Buck fever! Hunters head out for firearm deer hunting season

PINCONNING, Mich. (WNEM) - Michigan is in buck fever as hunters get ready to head out for opening day of firearm deer season on Friday, Nov. 15.

Hunters have been waiting months for one of our state's unofficial holidays to begin.

They've been stocking up on supplies to bag that trophy buck. In Pinconning, business was booming. Northwoods Wholesale Outlet's store director said anything used to see, track, attract, and kill a deer has been flying out the door.

"It's been crazy here. Lots and lots of guys heading north which is good to see," Bob Wozniak said. "It's been a great two weeks. Deer movement, it's supposed to be cold... so it should be a great opener. Nice calm winds. It'd be nice if we got some snow but we'll take what we can get."

Hunters shopping at Northwoods said it's a family tradition and they hope it's made even sweeter with a big trophy buck.

"Hoping to see some action first thing in the morning. Hopefully get them does running through and get them big bigs chasing right after them," one hunter said.

"Quietness and relaxation and hopefully the big buck comes," another said.

"Just going up to do a little hunting hoping to see something that we can shoot. Whether it's buck, doe, we got tags for both," one shopper said.

"Real excited about spending time with family and hopefully getting a big, uh, big buck," another hunter added.

One kid even was looking forward to getting his big buck today, too.

There's also been an emphasis on staying safe.

If you're hunting, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) have a few safety reminders:

Treat every firearm as if it is loaded.

Be aware of your surroundings – know your target and what is beyond it.

Unload the firearm when crossing obstacles and/or getting in or out of a tree stand.

When transporting firearms in vehicles make sure that they are unloaded and in a case.

Obey no trespassing signs - they are there for a reason.

The DNR recommends that you wear as much hunter orange as possible to increase your visibility - orange and other colors do not impact deer's behavior.

Tell someone the specific time, duration and location that you will be hunting and schedule check-in times. Update your contact if plans change. Medical incidents are unplanned – staying in contact with someone who knows your plan could save your life.

Hunt with a partner and know your zone-of-fire.

Carry a two-way communication device that receives service in remote areas – such as a phone or two-way radio. Ensure the device is always within reach in case you need to call for help.

You can check out more safety reminders here. Don't forget to report your harvest after you get a deer.

Firearm deer hunting season goes until Nov. 30.