Mitchell State Park - Elk Hunting Clinic

This class is designed for those who want to learn how to hunt Michigan elk on their own or better understand what to expect if hunting with a guide. Whether you are applying for a tag, building preference points or have been fortunate enough to draw a Michigan elk license, this clinic will help you prepare for the experience of a lifetime. Important: This is NOT the mandatory orientation required by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources Wildlife Division for successful elk license holders. This class does not replace the required elk hunter orientation. This is an educational seminar designed to prepare you beyond the minimum requirements. Michigan’s elk herd is one of the Midwest’s greatest conservation success stories. Participants will gain practical knowledge about elk behavior, scouting techniques, calling strategies, habitat use, gear selection, physical preparation, shot placement, and recovery strategies specific to Michigan’s terrain. The class will cover: Understanding Michigan’s elk zones and terrain. Applying and building preference points. What to expect if you draw a tag. Hiring and working with a guide vs. DIY hunting. Physical conditioning and gear preparation. Elk behavior during Michigan’s hunt periods. Scouting with maps and digital tools. Shot placement and ethical considerations. Meat care and field recovery logistics. Taxidermy considerations and trophy care. The class will begin in the classroom and include hands-on demonstrations of gear, calling techniques and scenario discussions based on real Michigan elk hunts. Students will leave with a clearer understanding of how to prepare, what to expect in the field and how to increase their odds of success. Cost is $30. To register for this class, go to Michigan.gov/DNRLicenses and click on the "Purchase a license" button. Sign in (using either a username and password or your ID and birthdate) , and find the class under the Outdoor Skills Academy tab. Cancellation policy: To cancel your registration, please contact our Customer Service help desk line at 800-737-6367. Cancellations made up to 14 days prior to the program will be completely refunded to the original form of payment. If you cancel after the two-week deadline, no refund will be issued. For more information, email DNR-HFC@Michigan.gov or call 231-779-1321. A Recreation Passport is required for entry into Mitchell State Park. This class is part of the Department of Natural Resources Outdoor Skills Academy, which offers in-depth, expert instruction, gear and hands-on learning for a range of outdoor activities at locations around the state. Learn more at Michigan.gov/OutdoorSkills.