Wolves have taken their toll up there. Guys went the whole season without seeing deer this year. Winter can take a bunch out too like in 95-96. Snow can arrive early and you might find 3 feet of the stuff for the opener like happened a few short years ago.
The deer in the UP migrate based on weather and snow depth also. Google "Shiras -moose deer" The moose is named after the same guy who discovered the deer patterns.
