Michigan Trapping
License 2026
Complete guide to trapping licenses in Michigan — resident and nonresident fees, trap check hours, regulated species, pelt reporting requirements, and bobcat or otter permit rules. Michigan is a major fur-producing state with excellent populations of beaver, mink, muskrat, otter, marten, fisher, bobcat, coyote, and raccoon. A base license plus species-specific permits are required for certain furbearers. Michigan's Upper Peninsula is prime marten and fisher territory.
Michigan Trapping License Requirements
Michigan requires a valid trapping license to trap furbearing animals. Review all requirements before setting traps.
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Resident Fee | $15.00 |
| Nonresident Fee | $151.00 |
| Separate From Hunting License | Yes — separate purchase required |
| Trapper Education Required | Not required |
| Trap Check Requirement | Every 24 hours |
| Trap Tagging Required | Not required |
| Pelt Reporting Required | Yes |
| Bobcat Permit Required | Yes — separate permit |
| Otter Permit Required | Not required |
| Trap Type Restrictions | Foothold traps allowed with specific restrictions. Body-gripping traps regulated by size in specific situations. Significant restrictions near roads and developed areas. |
Trappable Species in Michigan
The following furbearing species may be legally trapped in Michigan with the appropriate license and during open seasons. Some species may require additional permits.