Pure Michigan hunt applications available.

With archery deer season under way and firearm season right around the corner, the Department of Natural Resources reminds hunters, when buying their deer licenses, to take a moment to purchase their Pure Michigan Hunt applications.

The Pure Michigan Hunt began in 2009, and since then 15 lucky Michigan residents have won the hunt of a lifetime. Three winners are randomly drawn each year to win a package of hunting licenses and over $4,000 in prizes. Winners receive an elk*, bear, spring and fall turkey, and antlerless deer license as well as first pick at a hunting spot on opening morning at any managed waterfowl area. (*Only Michigan residents are eligible for the PMH elk license.)

The prize package for the Pure Michigan Hunt, donated by Michigan businesses and organizations, is a bit different each year due to more sponsorships and changing donations. Past years’ winners have taken home shotguns, rifles, crossbows, guided hunts, pop-up blinds and much more.

From March 1 to Dec. 31 every year, applicants may apply as many times as they would like for $5 (per application). Each entry puts the applicant’s name in the Pure Michigan Hunt drawing, in which three winners are selected and announced in January.

The 2014 lottery had a total of 38,080 applications. Dollars generated from this opportunity fund wildlife habitat restoration and improvements in Michigan.

Pure Michigan Hunt applications may be purchased at all license agent locations or on the DNR’s E-license website.

Visit www.michigan.gov/puremichiganhunt to learn more, to apply and to view the entire hunter’s prize package.