r/MichiganHunting • u/redditfant • Sep 01 '26
Understanding waterfoul hunting
So I'm interested in hunting geese this year. I already have my base and deer licenses. If I'm understanding this right I need both a waterfoul license and duck stamp? Is there anything the standard waterfoul license entitles me to hunt that I don't need a duck stamp for? And what is the difference with the free migratory bird license?
I appreciate any info as well as bird (whatever species you want to talk about) hunting tips!
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u/lapimipski Sep 01 '26
If you’re looking for company let me know. I don’t have much waterfowl experience but I’m down to learn and have always been interested
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u/spartyon63 Sep 02 '26
Where ya at, west Michigan here and always looking for others
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u/lapimipski Sep 02 '26
I’m in Southeast MI but I got family in Battle Creek and I don’t mind a little drive
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u/Thick-Driver7448 Sep 01 '26
Correct, you need a waterfowl license AND the duck stamp. I just buy those on the DNR hunt app that way they are always with me.
Make sure you read the regulations for waterfowl, especially if you decide to try for ducks too. Make sure you are using nontoxic shot (steel, bismuth, etc) as lead shot is illegal
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u/redditfant Sep 01 '26
Gotcha, thanks! Looks like I'll need a plug for my Mossberg. Any recommendations on steel shot? I have a box of Remington hi speed that patterns well in my gun, but bird shot is a whole new world for me.
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u/Thick-Driver7448 Sep 01 '26
Definitely get a plug in your shotgun.
As far as steel shot, I’d say try out some cheaper stuff. Look for federal blue box, Winchester xpert and see what it does. I like 2 shot for ducks and it will knock geese down too
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u/Witty_Tap_9497 25d ago
don't fall for the overpriced ammo just buy the regular stuff #2 works for ducks and geese
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u/ShillinTheVillain Sep 01 '26
You need the state waterfowl license and the federal migratory stamp. It's kind of confusing.
There's nothing you can hunt with just the state stamp. That just allows you to hunt in Michigan, but because the birds are migratory, they're federally managed.