – Jan. 1
South Zone Mergansers Oct. 15 – Dec. 11 and Dec. 5 15 a,b
31 – Jan. 1
South Zone Dark goose Sept. 1-30, Oct. 15 – Dec. 5 15 c
(Canada, 11, Dec. 31 – Jan. 8 and
brant and Feb. 4-13, excluding some
white-fronted) GMUs (see South Zone –
Local Goose Management
Units (GMU) section.)

6 2022 Waterfowl Digest

South Zone Light goose Sept. 1-30, Oct. 15 – Dec. 20 60
(snow, blue 11, Dec. 31 – Jan. 8 and
and Ross’s) Feb. 4-13, excluding some
GMUs (see South Zone –
Local Goose Management
Units (GMU) section.)

Statewide Early teal Sept. 1-16 (see Early Teal 6 18

Season section.)
Statewide Wilson’s snipe Sept. 1 – Nov. 9 8 24 b

Statewide Virginia rail Sept. 1 – Nov. 9 25 75 b

and sora rail
Statewide Common Sept. 1 – Nov. 9 1 3 b
gallinules

a. See Possession Limits for Ducks, Mergansers and Geese section.

b. See the Veterans and Active-Duty U.S. Military Personnel Waterfowl Hunting Days
section and Youth Waterfowl Hunting Weekend section for requirements.
c. The dark goose aggregate daily bag limit for Canada geese, white-fronted geese and
brant is five, only one of which can be a brant. (Note also applies to the South Zone
Zone Local GMUs. See the South Zone - Local Goose Management Units (GMU)
section.)

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2022 WATERFOWL HUNTING

Daily and Possession Limits for Ducks, Mergansers

and Geese

What is the daily bag limit for ducks and mergansers?

The daily bag limit is six ducks of any species. No more than four may be mallards
(no more than two of which may be hens), no more than three wood ducks, two
redheads, two canvasbacks, two black ducks, one pintail, and one or two scaup
(depending on season date – see table below). In addition to the duck limit,
hunters may take five mergansers, only two of which may be hooded mergansers.
The possession limit is three times the daily limit for ducks and mergansers. As
part of the total daily limit for ducks as described above, the daily limit for scaup
for the zones and dates specified is as follows:

Zone Dates Daily Limit

North Zone Sept. 24 – Nov. 7 No more than 2
scaup
North Zone Nov. 8-20 and Nov. 26-27 No more than 1
scaup
Middle Zone Oct. 8-23 No more than 1
scaup
Middle Zone Oct. 24 – Dec. 4 and Dec. 17-18 No more than 2
scaup
South Zone Oct. 15-30 No more than 1
scaup
South Zone Oct. 31 – Dec. 11 and No more than 2
Dec. 31 – Jan. 1 scaup

What is the daily bag limit for dark geese?

Canada geese, white-fronted geese (or specklebellies) and brant are part of a
dark goose aggregate daily bag limit. For the entire goose season, the daily bag
limit for Canada geese, white-fronted geese and brant is five in any combination,
only one of which can be a brant. The possession limit is three times the daily limit
for dark geese.
What is the daily bag limit for light geese?
Snow geese, blue-phase snow geese and Ross’s geese are part of a light goose
aggregate daily bag limit. For the entire goose season, the daily bag limit for light
geese is 20 in any combination. The possession limit is three times the daily limit
for light geese.

8 2022 Waterfowl Digest

 South Zone – Local Goose Management Units (GMU)
Season dates differ from the South Zone goose season dates listed in the Hunting
Seasons and Bag Limits section for Allegan County and Muskegon County
Wastewater System GMUs.
GMU Species Season Dates Daily Bag Possession Notes
Limits Limits

Allegan County Dark goose Sept. 1-30, Nov. 5-13, 5 15 c

GMU (Canada, Nov. 26 – Dec. 4 and
brant and Dec. 17 – Feb. 13
white-fronted)
Allegan County Light goose Sept. 1-30, Nov. 5-13, 20 60
GMU (snow, blue Nov. 26 – Dec. 4 and
and Ross’s) Dec. 17 – Feb. 13

Muskegon Dark goose Oct. 15 – Dec. 22 5 15 c

County (Canada,
Wastewater brant and
System GMU white-fronted)

Muskegon Light goose Oct. 15 – Dec. 22 20 60

County (snow, blue
Wastewater and Ross’s
System GMU

c. The dark goose aggregate daily bag limit for Canada geese, white-fronted
geese and brant is five, only one of which can be a brant.

Muskegon County Wastewater System GMU

2022 Waterfowl Digest 9

2022 WATERFOWL HUNTING

Allegan County GMU

Fennville Farm Unit of the Allegan State Game Area is closed to goose hunting
Sept. 1-30, and Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from Dec. 17 – Feb. 13.
The Fennville Farm Unit will be open to goose hunting by self-registration Nov.
5-13 and Nov. 26 – Dec. 4; and open by drawings on Saturday, Sunday and
Wednesday from Dec. 17 – Feb. 13. Drawings are held at 5:30 a.m. with hunting
permitted from shooting time in the morning until 4 p.m. Leftover zones will be
reissued until 11 a.m.

Early Teal Season

Which species can be hunted during the early teal season?
Only blue-winged and green-winged teal may be hunted during the early teal
season. Hunters are strongly encouraged to refresh their duck identification skills
for this season. Do not shoot if you are not sure of your target.
When is the early teal season?
The season runs from Sept. 1-16, statewide.
What is the daily bag limit and possession limit during the early teal season?
The daily bag limit is six teal, and the possession limit is 18 teal.
What are some tips for teal hunting?
Here are a few teal hunting tips:
• Decoys will easily attract teal, so use them to bring birds in closer to aid in
identification.
• Pass shooting is not recommended.
• Teal prefer shallow waters and areas along shallow margins of ponds and
lakes.
• Look for areas with lots of mud flats and sparse vegetation.
• Avoid forested wetlands, where you are likely to encounter wood ducks.

10 2022 Waterfowl Digest

What time of day can I hunt teal?
Teal can be hunted from sunrise to sunset. See the table below for early teal
season shooting hours for time zone A. (See Hunting Zones and Time Zones
section for time zone A location information.)

Date Time Zone A Time Zone A

a.m. p.m.
Sept. 1 6:57 8:06
Sept. 2 6:59 8:04
Sept. 3 7:00 8:03
Sept. 4 7:01 8:01
Sept. 5 7:02 7:59
Sept. 6 7:03 7:58
Sept. 7 7:04 7:56
Sept. 8 7:05 7:54
Sept. 9 7:06 7:52
Sept. 10 7:07 7:51
Sept. 11 7:08 7:49
Sept. 12 7:09 7:47
Sept. 13 7:10 7:45
Sept. 14 7:11 7:44
Sept. 15 7:12 7:42
Sept. 16 7:13 7:40

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2022 WATERFOWL HUNTING

Managed Waterfowl Hunt Areas

What is a managed waterfowl hunt area, and where are they located?
Managed waterfowl hunt areas, or Wetland Wonders, offer first-class waterfowl
hunting and wildlife viewing opportunities. There are seven premier managed
waterfowl hunt areas located in southern Michigan. Daily drawings are conducted
locally for free hunting-zone permits throughout the season (see drawing dates
and times in the tables on the following pages).
What equipment should I bring to a managed waterfowl hunt area?
Use of waders, decoys, calls, retrievers, and small boats and motors is
recommended.
Are there special rules at managed waterfowl hunt areas?
Yes. Special rules are enforced, including shell limits, shot size limits, hunting
party size, etc. For more information, visit Michigan.gov/WetlandWonders.
Are managed waterfowl hunt area drawings ever canceled?
Normal managed-area drawings may be canceled late in the season if extreme
weather results in low hunter participation. Area managers will post amended
check-station hunting rules a minimum of two days prior to any changes. Late in
the season, hunters may wish to call area headquarters to verify that drawings will
be held.
Do managed waterfowl hunt areas hold waterfowl reserved hunts?
Yes. Some hunts during the opening weekend of duck season are by reservation;
see 2022 Reserved Waterfowl Hunt Choices section for application information.

12 2022 Waterfowl Digest

Area, County and Phone Youth Hunting Drawing Dates and Times
Nearest Town Dates
Fennville Farm (Allegan 269-561-2258 Dec. 17 (a.m.) Morning hunts: Wednesdays,
County, Fennville) nonreserved Saturdays and Sundays from Dec.
17 – Feb. 13. Drawing at 5:30 a.m.
Dec. 31 (a.m.)
Leftover zones will be reissued
nonreserved
until 11 a.m. Permits valid until
4 p.m.
Afternoon hunts: No afternoon
draws.
Closed: Closed for goose hunting
Sept. 1-30.
No drawings on Mondays,
Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays
from Dec. 17 – Feb. 13.
Self-registration available for goose
hunting outside of drawing dates
from Nov. 5-13 and Nov. 26 – Dec.
4 at the Fennville Farm Unit office.
Self-registration available for duck
hunting outside of drawing dates
at the Fennville Farm Unit office
during South Zone duck season.

Fish Point (Tuscola County, 989-674-2511 Oct. 8 (p.m.) Morning hunts: Daily at 5:30 a.m.
Unionville) reserved (Reserved hunt first and second
weekend of duck season.)
Nov. 5 (p.m.)
nonreserved Afternoon hunts: Daily at 11 a.m.
(Reserved hunt first and second
weekend of duck season.)

Muskegon County 231-788-5055 Oct. 29 (a.m. and Morning hunts: Tuesdays and
Resource Recovery Center Call for opening p.m.) nonreserved Saturdays at 5:30 a.m..
(Muskegon County, Twin dates Afternoon hunts: Thursdays and
Lake) Saturdays at 11 a.m.
Hunts continue through November;
no longer closed Nov. 15-30.
Permits for Tuesday morning
drawings are valid until close of
shooting hours.

Nayanquing Point (Bay 989-697-5101 Oct. 8 (p.m.) Morning hunts: Daily at 5:30 a.m.
County, Linwood) reserved (Reserved hunt first and second
weekend of duck season.)
Oct. 22 (p.m.)
nonreserved Afternoon hunts: Daily at 11 a.m.
(Reserved hunt first and second
weekend of duck season.)

2022 Waterfowl Digest 13

2022 WATERFOWL HUNTING

Pointe Mouillee (Wayne 734-379-9692 Oct. 15 (p.m.) Morning hunts: Sundays, Thursdays
County, Rockwood) reserved and Oct. 15 at 5:30 a.m. (Reserved
hunt opening weekend of duck
Nov. 6 (a.m.)
season.)
nonreserved
Afternoon hunts: Sundays,
Tuesdays and Oct. 15 at 11 a.m.
(Reserved hunt opening weekend
of duck season.)
Permits for Thursday morning
drawings are valid until close of
shooting hours.
Shiawassee River (Saginaw 989-865-6211 Oct. 15 (p.m.) Morning hunts: Daily at 5 a.m.
County, St. Charles) reserved (Reserved hunt first and second
weekend of duck season.)
Nov. 5 (p.m.)
nonreserved Afternoon hunts: Daily at 11 a.m.
(Reserved hunt first and second
weekend of duck season.)

St. Clair Flats (Harsens 810-748-9504 Oct. 15 (p.m.) Morning hunts: Daily at 5:30 a.m.
Island, St. Clair County, reserved (Reserved hunt first and second
Algonac) weekend of duck season.)
Nov. 4 (p.m.)
nonreserved Afternoon hunts: Daily at 11:30
a.m. (Reserved hunt first and
second weekend of duck season.)

Shiawassee National 989-777-5930 Oct. 29 (a.m.) Morning hunts: Tuesdays,

Wildlife Refuge (Saginaw nonreserved Saturdays and Sundays at 5:30
County, Saginaw) a.m.
Afternoon hunts: Thursdays at
noon
Note: Please go to fws.gov/refuge/
shiawassee prior to your hunt to
see updates and refuge-specific
regulations.
There will not be a reserved hunt
at Shiawassee NWR for the 2022
season.

Youth Waterfowl Hunting Weekend

When is the Youth Waterfowl Hunting Weekend?
The Youth Waterfowl Hunting Weekend will be Sept. 17-18, statewide, for properly
licensed youth 16 years old and younger.
Which licenses do I need to hunt the Youth Waterfowl Hunting Weekend?
You will need a base license, an apprentice base license or a mentored youth
license. If you are 16 years old, you also need to have a waterfowl license and a
federal duck stamp.

14 2022 Waterfowl Digest

I am a youth waterfowl hunter under 16 years old. Do I have to hunt with an
adult?
Yes. If you are 10-16 years old, you must be accompanied by a parent, guardian or
someone 18 years of age or older designated by your parent or guardian. If you are
under 10 years old, you must be accompanied by an adult 21 years of age or older,
and the adult must meet all the provisions of the Mentored Youth Hunting Program.
I am a youth waterfowl hunter hunting with an apprentice license. Do I have to
hunt with an adult?
Yes. Youth who are hunting with a base apprentice license must be accompanied
by an adult 21 years old or older who has a nonapprentice base license and a
waterfowl license.
What can I hunt during the Youth Waterfowl Hunting Weekend?
Ducks, mergansers, geese, coots and common gallinules may be harvested;
accompanying adults are not permitted to harvest these species during the hunt
unless hunting during the September portion of the Canada goose hunting season.
The daily limits and species restrictions are the same as those allowed in the
regular waterfowl hunting season.

Veterans and Active-Duty U.S. Military Personnel

Waterfowl Hunting Days

When will these days take place?

The Veterans and Active-Duty U.S. Military Personnel Waterfowl Hunting Days will
take place statewide Sept. 17 -18, concurrently with the Youth Waterfowl Hunting
Weekend.
What documentation do I need to hunt?
Participating veterans and active-duty U.S military personnel are required to have
documentation afield and must present it upon request of a Michigan conservation
officer, tribal conservation officer or any law enforcement officer. The following
documentation will be accepted as proof of status: military ID, leave papers,
duty papers, military orders, copy of DD Form 214, enhanced driver’s license or
documentation from the Veterans Administration regarding disability status.
Which licenses do I need to hunt?
You must have a base license, a waterfowl license and a federal duck stamp.
What can I hunt during the Veterans and Active-Duty U.S. Military Personnel
Waterfowl Hunting Days?
Ducks, mergansers, geese, coots and common gallinules may be harvested. The
daily limits and species restrictions are the same as those allowed in the regular
waterfowl hunting season.

2022 Waterfowl Digest 15

2022 WATERFOWL HUNTING

Veterans Preference Drawings at Managed Waterfowl

Hunt Areas

When will these drawings take place?

Veterans preference drawings at the following managed waterfowl areas will take
place Nov. 10 or Nov. 11, for properly licensed resident active-duty U.S. military
personnel and veterans. There will not be a veterans preference drawing at
Fennville Farm.
• Fish Point – Nov. 11.
• Harsens Island – Nov. 11.
• Muskegon County Resource Recovery Center – Nov. 10.
• Nayanquing Point – Nov. 11.
• Pointe Mouillee – Nov. 10.
• Shiawassee River – Nov. 11.
• Shiawassee National Wildlife Refuge – Nov. 11.
What documentation do I need to hunt during the veterans preference
drawings?
The following documentation, along with a valid Michigan driver’s license or voter
registration card, will be accepted as proof of status: military ID, leave papers,
duty papers, military orders, copy of DD Form 214, enhanced driver’s license or
documentation from the Veterans Administration regarding disability status. If you
were discharged from the Army or Air Force National Guard, you may provide a
copy of NGB Form 22 or NGB Form 23.
Which licenses do I need for the veterans preference drawings?
You need a base license, a waterfowl license and a federal duck stamp.
Which parties will be eligible for the veterans preference drawing?
To be eligible for the veterans preference draw, single hunters must be active-duty
military personnel or veterans; party hunters must have at least one member in
their party who is active-duty military or a veteran.

16 2022 Waterfowl Digest

2022 Waterfowl Digest 17
2022 WATERFOWL HUNTING

2022 Reserved Waterfowl Hunt Drawing

How many licenses can I apply for?
From Aug. 1-28, you can apply once for the reserved waterfowl hunt drawing. You
must be at least 10 years of age or have a mentored youth license to apply.
Do I need to have a base license or waterfowl license before applying?
No. You may apply prior to obtaining your licenses.
How much is an application?
Applications are $5.
What happens if I am selected in the drawing?
If you are selected in the drawing, you will be eligible to hunt during the opening
weekend at the location, date and time assigned to you. If you are successful, you
will be required to purchase the following licenses based on your age.

9 and younger 10 - 15 16 and older

Mentored youth Base license and migratory bird Base license,
license and youth (HIP endorsement) waterfowl hunting
migratory bird youth license and federal
(HIP endorsement) migratory bird hunting
stamp

Hunting conditions (e.g., water levels, crop conditions) may vary, and hunters
are encouraged to call area headquarters for the most up-to-date conditions.
Managed waterfowl hunt areas enforce special rules (e.g., shell limits, shot sizes,
use of motion-winged decoys). Consult area maps or contact area headquarters
for information.
Where can I buy a license?
You can buy a license from a license agent or online at Michigan.gov/
DNRLicenses. Find a license agent at Michigan.gov/DNRLicenseAgents. To avoid
delays at check stations, hunters are urged to purchase all licenses in advance of
their reserved hunt.
What can I harvest during the reserved waterfowl hunt?
You can harvest any waterfowl species with an open season during your reserved
hunt.

18 2022 Waterfowl Digest

 How to Apply for a Limited-License Hunt
What identification do I need to apply for the drawing?
You will need a valid driver’s license issued by the state where you live OR a State
of Michigan ID card (issued by the Secretary of State) OR a DNR Sportcard (issued
by license agents or at Michigan.gov/DNRLicenses).
I am only 9 years old. Can I apply for a reserved waterfowl hunt?
Yes. If you are licensed under the Mentored Youth Hunting Program, you may apply.
How do I apply for the hunt?
First, look at the 2022 Reserved Waterfowl Hunt Choices section table, and choose
the date and time you want to hunt. Next, look at the table to find the number for
the hunt unit you chose. Then, purchase an application for the hunt number(s)
you chose (you can select two hunt numbers – first and second choice). You can
purchase an application at a license agent or online at Michigan.gov/DNRLicenses.
Finally, check your receipt for accuracy and retain it as proof of your application.
How many times can I apply?
You can only apply one time. It is unlawful to apply more than once.
The receipt I received is not printed clearly or has an error. What do I do?
You are responsible for obtaining a DNR application receipt that states your
customer ID and hunt choice. Do not accept a receipt that is not legible. Check this
receipt for accuracy and retain as proof that you applied. Ensure any application
errors are corrected prior to the application deadline. If you submit an invalid
application, you will be ineligible for the drawing.
I am having trouble applying. What do I do?
Call 517-284-9453 (WILD) for assistance.
How do I know if I was successful in the drawing?
You are responsible for obtaining your drawing results online. They will be available
Sept. 19 at Michigan.gov/Waterfowl.

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2022 WATERFOWL HUNTING

2022 Reserved Waterfowl Hunt Choices

Location (a) Hunt Date (b) Hunt Hours Hunts Hunt

Available (c ) Number
Harsens Island Oct. 15 a.m. 35 0001
Harsens Island Oct. 15 p.m., youth (d) 35 0002
Harsens Island Oct. 16 a.m. 35 0003
Harsens Island Oct. 16 p.m. 35 0004
Harsens Island Oct. 22 a.m. 35 0005
Harsens Island Oct. 22 p.m. 35 0006
Harsens Island Oct. 23 a.m. 35 0007
Harsens Island Oct. 23 p.m. 35 0008
Shiawassee Oct. 15 a.m. 40 0009
River
Shiawassee Oct. 15 p.m., youth (d) 40 0010
River
Shiawassee Oct. 16 a.m. 40 0011
River
Shiawassee Oct. 16 p.m. 40 0012
River
Shiawassee Oct. 22 a.m. 40 0013
River
Shiawassee Oct. 22 p.m. 40 0014
River
Shiawassee Oct. 23 a.m. 40 0015
River
Shiawassee Oct. 23 p.m. 40 0016
River
Fish Point Oct. 8 a.m. 35 0017
Fish Point Oct. 8 p.m., youth (d) 35 0018
Fish Point Oct. 9 a.m. 35 0019
Fish Point Oct. 9 p.m. 35 0020
Fish Point Oct. 15 a.m. 35 0021
Fish Point Oct. 15 p.m. 35 0022
Fish Point Oct. 16 a.m. 35 0023
Fish Point Oct. 16 p.m. 35 0024

20 2022 Waterfowl Digest

Nayanquing Oct. 8 a.m. 30 0025
Point
Nayanquing Oct. 8 p.m., youth (d) 30 0026
Point
Nayanquing Oct. 9 a.m. 30 0027
Point
Nayanquing Oct. 9 p.m. 30 0028
Point
Nayanquing Oct. 15 a.m. 30 0029
Point
Nayanquing Oct. 15 p.m. 30 0030
Point
Nayanquing Oct. 16 a.m. 30 0031
Point
Nayanquing Oct. 16 p.m. 30 0032
Point
Pointe Mouillee Oct. 15 a.m. 21 0033
Pointe Mouillee Oct. 15 p.m., youth (d) 21 0034
Pointe Mouillee Oct. 16 a.m. 21 0035
Pointe Mouillee Oct. 16 p.m. 21 0036

a. Successful applicants must be accompanied by one to three appropriately

licensed hunters. Maximum party size is four hunters, but no more than
two adults per party during youth hunts.
b. No changes or cash refunds are permitted.
c. Number of hunts in 2022 is subject to change.
d. Rules for reserved p.m. youth hunts: Anyone may apply. Maximum party
size is four hunters, with no more than two adults per party. On the day
of the hunt, the hunting parties must have at least one licensed youth 16
years of age or younger. A parent or legal guardian may not allow a youth
hunter 10-16 years of age to participate unless accompanied by a licensed
adult meeting all other reserved hunt requirements. Youth hunters under
10 must be accompanied by a qualified Mentored Youth Hunting Program
mentor.

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 2022 WATERFOWL HUNTING

License Purchase
To hunt migratory waterfowl in Michigan, by age, you must have the following:
License by Age Age: Up Junior: age Resident: age Nonresident: Resident
to 9 10-15 16+ age 16+ Senior:
age 65+
Base license (1, 2) N/A $6 $11* $151* $5

Mentored youth $7.50 N/A N/A N/A N/A

license
Migratory bird youth Free Free N/A N/A N/A
endorsement (HIP)
Waterfowl license N/A N/A $12 $12 $12
(includes HIP)
Federal migratory N/A N/A $25 $25 $25
bird hunting stamp
(3)

*Hunters 16 years of age (including nonresidents) may purchase a base license

for $6.
(1) A nonresident three-day small game license ($50) allows the purchase of a
waterfowl license without the purchase of a base license.
(2) A nonresident seven-day small game license ($80) allows the purchase of a
waterfowl license without the purchase of a base license.
(3) A service fee of $2.50 will apply to federal migratory bird hunting stamps
purchased at all license agents and online.

Base License Purchase

Do I need a base license?
Yes. All hunters are required to have a base license before purchasing other
licenses. The base license provides funding for habitat and conservation work on
both public and private land and supports the work of conservation officers and
field staff to ensure safe, legal hunting practices are followed. The base license is
valid for hunting small game.
When can I purchase a 2022 base license?
The 2022 base license is currently available for purchase at license agents or at
Michigan.gov/DNRLicenses.

22 2022 Waterfowl Digest

What identification do I need to purchase my base and other licenses?
You will need a valid driver’s license issued by the state where you live OR a State
of Michigan ID card (issued by the Secretary of State) OR a DNR Sportcard (issued
by license agents or at Michigan.gov/DNRLicenses). All hunters born after Jan.
1, 1960, must present their hunter safety certificate or previous hunting license
(other than an apprentice license) to purchase their licenses.
How do I know if I can purchase a resident hunting license?
To qualify to purchase a resident hunting license, you must meet one of the
following criteria:
• Reside in a settled or permanent home or domicile within the boundaries of
this state with the intention of remaining in this state. The ownership of land in
Michigan by itself is not a qualification for a resident license.
• Be a full-time student at a Michigan college or university and reside in the state
during the school year.
• Serve full-time in the U.S. military and be officially stationed in Michigan.
• Serve full-time in the U.S. military and maintain residency in Michigan.
I am a nonresident. Can I hunt waterfowl on a nonresident three-day or seven-
day small game license?
Yes. A nonresident three-day or a nonresident seven-day small game license allows
the purchase of a waterfowl license without the purchase of a base license.
Do I have to carry my hunting license when hunting?
Yes, you must carry your base and waterfowl license, HIP endorsement, federal
duck stamp and the identification used to purchase those licenses and present
them upon request of a Michigan conservation officer, a tribal conservation officer
or any law enforcement officer when hunting. It is illegal to use another person’s
hunting license.
I am U.S. military personnel. Do I get a discount on licenses?
Hunting license fees are waived for all full-time, active-duty U.S. military personnel
who have maintained resident status, except for hunting licenses obtained through
a drawing. The individual must present military ID, leave papers, duty papers,
military orders or other evidence verifying that he or she is a member of the
military, along with a valid Michigan driver’s license or voter registration card.

Michigan Waterfowl Hunting License

Do I need a waterfowl hunting license?
All waterfowl hunters 16 years of age and older must purchase a Michigan
waterfowl hunting license in addition to a valid base license, including those
hunting on their own enclosed farmland. A waterfowl hunting license is not required
for coot, rail, Wilson’s snipe or woodcock hunting. Purchase of a waterfowl license
includes registration with the federal Migratory Bird Harvest Information Program.

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2022 WATERFOWL HUNTING

Harvest Information Program (HIP)

Do I need a HIP endorsement with my waterfowl hunting license?
Yes. To hunt migratory birds (ducks, geese, woodcock, snipe, rails, etc.), hunters
must register with the federal Migratory Bird HIP. HIP registration is free and
included automatically with the purchase of a Michigan waterfowl license or
woodcock stamp, indicated by the HIP endorsement “Migratory Bird Hunter”
printed on the license or stamp. Purchasers will also be asked HIP survey
questions regarding their migratory bird harvest during the previous year.
Waterfowl hunters under 16 years old must register with HIP by obtaining
the free “Migratory Bird Youth” product from a license agent or online at
Michigan.gov/DNRLicenses. A current-year HIP endorsement must be carried
when hunting migratory birds.

Federal Migratory Bird Hunting Stamp

What are federal migratory bird hunting stamps, and will I need one to hunt?
Federal migratory bird hunting and conservation stamps, commonly known
as “duck stamps,” are pictorial stamps produced by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife
Service. A federal duck stamp is required for all waterfowl hunters 16 years of age
and older. A duck stamp is not required for coot, rail, Wilson’s snipe or woodcock
hunting.
Where can I get a federal “duck stamp?”
You can get a federal duck stamp at post offices, at license agents or online at
Michigan.gov/DNRLicenses. A service fee of $3 will apply for all license agent and
online purchases. You will be issued a “temporary duck stamp,” which serves as
a valid federal duck stamp for 45 days. Amplex will send the official federal duck
stamp to your mailing address. If you do not receive your duck stamp in the mail,
contact Amplex at 1-800-852-4897. The federal stamp must be signed across its
face with your name in ink.

Apprentice Hunting
How many times can I purchase an apprentice hunting license?
As an apprentice hunter, you may purchase this license for two license years
before you must successfully complete a hunter safety course.
I am not a resident of Michigan. Can I purchase an apprentice license?
Yes. The base apprentice hunting license is available to residents and
nonresidents.
Can I hunt by myself with an apprentice license, or do I need to hunt with
someone else?
When hunting as an apprentice hunter, you must be accompanied by someone 21
years of age or older who has a regular, current-year hunting license for the same
game species that you are hunting.
24 2022 Waterfowl Digest
I am a youth apprentice hunter. Do I have to hunt with my parents?
If you are an apprentice hunter who is 10-16 years old, your accompanying hunter
must be your parent, guardian or someone designated by your parent or guardian
who is at least 21 years of age. The accompanying hunter must have a regular,
current-year hunting license for the same game species that you are hunting.
How close do I need to be to my accompanying hunter during the hunt?
Your accompanying hunter must be able to come to your immediate aid and stay
within a distance that permits uninterrupted, unaided visual and verbal contact.
Does my accompanying hunter need to have a waterfowl license?
For hunting waterfowl, your accompanying hunter needs a current-year waterfowl
hunting license.
I am an accompanying hunter. How many apprentice hunters can I supervise?
You may accompany no more than two apprentice hunters.

Mentored Youth Hunting

What is the Mentored Youth Hunting Program?
The Mentored Youth Hunting Program allows youth hunters 9 years old and younger
to hunt with a mentor who is a least 21 years old, has hunting experience and has
a valid Michigan hunting license other than an apprentice license. The mentor is
limited to two hunting devices (shotgun, rifle, bow and crossbow) in the field while
mentoring, and the youth must be within arm’s length of the mentor at all times.
Any hunting device possessed by a mentored youth must be sized appropriately
to fit the physical abilities of the youth. The mentor will be held responsible for all
actions of the youth hunter while in the field.
What can mentored youths hunt with their license?
The mentored youth license is a “package” license to hunt small game, waterfowl,
turkey (spring and fall) and deer, trap furbearers and fish for all species. Additional
restrictions apply; complete program details can be found in the Michigan Hunting
Digest or online at Michigan.gov/MentoredHunting.

Hunting Zones and Time Zones

Michigan is divided into waterfowl (duck, coot, common gallinule and goose)
hunting zones: North, Middle and South; see map below. The North Zone includes
all of the Upper Peninsula. The dividing line between the Middle Zone and South
Zone is a line beginning at the Wisconsin border in Lake Michigan, due west of
the mouth of Stony Creek in Oceana County; then due east to, and southeasterly
along the south shore of Stony Creek to Scenic Drive, southeasterly along Scenic
Drive to Stony Lake Road, easterly along Stony Lake and Garfield Roads to M-20,
east along M-20 to U.S. 10 Business Route (BR) in the city of Midland, east along
U.S. 10 BR to U.S. 10, easterly on U.S.-10 then crossing U.S.-75 to state highway
M-25 (west of the town of Bay City), easterly along M-25 into Tuscola County then
northeasterly and easterly on M-25 through Tuscola county into Huron County,
2022 Waterfowl Digest 25
2022 WATERFOWL HUNTING

turning southeasterly on M-25 (near the town of Huron City; also locally named
North Shore Road) to the centerline of Willow Creek in Section 4, T18N R14E,
Huron County, then northerly along the centerline of Willow Creek to the mouth of
Willow Creek into Lake Huron, then directly due east along a line from the mouth
of Willow Creek heading east into Lake Huron to a point due east and on the
Michigan/USA-Canadian border.

Hunting Hours
When is it legal for me to hunt during the day?
The map above includes hunting-hour time zones and time adjustments needed
for zones B, C and D. Actual times for Time Zone A are shown in the table in the
Hunting Hours section. Hours in the table are one half-hour before sunrise to
sunset (adjusted for daylight saving time). Shooting hours for the early teal season
differ; see Early Teal Season section.
Zone A Hunting Hours Table
One half-hour before sunrise to sunset (adjusted for daylight saving time).
26 2022 Waterfowl Digest
Zone A Hunting Hours Table (September - October)
Date a.m. p.m. Date a.m. p.m.
Sept. 1 6:27 8:06 Oct. 1 6:59 7:14
Sept. 2 6:29 8:04 Oct. 2 7:00 7:12
Sept. 3 6:30 8:03 Oct. 3 7:02 7:10
Sept. 4 6:31 8:01 Oct. 4 7:03 7:08
Sept. 5 6:32 7:59 Oct. 5 7:04 7:07
Sept. 6 6:33 7:58 Oct. 6 7:05 7:05
Sept. 7 6:34 7:56 Oct. 7 7:06 7:03
Sept. 8 6:35 7:54 Oct. 8 7:07 7:02
Sept. 9 6:36 7:52 Oct. 9 7:08 7:00
Sept. 10 6:37 7:51 Oct. 10 7:09 6:58
Sept. 11 6:38 7:49 Oct. 11 7:10 6:57
Sept. 12 6:39 7:47 Oct. 12 7:12 6:55
Sept. 13 6:40 7:45 Oct. 13 7:13 6:53
Sept. 14 6:41 7:44 Oct. 14 7:14 6:52
Sept. 15 6:42 7:42 Oct. 15 7:15 6:50
Sept. 16 6:43 7:40 Oct. 16 7:16 6:49
Sept. 17 6:44 7:38 Oct. 17 7:17 6:47
Sept. 18 6:45 7:36 Oct. 18 7:19 6:45
Sept. 19 6:46 7:35 Oct. 19 7:20 6:44
Sept. 20 6:47 7:33 Oct. 20 7:21 6:42
Sept. 21 6:49 7:31 Oct. 21 7:22 6:41
Sept. 22 6:50 7:29 Oct. 22 7:23 6:39
Sept. 23 6:51 7:28 Oct. 23 7:24 6:38
Sept. 24 6:52 7:26 Oct. 24 7:26 6:36
Sept. 25 6:53 7:24 Oct. 25 7:27 6:35
Sept. 26 6:54 7:22 Oct. 26 7:28 6:33
Sept. 27 6:55 7:21 Oct. 27 7:29 6:32
Sept. 28 6:56 7:19 Oct. 28 7:31 6:31
Sept. 29 6:57 7:17 Oct. 29 7:32 6:29
Sept. 30 6:58 7:15 Oct. 30 7:33 6:28
Oct. 31 7:34 6:27

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2022 WATERFOWL HUNTING

Zone A Hunting Hours Table (November - December)

Date a.m. p.m. Date a.m. p.m.

Nov. 1 7:35 6:25 Dec. 1 7:12 5:01
Nov. 2 7:37 6:24 Dec. 2 7:13 5:00
Nov. 3 7:38 6:23 Dec. 3 7:14 5:00
Nov. 4 7:39 6:22 Dec. 4 7:15 5:00
Nov. 5 7:40 6:20 Dec. 5 7:16 5:00
Nov. 6 6:42 5:19 Dec. 6 7:17 5:00
Nov. 7 6:43 5:18 Dec. 7 7:18 5:00
Nov. 8 6:44 5:17 Dec. 8 7:19 5:00
Nov. 9 6:45 5:16 Dec. 9 7:20 5:00
Nov. 10 6:47 5:15 Dec. 10 7:20 5:00
Nov. 11 6:48 5:14 Dec. 11 7:21 5:00
Nov. 12 6:49 5:13 Dec. 12 7:22 5:00
Nov. 13 6:50 5:12 Dec. 13 7:23 5:00
Nov. 14 6:52 5:11 Dec. 14 7:24 5:00
Nov. 15 6:53 5:10 Dec. 15 7:24 5:00
Nov. 16 6:54 5:09 Dec. 16 7:25 5:01
Nov. 17 6:55 5:08 Dec. 17 7:26 5:01
Nov. 18 6:57 5:08 Dec. 18 7:26 5:01
Nov. 19 6:58 5:07 Dec. 19 7:27 5:02
Nov. 20 6:59 5:06 Dec. 20 7:27 5:02
Nov. 21 7:00 5:05 Dec. 21 7:28 5:03
Nov. 22 7:01 5:05 Dec. 22 7:28 5:03
Nov. 23 7:03 5:04 Dec. 23 7:29 5:04
Nov. 24 7:04 5:04 Dec. 24 7:29 5:04
Nov. 25 7:05 5:03 Dec. 25 7:30 5:05
Nov. 26 7:06 5:03 Dec. 26 7:30 5:06
Nov. 27 7:07 5:02 Dec. 27 7:30 5:06
Nov. 28 7:08 5:02 Dec. 28 7:31 5:07
Nov. 29 7:10 5:01 Dec. 29 7:31 5:08
Nov. 30 7:11 5:01 Dec. 30 7:31 5:09
Dec. 31 7:31 5:09

28 2022 Waterfowl Digest

Zone A Hunting Hours Table (January - February)

Date a.m. p.m. Date a.m. p.m.

Jan. 1 7:31 5:10 Feb. 1 7:16 5:46
Jan. 2 7:31 5:11 Feb. 2 7:15 5:47
Jan. 3 7:31 5:12 Feb. 3 7:14 5:49
Jan. 4 7:31 5:13 Feb. 4 7:13 5:50
Jan. 5 7:31 5:14 Feb. 5 7:12 5:51
Jan. 6 7:31 5:15 Feb. 6 7:10 5:53
Jan. 7 7:31 5:16 Feb. 7 7:09 5:54
Jan. 8 7:31 5:17 Feb. 8 7:08 5:55
Jan. 9 7:31 5:18 Feb. 9 7:07 5:57
Jan. 10 7:31 5:19 Feb. 10 7:05 5:58
Jan. 11 7:30 5:20 Feb. 11 7:04 5:59
Jan. 12 7:30 5:21 Feb. 12 7:03 6:00
Jan. 13 7:30 5:22 Feb. 13 7:02 6:02
Jan. 14 7:29 5:24 Feb. 14 7:00 6:03
Jan. 15 7:29 5:25
Jan. 16 7:28 5:26
Jan. 17 7:28 5:27
Jan. 18 7:27 5:28
Jan. 19 7:27 5:30
Jan. 20 7:26 5:31
Jan. 21 7:25 5:32
Jan. 22 7:25 5:33
Jan. 23 7:24 5:35
Jan. 24 7:23 5:36
Jan. 25 7:22 5:37
Jan. 26 7:22 5:38
Jan. 27 7:21 5:40
Jan. 28 7:20 5:41
Jan. 29 7:19 5:42
Jan. 30 7:18 5:44
Jan. 31 7:17 5:45

2022 Waterfowl Digest 29

 2022 WATERFOWL HUNTING

Waterfowl Hunting at State Parks and Recreation Areas

Can I waterfowl hunt at Michigan state parks or recreation areas?

Unless noted here, in state law or posted on location, state parks are not open to
waterfowl hunting, but state recreation areas are open to waterfowl hunting.
Portions of the following state parks and scenic sites are open to waterfowl hunting
during established seasons:
• Algonac State Park • Old Mission Point State Park
• Bay City State Park • Palms Book State Park
• Coldwater Lake State Park • Port Crescent State Park
• Craig Lake State Park • Sleeper State Park
• Duck Lake State Park • South Higgins Lake State Park
• Fisherman’s Island State Park • Sturgeon Point State Park
• Grand Mere State Park • Thompson’s Harbor State Park
• Hartwick Pines State Park • Van Buren State Park
• J. W. Wells State Park • Van Riper State Park
• Laughing Whitefish Falls State Park • Wagner Falls Scenic Site
• Mitchell State Park • Warren Dunes State Park
• Negwegon State Park • Watkins Lake State Park
• North Higgins Lake State Park • Fort Wilkins Stark Park
The following state parks and recreation areas are closed entirely to waterfowl
hunting from Sept. 1-5. All or portions are open after Labor Day.
• Cheboygan State Park • Metamora-Hadley Recreation Area
• Fayette State Park • Porcupine Mountains Wilderness
• Fort Custer Recreation Area State Park
• Hoeft State Park • Rifle River Recreation Area
• Indian Lake State Park • Silver Lake State Park
• Island Lake Recreation Area • Tahquamenon Falls State Park
• Leelanau State Park • Wilderness State Park
• Ludington State Park • Sterling State Park
• McLain State Park
Portions of the following state parks and recreation areas are closed to waterfowl
hunting from Sept. 3-5. Portions are open after Labor Day.
• Seven Lakes State Park
Portions of the following state parks and recreation areas are closed to waterfowl
hunting from Sept. 1-5. Portions are open after Labor Day.
• Holly Recreation Area
• Pinckney Recreation Area
• Sleepy Hollow State Park
30 2022 Waterfowl Digest
Portions of the following state recreation areas are closed to waterfowl hunting
from Sept. 1-15. Portions are open beginning Sept. 16.
• Brighton Recreation Area
• Ionia Recreation Area
• Lake Hudson Recreation Area
• Ortonville Recreation Area
• Pontiac Lake Recreation Area
• Waterloo Recreation Area
• Fort Custer Recreation Area
• Island Lake Recreation Area
• Metamora-Hadley Recreation Area
Portions of the following state recreation areas are closed to waterfowl hunting.
• Highland Recreation Area
• Proud Lake Recreation Area
• Yankee Springs Recreation Area
• Lime Island Recreation Area
Contact your local DNR Parks and Recreation or Wildlife office for more
information.

Joint State-Federal Migratory Bird Hunting

Regulations
Violations of state migratory bird regulations are also violations of federal
regulations.
Which equipment can I use to kill migratory birds?
You may use a bow and arrow, a crossbow or a shotgun 10-gauge or smaller and
capable of holding no more than three shells. Shotguns capable of holding more
than three shells should be plugged with a one-piece filler incapable of removal
without disassembling the gun, so that the total capacity of the shotgun does not
exceed three shells.
Which equipment is illegal for use to kill migratory birds?
Hunters may not use traps, snares, nets, swivel guns, punt guns, battery guns,
machine guns, fishhooks, poison, drugs, explosives or stupefying substances.
Single-projectile shotshells are also illegal for use.
How many firearms may I hunt migratory birds with?
You may only use or possess one firearm per person.
Can I use a car or aircraft to hunt migratory birds?
No. You may not hunt from, or with the aid or use of, a car or other motor-driven
land conveyance or aircraft. Exception: Hunters with disabilities who have been

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2022 WATERFOWL HUNTING

issued a DNR permit to take game from a standing vehicle may use a stationary
motor vehicle or stationary motor-driven land conveyance.
Can I hunt migratory birds while my boat motor is running or while my boat is
propelled by the wind?
No. You may not hunt from or by means of any motorboat, power boat or other craft
having a motor attached, any sailboat or any floating craft or device of any kind
propelled or towed by power or sail, unless the motor has been completely shut off
and/or the sails furled and its progress ceased.
A craft under power may be used to retrieve dead or crippled birds; however,
crippled birds may not be shot from such craft while under power or until forward
progress has ceased. A loaded gun shall not be transported in an automobile,
aircraft, motorboat or sailboat, motor bike, tractor, ORV, snowmobile or other
motorized vehicle.
Can I drive, rally or chase migratory birds with my boat?
No. You may not drive, rally or chase birds with any motorized conveyance or any
sailboat to put them in the range of hunters.
Can I hunt from a sinkbox?
No. You may not hunt from a sinkbox. (A sinkbox is a low, floating device with a
depression, affording the hunter a means of concealment beneath the surface of
the water.)
Can I use live decoys to hunt migratory birds?
No, you may not use live decoys. All live, tame or captive ducks and geese shall be
removed for a period of 10 consecutive days prior to hunting and confined within
an enclosure which substantially reduces the audibility of their calls and totally
conceals such tame birds from the sight of migratory waterfowl.
Can I use recorded or electronically amplified bird calls to hunt migratory birds?
No. You may not use recorded or electronically amplified bird calls, imitations
of bird calls, bird sounds or imitations of bird sounds. Use of electronically or
mechanically operated decoys that do not produce bird sounds or calls is not
prohibited.
Can I use bait to hunt migratory birds?
No. You may not hunt by baiting (placing feed such as corn, wheat, salt or other
feed to constitute a lure or enticement), or on or over any baited area where a
person knows or reasonably should know that the area is baited. Hunters should be
aware that a baited area is considered to be baited for 10 days after the removal of
the bait. Nonfood imitations — for example, plastic corncobs — are not prohibited.
Where can I learn more about importing migratory birds hunted in other
countries?
For information regarding the importation of migratory birds killed in another
country, you should consult 50 CFR 20.61 - 20.66 or contact Senior Resident
Law Enforcement Agent, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, 3800 Packard Road, Suite

32 2022 Waterfowl Digest

160, Ann Arbor, MI 48108. One fully feathered wing must remain attached to all
migratory game birds being transported between a port of entry and one’s home
or to a migratory bird preservation facility. No person shall import migratory game
birds killed in any foreign country, except Canada, unless such birds are dressed
(except as required above), drawn, and the head and feet removed. No person
shall import migratory game birds belonging to another person.
How many migratory birds can I possess or transport?
You may not possess or transport more than the daily limit of migratory birds at
or between the place where taken and (1) your automobile or principal means of
land transportation, or (2) your personal abode or temporary or transient place of
lodging, or (3) a commercial preservation facility, or a (4) post office or common
carrier facility, whichever one you arrive at first.
How should I tag my birds if I want to leave them in the possession of another
person? Do I need to leave a wing attached?
Your migratory birds may not be left in the custody of another person unless the
birds are tagged by the hunter with the following information:
• The hunter’s signature.
• The hunter’s address.
• The total number of birds involved by species.
• The dates these birds were killed.
• Current base or Sportcard license number.
No person or business shall receive or have in custody any migratory game birds
belonging to another person unless such birds are properly tagged. You may not
transport any dressed or plucked bird unless one fully feathered wing is attached.
Can I ship migratory birds?
Yes. You may ship migratory game birds. The package must be marked on the
outside with: (1) the name and address of the person sending the birds, (2) the
name and address of the person to whom the birds are being sent and (3) the
number of birds, by species, contained in the package.
Can I hunt outside the hours open to hunting or hawking?
No. You cannot take migratory game birds except during the hours open to hunting
and hawking. Reminder: During the hours closed to hunting, a hunter may not
possess a firearm or bow and arrow unless the firearm is unloaded in the barrel
and all arrows are placed in a quiver.
When I have reached the daily limit, can I take more birds?
No. You may not take or attempt to take in any one day more than one daily limit.
Wounded birds reduced to possession should be immediately killed and included
in the daily bag limit.
Do I have to try to track down birds that were wounded?
Yes. You may not kill or wound any migratory game bird without making a
reasonable attempt to retrieve it and include it in your daily bag limit.

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What are the rules for using decoys, blinds or raised platforms on public lands
and waters?
• You may not leave decoys set out between 9 p.m. and 3 a.m. in waters of the
Great Lakes and connecting waters and lakes wholly enclosed by publicly
owned lands.
• You may not erect or use a hunting blind on any public waters without
permanently affixing to the exterior, in waterproof letters not less than 3 inches
high, the name and address of the person who placed it there. Any unoccupied
blind on the Great Lakes or Lake St. Clair may be used by the first person to
occupy it each day.
• You may not leave any hunting blind or part thereof anchored or affixed to the
bottomlands of any public waters within the state of Michigan prior to Aug. 15
or later than Jan. 16.
• You may not hunt waterfowl with a firearm from a raised platform except over
submerged bottomlands. Blinds or platforms constructed over public waters
must meet marking and removal requirements.
• You may not use or occupy a blind on the waters of the state that does not
comply with marking and placement requirements.
• Contact the Plainwell DNR office (269-685-6851) regarding blind rules for
Allegan County.
Can I hunt federal refuges?
You may not possess or carry a firearm or bow or hunt or kill any game during
the open season for hunting and taking of migratory game birds on any national
wildlife refuge when posted to prohibit unauthorized entry, except on that portion
of the Shiawassee National Wildlife Refuge in Saginaw County and Detroit River
International Wildlife Refuge in Wayne and Monroe counties on which duck or
goose hunting is authorized by a daily hunting permit issued by the U.S. Fish and
Wildlife Service. Caution: More restrictive regulations may apply to national wildlife
refuges open to public hunting. For additional information on federal regulations,
contact the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Office of Law Enforcement, One Federal
Dr., Fort Snelling, MN 55111; phone: 612-713-5320. Reference: Hunters should
consult the actual federal regulations related to migratory game birds, which are
located in Title 50, Code of Federal Regulations, Part 20.

Falconry Season
When is the falconry season, and which birds can I take using falconry?
Falconry is a permitted method of hunting migratory game birds. Rails, Wilson’s
snipe, woodcock, geese, ducks, mergansers, coots and common gallinules may be
taken during the established firearm seasons in the respective zones and goose
management units. In addition, ducks, mergansers, coots and common gallinules
may be taken statewide by falconry from Jan. 2-15, 2023, and Feb. 24 - March
10, 2023.

34 2022 Waterfowl Digest

What are the bag and possession limits for falconry?
The daily limit is three birds of a single or combined species. Possession limit is
nine birds.

Nontoxic Shot Rules

Do I have to use nontoxic shot when waterfowl hunting?
Yes. Use of nontoxic shot is required statewide for all waterfowl hunting. When
you hunt to take ducks, geese, mergansers, coots, common gallinules, rails or
Wilson’s snipe anywhere in Michigan, you may not possess or use shotshells
loaded with a material other than nontoxic steel, bismuth, tungsten-iron,
tungsten-polymer, tungsten matrix or other shot determined by the U.S. Fish and
Wildlife Service to be nontoxic. Waterfowl hunters using muzzleloaders must also
use FWS-approved nontoxic shot. Shells loaded with lead shot may be used to
hunt other small game species, including woodcock; however, we recommend
using nontoxic shot for hunting all small game species. NOTE: Check area rules
and the DNR website for nontoxic shot regulations for nonwaterfowl hunting on
managed waterfowl areas.

Float Hunting
Can I enter private property while float hunting?
Hunting and trapping are exclusive rights of landowner(s) bordering the waterway
and their invited guests. Float hunters need permission to enter lands protected
by the Recreational Trespass Act. You may float-hunt public lands open to
hunting.
Safety Zones Around Buildings
How far must I be from occupied dwellings to waterfowl hunt?
You must be at least 450 feet from an occupied building, dwelling, house,
residence or cabin, or any barn or other building used in connection with a farm
operation. To hunt within a safety zone, you must obtain the written permission of
the owner, renter or occupant of the property.

Waterfowl Hunting Closures

Are there areas off-limits to waterfowl hunting?
Yes. Each are posted to alert hunters that they are off-limits to hunting:
• In Grand Traverse County: Boardman Lake and those waters of the Boardman
River lying north of Airport Road and south of the 8th Street Bridge are closed
to waterfowl hunting.
• In Roscommon County: Mud Lake, Lake St. Helen and the South Branch of
the Au Sable River connecting these two lakes are closed to public waterfowl
hunting.
• There are also other closed areas in the state.
2022 Waterfowl Digest 35
2022 WATERFOWL HUNTING

Identifying Ducks
Where can I learn more about identifying ducks?
Skill at identifying ducks in flight is important, especially because several duck
species have special daily limit restrictions (see Hunting Seasons and Bag Limits
section), and the early teal season allows only teal to be harvested (see Early Teal
Season section). Hunters are advised to practice waterfowl identification before the
season begins to build identification skills. Visit Michigan.gov/Waterfowl for duck
identification aids.

Leg-band Reporting
What should I do if I kill a bird with a leg band?
You can promote sound waterfowl management by promptly reporting all banded
ducks and geese harvested, including date and location taken. This information
is used to determine annual survival, migration routes and contribution to
state harvest from different breeding grounds. To report bands, go online to
ReportBand.gov. Please note that even if the band you recover is inscribed with a
1-800 telephone number, you can only report it at ReportBand.gov.

Hunter Surveys
Is there a way for me to give feedback or provide information about my hunting
season?
Yes. Some hunters are randomly selected each year to participate in state or
federal harvest surveys, including collection of birds’ wings, tails and other body
parts. Accurate and complete reporting is essential for biologists to estimate
the annual harvest and impact of hunting. Please do your part to help manage
waterfowl by responding to surveys. The knowledge gained permits selection of
annual regulations that maximize hunting opportunities while perpetuating healthy
waterfowl populations for future hunters.

GENERAL INFORMATION

Commercial Hunting Guides on Public Land

What do I need to do to guide waterfowl hunters on state-owned lands?
All commercial hunting guides utilizing state-owned lands must get written
authorization. Guides are required to meet the conditions of the written
authorization. If you are a guide who utilizes state-owned lands, please visit
Michigan.gov/WildlifePermits or contact Casey Reitz at [email protected] or
517-284-6210 for more information.

36 2022 Waterfowl Digest

What do I need to do to guide waterfowl hunters on national forest lands?
Commercial guiding on national forest (NF) lands requires a special use
permit. Applications can be obtained through any U.S. Forest Service office or
by calling: Hiawatha NF: 906-428-5800; Huron-Manistee NF: 231-775-2421;
Ottawa NF: 906-932-1330.

Aquatic Invasive Species

How can I help stop the spread of aquatic invasive species?
Invasive plants and animals like phragmites, European frog-bit and zebra mussels
can cause significant harm to wildlife habitat, reduce hunting opportunities and
damage equipment.
Invasive species are often spread unintentionally. Microscopic organisms and
aquatic vegetation readily attach to equipment, and without proper steps to remove
them, they are unknowingly transported from one lake, river or wetland to another.
To help prevent the spread of invasive species and protect waterfowl habitat,
hunters should take the following precautions:
• Do not use invasive phragmites (common reed) as part of a blind because it is a
prohibited species in Michigan and illegal to possess without a permit.
• Switch to anchor designs that prevent aquatic plants from becoming attached.
• Inspect all gear and equipment before and after use, including anchors, decoys
and lines, blinds, waders and clothing. Remove any plants, animals or soils.
• Learn to identify common invasive species and report sightings to the Midwest
Invasive Species Information Network at MISIN.MSU.edu.
Michigan law requires that a person remove all aquatic plants from watercraft,
watercraft equipment and trailers before placing these into Michigan waters.
Prior to transporting any watercraft over land, boaters are required to do all of the
following:
• Remove all drain plugs from bilges, ballast tanks and live wells.
• Drain all water from any live wells and bilges.
• Ensure that the watercraft, trailer and any conveyance used to transport the
watercraft or trailer are free of aquatic organisms, including plants.
This means that after trailering boats, and before getting on the road, boaters must
pull plugs, drain water and remove plants and debris.
Violation of the law is a state civil infraction, and violators may be subject to fines
up to $100.
For more information on this law, see Michigan’s Natural Resources and
Environmental Protection Act (Act 451 of 1994) Part 413.
Additional information about invasive species can be found at
Michigan.gov/Invasives/Take-Action.

2022 Waterfowl Digest 37

GENERAL INFORMATION

Dioxin Advisory Information

Should I be concerned about dioxin?
Health assessors from the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services
and Michigan Department of Natural Resources determined that samples of
wild game from the floodplains of the Tittabawassee River and Saginaw River
downstream of Midland contained high levels of dioxin and dioxin-like compounds.
Wild game tested include deer, turkey, cottontail rabbit, squirrel, wood duck and
Canada goose. As a result, the MDHHS advises that hunters and their families to
follow these recommendations related to waterfowl:
• Remove the skin of waterfowl before cooking and discard the liver and other
internal organs.
• Limit duck consumption to two servings per month (provided that the skin is
removed) and limit goose consumption to four servings per month. A serving
varies based on body weight – for example, a serving for an 180-pound
individual is 8 ounces.
More information on wild game guidelines for the Saginaw and Tittabawassee
River floodplains, including a map of the area covered by these guidelines, can be
found in at Michigan.gov/EatSafeFish under “Eat Safe Wild Game.” For additional
information regarding dioxin, dioxin-like compounds and wild game advisories for
the Tittabawassee River and Saginaw River floodplains, go to Michigan.gov/Dioxin.

Avian Influenza
Avian influenza or “bird flu” is caused by viruses that infect both wild and domestic
birds. Highly pathogenic avian influenza virus is currently circulating in wild birds
in North America and dabbling ducks are the most commonly infected waterfowl,
but geese, swans, shorebirds and other species also can be infected. Currently, the
DNR does not anticipate any serious impacts to Michigan’s waterfowl populations.
Visit Michigan.gov/WildlifeDisease for more information.

General Precautions When Processing Waterfowl

What are the precautions I should take when processing waterfowl?
• Harvest only waterfowl that act and look healthy.
• Do not eat, drink or smoke while handling carcasses.
• Field dress and prepare game outdoors or in a well-ventilated area
• Wear disposable or rubber gloves while processing waterfowl.
• Remove and discard intestines soon after harvesting and avoid direct contact
with the intestinal contents.
• Wash hands, utensils and work surfaces before and after handling any meat.

38 2022 Waterfowl Digest

• Keep waterfowl cool (either with ice or refrigeration), below 45 degrees, until
processed, then refrigerate or freeze.
• Cook waterfowl to an internal temperature of 165 degrees.

Commercial Processor Registration

How do I become a commercial processor?
Commercial processors who accept wild game for processing and storage are
now required to register with the DNR. Registration is free. To register, visit
Michigan.gov/WildlifePermits.

Poachers Beware: Hunters are Watching

What are the consequences of poaching?
Violations of waterfowl hunting regulations are misdemeanors that may be
punishable by up to 90 days imprisonment and up to $500 in fines per animal.

2022 Waterfowl Digest 39

Need information?
Contact a DNR office listed below or visit us online.
Customer service centers (CSC) are open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Baraga CSC Gaylord CSC Norway Field Office
427 U.S. 41 N. 1732 W. M-32 520 W. U.S. 2
Baraga, MI 49908 Gaylord, MI 49735 Norway, MI 49870
906-353-6651 989-732-3541 906-563-9247
Bay City CSC Lansing CSC Plainwell CSC
3580 State Park Drive 4166 Legacy Parkway 621 N. 10th St.
Bay City, MI 48706 Lansing, MI 48911 Plainwell, MI 49080
989-684-9141 517-284-4720 269-685-6851
Cadillac CSC Marquette CSC Roscommon CSC
8015 Mackinaw Trail 1990 U.S. 41 S. I-75 and M-18 South,
Cadillac, MI 49601 Marquette, MI 49855 8717 N. Roscommon Road
231-775-9727 906-228-6561 Roscommon, MI 48653
Crystal Falls Field Office Naubinway Field Office 989-275-5151
1420 W. U.S. 2 P.O. Box 287 Sault Ste. Marie CSC
Crystal Falls, MI 49920 W11569 U.S. 2 E. P.O. Box 798
906-875-6622 Naubinway, MI 49762 4131 S. M-129 .
906-477-6048 Sault Ste. Marie, MI 49783
Detroit Metro CSC
1801 Atwater St. Newberry CSC 906-635-5281
Detroit, MI 48207 5100 M-123 Traverse City CSC
313-396-6890 Newberry, MI 49868 2122 S. M-37
906-293-5131 Traverse City, MI 49685
Escanaba CSC
6833 U.S. 2, U.S. 41 and M-35 231-922-5280
Gladstone, MI 49837
906-786-2351

Helpful URLs:
Find us on Facebook at Facebook.com/MichiganDNR
Follow us on Twitter at Twitter.com/MDNR_Wildlife

Direct DNR website URLs:

DNR digests and guides: Michigan.gov/DNRDigests
Wildlife diseases: Michigan.gov/WildlifeDisease
Hunter education: Michigan.gov/HunterEducation
Hunting: Michigan.gov/Hunting
Trapping/fur harvesting: Michigan.gov/Trapping
Invasive species: Michigan.gov/InvasiveSpecies
Mi-HUNT: Michigan.gov/MiHunt
Pure Michigan Hunt: Michigan.gov/PureMichiganHunt
Shooting ranges: Michigan.gov/ShootingRanges
Michigan Department of Natural Resources
Wildlife Division
525 W. Allegan St.
P.O. Box 30444
Lansing, MI 48933
517-284 -WILD (9453)
Contact hours: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.