With 70 percent of its’ property owned by the state and federal government and open to the public, Crawford County is a hunter’s dream. Various types of terrain yield trophy sized bucks, snowshoe hares, squirrels, turkey, grouse, woodcock and waterfowl.
There is an abundance of upland forest types including Oak, Aspen, Maple and Jack Pine. There are many swamps in the area which contain Cedar browse for deer. The county is nearly 70% owned by the federal or state entities and thus there is a great deal of ground open to the public. Rifle, archery, and muzzleloading seasons are held. Youth hunts and antlerless deer permits are also available.
For specific details and regulations see the DNR website. For local information see Skip’s Sport Shop. For sighting or target practice, contact the Grayling Sportsman’s Club at 989-348-8899. They are located at 6990 Old Lake Road in Grayling. Find DNR hunting maps here.
Many bear are taken in the area each year. For those who are interested in hunting the animals, it is advisable to check local sport shops to obtain information on where to go.
Turkeys are also plentiful in the county and can be found in upland areas as well as valleys where many seed bearing trees are available.
Bird hunters will find Ruffed Grouse (Partridge) plentiful. They are often found in Aspen stands and along swamp edges. Woodcock are also available in many areas.
Black, Gray and Fox Squirrels can also be found in plentiful supply here. Although they can be found virtually anywhere, the greatest success can be found near mature Oaks where there is ample nesting cover.
Snowshoe Hare as well as Cottontail Rabbits can be found in the county although many more Snowshoes than Cottontails are available. A dog is recommended in the thick swampy areas where the snowshoes are likely to be found. It is possible to take the animals without a dog by patiently stalking them.
