LANSING, Mich. (Michigan News Source) – A successful opening day of firearm deer season is in the books. The Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) reports that hunters harvested more than 18,000 deer on Wednesday.

However the DNR said despite the successful start, there is a notable decline in hunting license sales this year. That has resulted in nearly 300,000 fewer hunters statewide compared to 1995.

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Early archery deer hunting season saw a decline this year with the DNR reporting 13% fewer deer harvested compared to last year.

Firearm deer season runs through November 30. Archery season picks back up on December 1 and runs through New Year’s Day. For more information on Michigan’s hunting seasons click here.