Michigan

Michigan is an excellent destination for bird and waterfowl hunting, offering diverse habitats and ample opportunities for hunters and their dogs. The state's varied landscape—from the Great Lakes and expansive wetlands to dense forests and prairie regions—creates ideal conditions for a wide range of bird species. Popular hunting spots like the Shiawassee River State Game Area near Owosso, the Saginaw Bay area, and the western Michigan marshes near Muskegon attract large populations of waterfowl each fall. These areas are known for their abundant migratory birds, including ducks, geese, and swans, which provide plenty of opportunities for hunters to use their dogs in the field. For upland bird hunters, the northern reaches of the Lower Peninsula, near cities like Gaylord and Traverse City, offer prime habitats for grouse, pheasant, and woodcock.

Michigan's focus on outdoor recreation and conservation ensures that hunting with dogs is an enjoyable and rewarding experience. The state's well-maintained public lands, such as the Allegan State Game Area and the Huron-Manistee National Forest, are perfect for hunters who want to work with their dogs while pursuing upland game birds in diverse terrain. In addition, Michigan's plentiful waterfowl zones, such as the expansive waters around the Detroit River and the Bay City State Recreation Area, are particularly well-suited for hunters using retrievers.