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Michigan adopts one-buck rule; Louisiana adjusts baiting zones

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Lansing, Michigan: The Michigan Natural Resources Commission voted Wednesday in Gaylord to limit Lower Peninsula hunters to one buck annually beginning March 2027, reducing the buck bag limit from two to one and approving changes to license use and season dates, including elimination of the late antlerless season and adjustments to regular and combination license antler and doe tag rules. Gaylord meeting attendees and department officials said the measures aim to reduce booming deer populations by encouraging more antlerless harvests; Michigan Department of Natural Resources proposals led the rule changes, which include license specifics taking effect March 2027. In Louisiana, legislators approved SCR 24 effective May 21, 2026, narrowing CWD control zones and changing baiting restrictions per Sen. Glenn Womack.

Prepared by Emily Rhodes and reviewed by editorial team.

Timeline of Events

Early 2026: Michigan Department of Natural Resources presented proposals for deer regulation changes.
Date unspecified: Michigan Natural Resources Commission debated proposals for hours during a Gaylord meeting.
Commission vote: NRC approved reducing Lower Peninsula buck bag limit to one and eliminated the late antlerless season.
21st May 2026: Louisiana Legislature passed SCR 24, changing baiting rules and CWD control-zone thresholds.
March 2027: Michigan's one-buck limit and revised license rules are scheduled to take effect.

Why This Matters to You

If you're a hunter in Michigan's Lower Peninsula, your buck bag limit drops to one starting March 2027. This change aims to control deer populations by encouraging more doe harvests. Louisiana hunters, take note: baiting rules and CWD control zones are changing from May 2026.

The Bottom Line

These changes are about managing wildlife populations and disease control. Check your state's Department of Natural Resources website for specific license changes and hunting regulations. Worth forwarding if you know someone planning their next hunting season.