By Staff
LANSING – The Michigan Department of Natural Resources recently announced the 2007 spring wild turkey application period runs through Feb. 1.
Hunters may apply at any authorized license dealer, at DNR Operations Service Centers or online at www.michigan.gov/dnr.
The spring wild turkey season is April 23 through May 31 and will last from seven to 31 days, depending on the hunt unit. A total of 118,440 licenses (53,440 general licenses and 65,000 private land licenses) are available through a lottery for the hunter-limited hunt periods. This year, there are 48,147 square miles open to hunting in Michigan compared to 46,305 square miles in 2006.
"The current hunting regulations are established to maximize hunting opportunity while maintaining high-quality hunting experiences," said Al Stewart, DNR upland game bird specialist. "We are able to expand hunting opportunities based on the success of Michigan's wild turkey restoration program."
During the application process, it is important that hunters verify their customer ID (Michigan Driver License, DNR Sportcard or state of Michigan ID card) numbers. An incorrect customer ID number will cause individuals to become ineligible for a license.
Hunters may use MasterCard, VISA, American Express or Discover when applying or purchasing a license via the DNR Web site, which is available 24 hours a day during the application period.
Hunt No. 234 (May 7-31) licenses may be purchased online or from license agents during the application period. Individuals who select this option will not be charged the $4 application fee. Hunters also may select this hunt as a second choice on their application.
"Hunters looking for the greatest hunting flexibility should consider Hunt No. 234, which includes all open areas except public lands in Unit ZZ (southern Michigan)," Stewart said.
Applicants may check drawing results online beginning March 1. Applicants who did not apply online will be notified of drawing results by mail before March 7.
If limited quota licenses are still available after the drawing, the remaining licenses will be issued on a first-come, first-served basis to unsuccessful applicants in the license lottery. These individuals may purchase one leftover license in person at any license-issuing agent beginning March 8 at 10 a.m. EDT. Hunt No. 234 also is available to all unsuccessful applicants.
Beginning March 15 at 10 a.m., any limited quota licenses that remain will be available for purchase over the counter by individuals who did not apply for a spring turkey license. These licenses will be sold until the quota is met.
Hunters are reminded that it is unlawful to obtain or purchase more than one spring turkey hunting license.