By Staff
LANSING - The Department of Natural Resources announced today that policies regarding the availability of leftover spring turkey hunting licenses have changed, making the spring season consistent with procedures for the fall season. This change was announced at the Natural Resources Commission meeting Thursday.
Previously, only unsuccessful applicants in the lottery drawing were eligible to purchase a leftover license. Beginning on Wednesday, individuals who did not participate in the drawing will be allowed to purchase a leftover license for the 2006 spring turkey quota-limited hunts. This change does not include Hunt 234, which will continue to be available only to unsuccessful applicants.
Individuals may purchase one leftover license in person on a first-come, first-served basis from any authorized Michigan hunting license agent, until the quota is met for each hunt unit. It is unlawful to obtain or purchase more than one spring turkey hunting license.
Leftover license availability for each hunt unit is published at www.michigan.gov/dnr, or click here for the list of leftover licenses. Hunters who need assistance purchasing a leftover license should call the DNR at 517-373-3904 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m.
Managing wild turkeys in Michigan involves complex interactions between turkeys, their habitat and people. The goal of the spring wild turkey hunting season is to maximize hunter opportunity while maintaining a satisfactory hunting experience. Only bearded turkeys may be harvested in the spring season. This conservative harvest approach has allowed the continued growth and expansion of the wild turkey population in Michigan, DNR wildlife officials said.