Michigan seniors age 65 and older can now take advantage of a discounted hunt/fish combo license, making it more affordable to enjoy the state’s abundant hunting and fishing opportunities in 2024. The Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has introduced the new senior hunt/fish combo license, which includes a fishing license valid for all legal species, a base hunting license, and two deer licenses for just $43.
Previously, seniors who wanted to purchase a hunt/fish combo license had to pay the regular price of $76. The only way to get a senior discount was to buy the licenses separately as individual senior licenses. However, the newly packaged discounted license, available for purchase starting April 14, 2014, provides a convenient and cost-effective option for seniors to enjoy both hunting and fishing in Michigan.
Eligibility and Benefits of the Senior Hunt/Fish Combo License
To be eligible for the senior hunt/fish combo license, Michigan residents must be at least 65 years old. The $43 license includes the following benefits:
- Fishing license valid for all legal species
- Base hunting license
- Two deer licenses
Seniors who purchased the regular hunt/fish combo license for $76 before the discounted license was available will receive a refund of $33 from the DNR, which is the difference between the regular and senior prices. The DNR will be sending letters to eligible seniors within the next three weeks, offering them the option to receive their refund via check from the State of Michigan.
How to Purchase the Senior Hunt/Fish Combo License
The senior hunt/fish combo license can be purchased online at Michigan.gov/DNRLicenses, through the Michigan DNR Hunt Fish app, or in person at any agent that sells Michigan licenses. A list of license agents is available at Michigan.gov/DNRLicenseAgents.
When purchasing the license, seniors must have one of the following forms of identification:
- Valid Michigan driver’s license or valid nonresident driver’s license
- State of Michigan ID card (issued by the Secretary of State)
- DNR Sportcard (issued through license agents, at Michigan.gov/DNRLicenses or on the DNR Hunt Fish app)
It’s important to note that when hunting or trapping, seniors must carry their license and present it upon demand of a Michigan conservation officer, a tribal conservation officer, or any law enforcement officer.
Additional Senior Discounts on Hunting and Fishing Licenses
In addition to the senior hunt/fish combo license, Michigan offers several other discounted licenses for seniors age 65 and older:
- Senior annual fishing license: $11
- Senior base hunting license: $5
- Senior deer license: $8
- Senior deer combo: $28
- Senior spring turkey license: $6
Seniors can find more information on these discounts and other updates in the latest fishing guide or hunting digests available from the Department of Natural Resources.
The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is committed to providing affordable access to the state’s natural resources for all residents, including seniors. By offering discounted licenses and packages like the senior hunt/fish combo, the DNR aims to encourage more seniors to enjoy the benefits of hunting and fishing in Michigan.