| Window | Dates | Days |
|---|---|---|
| Window 1 | 15 SEP – 14 NOV 2026 | 61d |
| Window 2 | 01 DEC 2026 – 01 JAN 2027 | 32d |
As publishedSept 15-Nov 14, 2026 and Dec 1, 2026-Jan 1, 2027 (statewide)
Statewide, single continuous season definition with a mid-winter gap (not two separate openings). Bag limit differs by zone: 5 daily/10 possession in Zones 1-2, 3 daily/6 possession in Zone 3. No HIP requirement (not a migratory species).
Ruffed grouse is open statewide in Michigan, but the bag limit itself is zoned in a way that functions as a density proxy: 5 daily/10 possession in Zones 1 and 2 (the Upper Peninsula and the northern Lower Peninsula) versus 3 daily/6 possession in Zone 3 (the entire southern Lower Peninsula), a materially lower limit reflecting the agricultural south's much lower forest cover and grouse density relative to the forested north. The Grouse Enhanced Management System (GEMS, 19 named sites) sits entirely within Zones 1 and 2, reinforcing that this is where the state itself concentrates grouse-habitat investment.
Michigan's spring drumming count came in up slightly from last year, a surprise since counts were expected to dip further into the population's typical cycle. The increase was small, so expect a season similar to 2025, possibly a touch better. Spring weather across most of the state was favorable for production this year; focus on dense young aspen or lowland brush with good food availability.
Spring drumming counts up slightly on favorable spring weather, though the increase itself was small.
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