ORIGINAL: statjunk
If I'm not mistaken it is illegal to hunt with semi-auto rifles in Michigan.
I think you may be mistaken. This is from the Michigan DNR site:
Shell Capacity for Shotguns and Centerfire Rifles
It is unlawful to hunt with a semi-automatic shotgun or semi-automatic rifle, other than a .22 caliber rimfire, that can hold more than six shells in the barrel and magazine combined. Fully automatic firearms are illegal. All shotguns used for migratory game birds (including woodcock) must be plugged so the total capacity of the shotgun does not exceed threeshells.
Looks to me like if you're using a five round magazine, you should be OK.