LANSING, Mich. (Michigan News Source) – Beginning with the 2026 license year, Michigan hunters will be able to tag deer and several other game species digitally, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) announced.

The expanded eHarvest system will allow hunters to tag deer, turkey, bear, bobcat, otter, fisher and marten through the Michigan DNR Hunt Fish mobile app, offering an alternative to traditional paper tags. The digital option is voluntary, and paper tags will still be available through eLicense and retail license agents.

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State officials say the change is designed to make the tagging process more convenient while improving efficiency behind the scenes.

“Expanding the eHarvest system improves hunter convenience, increases efficiency and reduces administrative costs while allowing us to direct more resources toward wildlife conservation and habitat management,” said Tom Weston, the DNR’s chief technology officer.

The move comes after successful turkey eHarvest pilot programs in 2024 and 2025. With the expansion, Michigan joins a growing number of states adopting digital tagging systems aimed at improving convenience and data accuracy while maintaining enforcement standards.

Digital tags purchased through the Hunt Fish app will be available around the clock beginning March 1. Hunters who purchase licenses through eLicense or retail agents will continue to receive traditional paper tags.