i would take carp masters post and what is in the guide to mean that you can hunt any weapon provided you have the permit for early season which is different than the combo, archery or rifle. If you are unclear you can go to www.michigan.gov/dnr and click on ask dnr. there you can search tons of questions or ask your own. dnr is good about responding with an answer in about 2 or 3 days sometimes even same day if you ask early enough.