How to Find Properties to Lease for Hunting in Lower Michigan

The Lower Peninsula of Michigan contains a high density of trophy whitetail bucks that draw many hunters. Leasing a property ensures a premium hunting spot without interference from other hunters. This part of Michigan has an abundance of hunting land for lease. Become familiar with the area and the leasing market to give yourself the greatest opportunity to bag a trophy buck, teach children basic skills or simply enjoy a hunting vacation with your friends.

Instructions

    • 1

      Locate the area where you want to lease land. Each county in Lower Michigan contains a different landscape and hunting conditions. Conditions such as foliage, feed availability, tree cover and water sources determine the population density of whitetail deer in an area. Familiarize yourself with potential hunting areas by looking over maps, talking with local Michigan Department of Natural Resources officers and discussing land characteristics with other hunters.

    • 2

      Determine the price range you're comfortable with. The cost of leasing hunting property in Lower Michigan varies widely and depends on several factors. The size of the land you lease will play a significant role, and the density of trophy whitetail bucks in the area also affects the price of leasing land. Typical parcels of land for lease contain at least 40 acres. Larger plots and those located in prime hunting territory cost more to lease. Many landowners charge on a per-hunter basis and a large hunting group will increase your cost.

    • 3

      Search postings for land for lease. The site Base Camp Leasing (www.basecampleasing.com) contains dozens of listings for the entire state of Michigan and many in the Lower Peninsula. The site is divided by county with a listing of properties and important information such as lot size, number of hunters allowed and cost. Sites like Craigslist (craigslist.org) may also contain land for lease notices. Local newspapers from towns near the area you want to lease also contain listings of available leases and contact information. Ask at local establishments such as sporting goods stores for other land that may be available for lease.

    • 4

      Negotiate a lease contract. Be explicit with the terms of the contract. For example, key variables such as dates, prices, number of hunters allowed on the property and conditions of use should be spelled out in transparent language. Avoid vague contracts as they can complicate the leasing process and diminish the hunting experience.