Five-day quiet period ahead of firearm deer season starts Nov. 10 in Michigan

BERRIEN COUNTY, Mich. -- The fall tradition of deer hunting season is here, and firearm season starts Nov. 15. In the five days leading up to the start of the season, there is a five-day quiet period where certain firearm restrictions will be in place.

"During these five days, unless hunting for small game, waterfowl or fur harvesting, it is unlawful to transport or possess a rifle or shotgun with buckshot, slug load, ball load or cut shell in an area frequented by deer," the Michigan Department of Natural Resources said.

Unloaded guns that are securely encased or carried in the trunk of a vehicle can still be transported to or from a hunting camp.

“Hunters know that they are on the cusp of another Michigan firearm deer season once we enter into the five-day quiet period,” said Capt. Pete Wright, DNR Law Enforcement Division.

"Those critical days create a window of time, just before the opener, when hunters can catch their breath, and the woods have a chance to calm. This period is like pushing a reset button, allowing deer to settle back into their day-to-day patterns, which in turn increases the chances of a successful hunt.”

Fur harvesters may carry rimfire firearms (.22-caliber or smaller) while actively hunting or checking traplines during the open furbearing animal season.

Anyone can call 800-292-7800 to report trespassing, shooting or other related natural resource violations.