Michigan DNR Wants to Limit Deer Hunters to One Buck Starting in 2027

UPDATE: The proposed law discussed below was passed by the Michigan Natural Resources Committee after 9 hours of discussion on May 13, 2026. Click below for the latest:

UPDATE: Michigan DNR Passes Controversial ‘One Buck’ Rule for 2027

For generations, Michigan deer hunters have had the option to harvest two antlered whitetails per season. Apparently, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has taken a long look at that and said, "What if we made your first buck count a little more?"

A proposed "one buck rule" would limit hunters to one antlered deer statewide beginning in 2027. In Michigan's Lower Peninsula, a single deer license would become antlerless-only, meaning if you want a buck, you'd need to purchase a combo-license.

Why the DNR Supports a One Buck Rule

The DNR says Michigan hunters have a serious case of buck fever. Translation: many hunters pass on does like they're kale on a buffet line. By limiting hunters to one buck, the goal is to:

• Increase the number of older bucks
• Improve buck-to-doe ratio
• Encourage more antlerless harvest
• Boost overall hunter satisfaction.

According to the DNR, about 32,000 bucks harvested each year are a hunter's second buck, so the change could leave more antlered deer in the woods. Without a second buck, some may take another doe, culling the herd and taking more potential CWD and EHD carriers off the board.

Have Your Say on Michigan's Proposed 'One Buck' Rule

This is still a proposal, not a done deal. Hunters can submit comments through the Michigan DNR Conservation Order process or by contacting the Michigan Natural Resources Commission.

RELATED: Michigan's Apex Predator: 2025 a Record Year for Verified Cougar Sightings in Michigan

One buck. One shot (hopefully). One story your buddies will hear approximately 8,000 times.