Grand Traverse County Parks and Recreation is opening Power Island and connected Bassett Island for deer bow hunting between October 1 and November 14, and between December 1 and January 1, 2020.

Firearm hunting will not be permitted on either island. The Michigan Department of Natural Resources recommends allowing bow hunting to control the deer population. Grand Traverse County Parks and Recreation Director Kristine Erickson says the move also "provides a recreational opportunity in a unique location."

Fee-based camping will end on Power Island before the archery season begins. However, visitors can access the island year-round, so hunters are asked to exercise caution at all times. Hunters can use the ten campsites on the island on a first-come, first-served basis. Restrooms will be closed, and the island well will be winterized. The use of off-road and all-terrain vehicles is banned.

While hunters are not required to register with Parks and Recreation, Erickson encourages anyone who successfully harvests a deer to contact the department as a courtesy at 231-922-4818. All hunters are reminded to carry appropriate deer licenses and follow all DNR guidelines and rules. Hunting antlerless deer is encouraged.