Can You Carry A Pistol While Bow Hunting In Michigan?
If you have a Concealed Pistol License in Michigan, you can carry concealed or open. If you do not have a CPL, you cannot conceal carry. When carrying a handgun without a CPL, handguns must be carried in plain view. You may not take any game with a handgun while bow hunting.
A rifle, shotgun, muzzleloader, or bow may be of limited use when in an defense situation. More states are allowing hunters, including archery, to legally carry a handgun for personal defense. If you are trained and comfortable using a gun for defensive purposes, then you should carry one while hunting, same as you would any other time.
Handgun Regulation for Non CPL Holders
- Individuals must be at least 18 years of age to hunt with or possess a handgun.
- Handguns cannot be borrowed or loaned to another person other than provided for under the CPL.
- Handguns must be carried in plain view.
- Carrying a handgun in a holster in plain view is permitted.
Resources:
On state land?
You should be able to, given that you are allowed to target shoot on state game areas provided you have clear and defined targets that are not mounted to trees. Here is a page I found from a quick google search on the topic: https://www.michigan.gov/dnr/0,4570,7-350-79136_79772_79773_83478-31584–,00.html .
Does it say you can open carry a handgun without a CPL while bow hunting?
See opinion No. 7123 dated February 11, 2003 by Mike Cox. Bottom of pg. 225
I got a ticket for it today and I have my CPL. http://www.legislature.mi.gov/documents/publications/firearms.pdf