The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is expanding its eHarvest digital tagging system to include big game and predators such as bobcats, otters, fishers and martens. The system is a modern and convenient alternative to traditional paper tags for hunters.

“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, DNR chief technology officer.

Beginning with the 2026 license year, hunters will have the option to tag harvested animals digitally through the Michigan DNR Hunt Fish mobile app. The digital tagging expansion follows successful pilot programs for turkey eHarvest tagging in 2024 and 2025, and represents another step in Michigan’s effort to modernize hunting services and improve customer convenience.

Hunters should ensure they have the most recent version of the app to take advantage of the eHarvest tags. The updated version is available in the app store by searching for Michigan DNR Hunt Fish. If the app store indicates “get” or “install,” then download the new version.

Digital eHarvest tags are optional. Traditional paper tags will continue to be available through eLicense and at retail agents for hunters who prefer them. Kill tags purchased through the app will be digital eHarvest tags. Those purchased via eLicense or at a retail agent will be traditional paper tags.

No tagging of the animal is required as long as the licensed hunter is in possession of the animal. This includes when the animal is transferred directly to a processor or taxidermist or stored at the hunter’s primary residence. Hunters need to create a physical tag only when not in possession of a harvested animal. When the animal leaves the licensed hunter’s possession, a durable tag with the license number clearly written should be attached to it.

Bear, bobcat, fisher, marten and otter are still required to be sealed at a DNR office.

Digital tag validation is immediately recorded and timestamped on the user’s device. Cellular service is not required at the time of validation. Digital eHarvest tags are available 24 hours a day through the Michigan DNR Hunt Fish mobile app. Reduced printing and distribution costs help keep more funding available for conservation programs. Immediate validation requirements remain in place, ensuring continued compliance and data accuracy.