Michigan Elk Hunt Applications Open Friday But Don’t Get Your Hopes Up

If you’ve ever thought about hunting elk in Michigan, now’s your shot…well, at least a shot at getting picked. It's not as simple as one might think.

According to ABC 12, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources is opening up applications for its annual elk hunt, but…hold up. This is one of those long-shot deals.

Only 200 licenses are up for grabs this year, which is actually fewer than last year. Meanwhile, you’ve got tens of thousands of hunters expected to throw their name in.

It’s basically like hitting a mini hunting lottery.

See Also: 5 Bald Eagles Dead in Michigan, and It Doesn’t Look Like an Accident

Michigan’s elk population is sitting somewhere around 700 animals, which is why the state keeps the number of licenses pretty limited. Last season, just over half the hunters who drew a tag were successful, so if you do get picked, you’ve got a legit chance.

How Hard Is It to Get an Elk Tag in Michigan?

We're not going to sugarcoat this...it's really hard.

More than 47,000 people are expected to apply for just 200 licenses. The state uses a weighted system, so the longer you’ve been applying, the better your odds get.

When Is the Michigan Elk Hunting Season This Year?

There are two hunting periods this year.

The first runs September 23 through October 4.

The second goes from December 1 through December 15.

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When Can You Apply for a Michigan Elk Tag?

Applications run May 1 through June 1 and cost $5.

You can apply online, through the app, or at a license agent.

Drawing results drop on June 22.

Someone’s getting that tag…just probably not you. Your odds are pretty slim.