Michigan’s Early Archery Harvest Is Already Heavy on Bucks
The Michigan archery white-tailed deer season is only days old. Since Michigan's archery season opened on October 1, 2026, bowhunters have wasted little time filling buck tags. The antlerless tags seem to be taking the scenic route.
RELATED:
Michigan's 2026 Archery Harvest Tops 7,500 in 4 Days
The Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) October 5, 2026 harvest report, updated at 9:21 a.m., lists 7,554 reported deer harvested: 4,690 antlered and 2,864 antlerless. Bucks represent roughly 62% of the deer tagged, outpacing does by 1,826.
In the Lower Peninsula, the split is 4,256 antlered to 2,722 antlerless. Yes, we're barely into the season. These numbers will change. But that split reinforces the DNR's case for changing Michigan's buck-first hunting habits.
This report doesn't include ages or antler sizes. But still, how many of those bucks could have used another season to grow into beasts? How many got tagged because four points were enough for a victory photo?
Michigan's One-Buck Limit Starts in 2027
The Michigan Natural Resources Commission (NRC) approved a one-buck limit for Lower Peninsula hunters beginning in 2027. A five-county "earn a second buck" pilot program will include Barry, Hillsdale, Ingham, Kalamazoo, and Lapeer. Participants must harvest and report an antlerless deer to qualify for a bonus tag.
Michigan Hunters Still Need to Harvest Does
Where Lower Peninsula herds need thinning, antlerless opportunities remain available. Limiting bucks won't automatically make hunters shoot does. That said, Michigan hunters have earned that "buck-fever" reputation. Plenty of season remains to change the numbers and bring a better balance to the harvest report.
RELATED: Why Michigan Wants Hunters to Harvest More Does
Fill the freezer. Venison chili doesn't require antlers.
2026 Liberty Hunt Harvest Report for All 83 Michigan Counties
Gallery Credit: Scott Clow
2025 Michigan Deer Season All Seasons Harvest Report
Gallery Credit: Scott Clow