Michigan Starts New Coyote Hunting Season

The season runs from today through October 14th to address overpopulation issues.

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The state of Michigan has opened a new coyote hunting and trapping season that will run from today, March 2, 2026, through October 14th. The Michigan Department of Natural Resources says the season is designed to address an overabundance of coyotes in the state and mitigate conflicts between coyotes and other species.

Why it matters

Coyote populations have been growing in Michigan, leading to increased interactions with humans, pets, and other wildlife. The new hunting season aims to help manage the coyote population and reduce negative impacts on the local ecosystem.

The details

Hunters must have a base license from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources to legally kill coyotes. All trappers and out-of-state hunters also need to obtain a fur harvester license. Coyote hunting with dogs is prohibited between April 16th and July 7th.

  • The new coyote hunting and trapping season starts today, March 2, 2026.
  • The season will run through October 14, 2026.

The players

Michigan Department of Natural Resources

The state agency responsible for managing Michigan's natural resources, including wildlife populations.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

The takeaway

This new coyote hunting season is an effort by Michigan to proactively manage its growing coyote population and mitigate conflicts between coyotes and other species, including humans and pets.