Year-Round Coyote Hunting Set to Return in Michigan

Hunters in Michigan just scored a big win. On August 14, 2025, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources' (DNR) Natural Resources Commission (NRC) unanimously voted to reinstate a year-round coyote hunting season—something that outdoorsmen (and women) argued never should've been taken away in the first place.

RELATED: 8 Animals You Can Legally Hunt in Michigan Year-Round

Why Coyotes Matter in Michigan

Coyotes aren't exactly endangered. In fact, far from it. They live in all 83 counties in Michigan and, according to Animals A-Z, they reproduce like crazy. Think around four to seven pups in a litter, and coyotes can reach up to 20 years old.

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As the population of coyotes rises, so do the headaches for farmers, landowners, and anyone who's had a small dog mysteriously disappear. A year-round season is more than just a hunter's dream—it's a solid wildlife management solution.

How We Got Here

The Michigan United Conservation Clubs��(MUCC) reports that back in 2024, the NRC closed part of the coyote season from April to July, not because of science, but because of "social pressure" from groups concerned about the well-being of the coyotes.

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The MUCC and the Michigan Trappers and Predator Callers Association (MTPCA) weren't having it. They sued, rallied, and made enough noise that the NRC is now correcting course.

What's Next for Michigan Hunters

For now, nothing changes immediately—no new Wildlife Conservation Order has been filed. But the NRC made it crystal clear: by 2026, Michigan hunters can expect a full year-round coyote season.

RELATED: Michigan Judge Clears Ted Nugent After Undercover DNR Hog Sting

Lawmakers like Sen. Michele Hoitenga and Rep. Parker Fairbairn are already backing it, pointing out that unchecked coyote populations wreak havoc on deer, turkeys, rabbits, pets, and livestock.

Bottom Line

This isn't the final victory lap, but it's close. Michigan hunters, trappers, and conservationists still need to hold the NRC accountable—but the odds of year-round coyote hunting returning look better than ever.