Is the One Buck Rule Returning in 2027?

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is exploring ways to improve deer hunting in the state and is now considering implementing a possible one-buck rule for the 2027 season.

Michigan Once Had a One Buck Rule

At one time, deer in Michigan were hunted for commercial meat sales, which sharply reduced their numbers. Two key developments later helped reverse the decline in the deer population.

The Lacey Act of 1900 made it a federal crime to transport game meat across state lines, effectively ending the commercial harvesting of deer. The second factor that helped restore the deer population was the implementation of the one-buck rule in 1921, which remained in effect for over 30 years. By 1956, the DNR recognized that hunters needed to harvest some antlerless deer to maintain a balanced herd.

In 1986, Michigan introduced the second-buck license, allowing hunters to purchase an additional tag for either firearms or archery season. However, this led to a situation where hunters could obtain two archery tags and two firearm tags, potentially harvesting four bucks. In 1991, the rule was adjusted to limit hunters to just two bucks.

Read More: Wildlife Commissioner Faces Elk Poaching Allegations

Since 1956, the DNR has issued doe permits in various ways. While many hunters have harvested antlerless deer, these efforts have not effectively managed deer populations or balanced buck-to-doe ratios. New changes are now being considered to better address Michigan’s deer numbers.

One Buck Rule Debate Heats Up Ahead of 2027

The DNR is scheduled to meet this week to discuss significant changes to Michigan’s whitetail deer hunting regulations. A major topic on the agenda is the potential return of the one-buck rule in 2027. Under the proposed system, a combo deer license would allow hunters to harvest either one antlered and one antlerless deer, or two antlerless deer.

The DNR is establishing separate regulations for the Upper and Lower Peninsulas, as each region faces different challenges with its deer herds. In the U.P., where harsher weather causes deer to migrate, the DNR plans to shorten the muzzleloader season to just three days, since fewer hunters participate compared to the archery and firearm seasons. The L.P. will get its muzzleloader season renamed to December firearms season to help with reducing the number of antlerless deer.

Another key regulation change is rescheduling the December firearms season for antlerless deer to start immediately after the muzzleloader season ends. To view all of the DNR's proposed changes, click here.

Get our free mobile app

These changes will make hunting more exciting and increase chances of seeing more bucks after a few years. Plus, taking more antlerless deer will create a better balance for the herd, and in the long term reduce deer-auto accidents while making whitetail hunting better than it's ever been. These changes take time and patience.

👇BELOW: 2025 Michigan Deer Season All Seasons Harvest Report👇