This means if you are unable to attend a traditional in-person class/field day you still have the opportunity to hunt in Michigan this fall.

However, with limited time, space and instructor capacity there will be fewer in-person classes available this fall than in previous years.Īs a solution to the lack of available classes, the DNR has decided to temporarily waive the requirement of the hands-on field day until June of 2021. As of Mid-September, they are allowing the teaching of hunter safety in person once again. With the impact of Covid-19 here in Michigan, the DNR was forced to cancel and pause all hunter safety courses during the spring and summer. The typical hunter education course consists of two to five sessions with a total class time of 10-12 hours, including a test and hands-on field day. In Michigan, the successful completion of the Hunter Education course is required for anyone who wants to hunt who was born after January 1, 1960.

However, 2020, has made other plans and the traditional courses are not being offered as frequently or in their usual formats. While the apprentice license is a great tool, I would still highly recommend registering a new person for the state hunter education course. After that, you must go through the hunter education program in Michigan. The apprentice license is only valid for two years. For apprentices between ages 10-16, the accompanying hunter must be the apprentice’s parent, guardian or someone designated by the parent or guardian. You do not have to take hunter safety to hunt with an apprentice license, but you must be hunting with another licensed hunter. If you know a youth or adult who wants to become a new hunter this year, there are a couple of different ways to make that happen.įor anyone 10 years of age or older the first two years of the hunting experience can take place under an apprentice license.

While many Michigan youth went afield last weekend, there are still many others who are excited about their first opportunity to join family or friends in the woods this fall. With the Youth and Liberty deer hunts in the books already, archery season will be here before you know it.

Michigan virtual field day