A Classic Midwest Tradition
Michigan is a top destination for rabbit hunters, offering a mix of rolling farmland, dense woods, and abandoned homesteads that create perfect habitat for cottontails and snowshoe hares. Good cover, such as dense brush and tree lines, along with briar patches, are essential elements of rabbit habitat, providing excellent concealment and feeding areas. The state’s varied landscape and long hunting season provide plenty of opportunity for hunters looking to enjoy classic small game action in the heart of the Midwest. Additionally, using dogs in rabbit hunting is common, as they play a crucial role in flushing out rabbits and enhancing the overall hunting experience. Beagles and other hounds, known for their keen sense of smell and spirited chase, are quintessential in tracking and chasing rabbits, making the hunt more exciting and successful.
Cottontail and Snowshoe Hare Habitat
Cottontail rabbits are common throughout Michigan’s southern and central regions, favoring brushy fence lines, overgrown fields, orchards, farm woodlots, thick grass, and other brushy areas. Rabbit sign, such as droppings and snipped twigs, and rabbit tracks in fresh snow are key indicators of rabbit activity in these habitats. Snowshoe hares are found in the northern part of the state, especially in the Upper Peninsula and northern Lower Peninsula, where dense conifer stands and young aspen cuts provide year-round cover.
Flushing Tactics for Rabbits
Cottontails prefer thick, tangled cover where they can hide from predators. The distinctive sound of beagles singing when they pick up a scent is a unique and memorable aspect of rabbit hunting. A successful rabbit drive is an effective hunting technique that involves rousting rabbits with the help of dogs, where hunters strategically position themselves to drive rabbits towards waiting standers. Hunters should focus on kicking brush piles, working along thick hedgerows, and pushing through overgrown field edges. Flushing tactics should also include identifying rabbit runs and being prepared for a running rabbit as it flees from disturbed grass and brush. Snowshoe hares often hold tight in thick spruce and fir, and still-hunting through this type of cover, especially after fresh snowfall, can lead to fast-paced action. When preparing to flush a rabbit from its hiding spot, hunters often hold their shotguns at port arms while kicking a brush pile to encourage a rabbit to leap out, ready to shoot quickly. Early morning and late afternoon are prime times when rabbits are most active.
Best Areas to Hunt
Southern Michigan offers excellent cottontail hunting across agricultural areas and state game lands, including Allegan, Barry, and Lapeer counties. Hunters often utilize pinch points in these areas, strategically positioning themselves at narrow passages to effectively ambush rabbits being flushed out. Snow conditions, particularly fresh snow, significantly affect hunting success in these areas by enhancing scent tracking for dogs and creating ideal hunting circumstances. Organized rabbit drives are a popular technique, where hunters position themselves at set locations while drivers move through heavy cover to flush rabbits towards them. Deer hunters often transition to rabbit hunting after deer season ends, highlighting the seasonal shift in hunting activities. For snowshoe hares, head north to areas like the Hiawatha National Forest, Ottawa National Forest, and state forests surrounding Grayling and Gaylord. Public land access is abundant, with thousands of acres open to small game hunting. Strategic positioning at a stand is crucial during these hunts, as it maximizes the chances of spotting and shooting rabbits while they're being driven out of cover.
Gear and Strategy
A 20- or 12-gauge shotgun loaded with light shot is perfect for flushing rabbits from dense cover. Quick reflexes and high-speed shooting are essential as rabbits are agile and often escape quickly. Considering the use of a single shot firearm can add a nostalgic touch and requires precise shooting, especially at close range. Using a modified choke allows for quick shouldering and effective shooting. A .22 rifle is a good choice for still-hunting or taking longer shots in open woods. Brush pants, waterproof boots, and layered clothing will keep you comfortable while navigating Michigan’s varied terrain. Moving slowly, keeping your eyes low to the ground, and listening for rustling or movement are key to success. Having a clear shooting lane is crucial for effective and quick shots. Reflecting on those early hunting days, many hunters fondly remember their first lucky shot, attributing it to a stroke of luck rather than skill.
Conclusion
Rabbit hunting in Michigan is a time-honored pursuit that combines tradition, skill, and an appreciation for the outdoors. Whether you’re busting through thick brush for a cottontail or slipping through a snowy cedar swamp after a snowshoe hare, Michigan’s fields and forests offer some of the best rabbit hunting in the Midwest. Each hunt is a memorable moment, filled with the joy and exhilaration of the chase, creating lasting impressions of the outdoors and the bond shared with nature. Good luck, and enjoy the camaraderie that comes with every hunt!
FAQs
What species of rabbits can I hunt in Michigan?
Cottontail rabbits and snowshoe hares are both available. For many hunters, the cottontail rabbit is often the 'first game animal' they harvest, marking the beginning of their hunting journey and fostering a deep appreciation for nature.
When is rabbit hunting season in Michigan?
Rabbit season typically runs from September through the end of March, with the winter months being a prime time for rabbit hunting in Michigan. Always check current regulations.
Reflecting on childhood memories, many recall how morning chores, like gathering eggs, often preceded exciting rabbit hunting adventures.
What firearm is best for Michigan rabbit hunting?
A 20- or 12-gauge shotgun or a .22 rifle, depending on hunting style and terrain.
When hunting rabbits, aiming for a head shot is crucial for precision and effectiveness, especially when the rabbits are moving. There are moments when the shotgun seems to fire of its own accord, capturing the instinctive nature of the hunt and creating unforgettable experiences.
Where are the best areas to hunt rabbits?
Southern counties for cottontails; northern forests for snowshoe hares. Heavy cover, such as thick vegetation like cedar and hemlock, is an important consideration for the best areas to hunt rabbits. Selecting locations where most rabbits tend to hide, such as brushy areas, grass, and nearby marshy fields, can significantly increase your chances of success.
Can I hunt rabbits on public land?
Yes, Michigan offers abundant public hunting access on state game areas and national forests, with extensive public land available for hunting. Public land access is particularly important for small game hunters, who can find excellent opportunities for rabbit hunting during the late-season conditions.
What’s the best time of day to hunt rabbits?
Early morning and late afternoon are the most productive times. Additionally, a sunny day with rising temperatures after a cold spell can lead to increased rabbit activity, making these days ideal for hunting. Employing one hunter positioned strategically while others flush the rabbits can further enhance the effectiveness of your hunting strategy.
What gear should I bring?
Brush pants, waterproof boots, layered clothing, a reliable shotgun or rifle, and a game bag are essential pieces of gear for rabbit hunting.
Additionally, bird dogs play a crucial role in driving rabbits during hunts, working alongside other breeds like beagles to flush out rabbits and enhance the overall hunting experience.
Are rabbits good to eat?
Yes, both cottontails and snowshoe hares, often affectionately referred to as bunnies, provide excellent table fare. When it comes to hunting, targeting a squirrel requires different techniques and shot sizes due to their tougher skin and resilience compared to rabbits. Additionally, the taste of squirrels is often compared to that of rabbits, with many hunters noting the distinct flavors and the unique challenges each animal presents.
How do I track snowshoe hares in snow?
Follow fresh tracks leading to dense cover, especially in young forests and spruce stands.
Is hunting snowshoe hares different from hunting cottontails?
Yes, each game animal requires different hunting techniques; snowshoe hares are more reliant on camouflage and tend to inhabit thicker, colder habitats. Snow-covered environments are an important consideration for the different habitats of snowshoe hares and cottontails.