Best Places to Hunt in the Upper Peninsula
Considering the amount of forest land in the Upper Peninsula, it doesn’t come as much surprise that this area happens to be a hunter’s paradise. Here, you can find black bear, whitetail deer, turkey, and grouse, along with smaller game that can all give you a chance to test your hunting skills as you enjoy being surrounded by wilderness. Yet, the sheer size of the area might leave you wondering where are the best places to hunt in the Upper Peninsula. Following this guide will help you figure out where to go and how to prepare for a hunting trip that will take you to one of the most amazing places to spend time outdoors in the country.
Check Out the National Forest Lands
Many of the top places to hunt in the Upper Peninsula exist within the national forest lands that cover a large swath of the area. You’ll need to make sure that you are fully licensed and permitted to hunt in the national forest, but choosing to look for game within clearly defined public land boundaries makes it easier to avoid a costly mistake. When you’re trying to figure out where to visit in the U.P., looking for national forest land that is located close to historic towns gives you the perfect place to spend your time both on and off the hunting field.
Ottawa National Forest
Ironwood happens to be one of those cozy Upper Peninsula towns that are known for being committed to catering to people who enjoy the outdoor lifestyle. In town, you’ll find the Ottawa National Forest’s Supervisor’s Office and Bessemer Ranger Station, which can give you insight into some of the best places to go hunting in the forest. For instance, you might opt to take the Morrison Creek Hunter Trail, which is flat and relatively easy to walk. You can also get information from your friendly rangers in Ironwood about the latest trail conditions and warnings to help you stay safe on your hunt.
Hiawatha National Forest
This national forest area is another one of the best places to hunt in the Upper Peninsula, and it’s easy to see why when there are almost a million acres of public land to explore. Similar to other national forests, Hiawatha offers amenities such as camping areas where you can set up for the perfect hunt. Keep in mind that there is currently a serious concern about abandoned blinds on public lands. Make sure to only use temporary hunting blinds and follow the guidelines regarding the timing of their placement and removal. Following the best practices for hunter safety also means that the public lands will stay safe and open to people pursuing game.
Use the Mi-HUNT Access Map
Knowing your boundaries is critical when you’re hunting in unfamiliar territory. Finding places to hunt in the Upper Peninsula has been made easier with this application map that provides the locations of the boundaries of both public and private lands that are open to hunters. The map provides you with information about the ground cover types, and you can even locate nearby trails and recreational facilities that might be helpful to know about during your trip.
Visit a Managed Waterfowl Hunt Area
Often referred to as Wetland Wonders, these areas are created to support wetland wildlife’s nesting and migration habits. Although some locations have daily drawings for free hunting permits, others allow open hunting during the regular season. If you’re staying in Ironwood, check out the Sturgeon River Sloughs State Wildlife area for a Managed Waterfowl Hunt Area within just a couple of hours from your home base.
Explore the Grouse Enhanced Management Sites
Bird hunters can rejoice now that they have their own special map that gives them access to the best places to hunt in the Upper Peninsula. Not only do these sites give you the best chance at achieving your goal, but they also offer walking trails that make your hunting trip safer and more enjoyable. First-time hunters and people with mobility challenges tend to love these groups hunting sites for their accessibility, but they can get busy during the prime hunting season.
Look at a List of Private Properties That Are Open to Hunters
Michigan’s Hunting Access Program (HAP) has been expanding for years, and it provides hunters with information regarding private land that is open to hunting. Usually, these private lands are located in areas where there is a need for wildlife management to protect local agriculture or support disease management. If you opt to hunt on these private lands, then you’ll need to follow the appropriate registration guidelines and follow all of the rules laid out by the property owner. You’ll also want to follow the usual hunting season dates and regulations for the area while being careful to do your part to protect the property along with the safety of anyone else who might be using the space.
Follow These Tips for a Successful U.P. Hunting Trip
The Upper Peninsula is filled with some of the best places to hunt in the world, but the natural environment can come with some hazards. Once you’ve figured out where to visit in the U.P. and your hunting route, make sure to tell someone where you are going, along with when you’ll be leaving and what time you’ll be back. Checking the local conditions before you head out can also prevent you from being caught in a sudden flash flood or unexpected snowstorm.
Practicing proper firearm safety is also a must. If you have new or young hunters in the group, then remember to go over the best practices for handling a firearm before you go out. Once you’re out in the field, make sure to stay alert to all changes in your environment. Knowing what’s behind your target helps you know when it is safe to shoot and when to hold your fire.
In the U.P., private and public property boundaries are often intermingled within forest areas, and you’ll need to obtain a landowner’s permission before you retrieve game that goes onto private property, especially when you see a “no trespassing” sign. Wearing as much hunter orange as you possibly can further increase your safety by making you more visible to other hunters and identifiable as a hunter to anyone who crosses your path.
If you’re hunting under a special permit or license, then remember to follow the guidelines regarding the timing, location, and special circumstances of your hunt. Hunting for game in one of the most beautiful places in the world is a privilege worth respecting as much as you do the wildlife in your sight.
As you plan your hunting trip, remember that Upper Peninsula towns such as Ironwood have a wealth of amenities that you can use to your advantage. Whether you need to sight your rifle or want to take a few practice shots, you might want to find a place where you can stay near a local shooting range. Or, you might just want to know that there’s a comfortable diner nearby where you can grab a hearty breakfast before you head out for your hunt. Planning for every aspect of your stay can turn an ordinary hunting trip into an amazing adventure, even when you’re taking a break from the trails. Contact Travel Ironwood to further discuss the best places to hunt in the Upper Peninsula.