As a hunting aficionado, you may be eager to learn about the commencement of hunting season in Illinois. The positive news is that Illinois has a lengthy and varied hunting season, providing opportunities to hunt a variety of game species throughout the year.
Whether you are a skilled hunter or a novice, Illinois offers something for all. From cervids and fowls to water birds and upland animals, there is no scarcity of prey to hunt. In this article, we will provide a summary of the hunting season in Illinois, as well as some hints and resources to assist you in planning your next hunting expedition.
Cervid Hunting Season in Illinois
Cervid hunting is one of the most trendy hunting activities in Illinois, with over 150,000 deer taken every year. The deer hunting season in Illinois generally begins in October and lasts through January, with distinct seasons for archery, firearm, and muzzleloader hunters. The archery season typically begins in mid-October and extends through January, while the firearm season runs for seven days in mid-November. The muzzleloader season typically comes after the firearm season in early December.
Turkey Hunting Season in Illinois
Turkey hunting is another prevalent hunting activity in Illinois. The turkey hunting season in Illinois usually commences in April and runs through May, with a limit of one bird per season. However, there is also a fall turkey hunting season that runs from October to January, with a limit of one bird per day.
Waterfowl Hunting Season in Illinois
Illinois is known for its ample waterfowl hunting opportunities, with a broad range of species available throughout the state. The waterfowl hunting season in Illinois usually commences in late October and lasts through January, with distinct seasons for different species. For instance, the duck season typically lasts from mid-October to mid-December, while the goose season usually runs from late October to late January.
Upland Game Hunting Season in Illinois
Upland game hunting is another prevalent hunting activity in Illinois, with opportunities to hunt pheasant, quail, and other game birds. The upland game hunting season in Illinois usually commences in mid-November and lasts through January, with distinct seasons for different species.
Planning Your Hunting Trip in Illinois
If you are planning a hunting trip to Illinois, numerous resources are available to assist you in planning your trip. The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) website is an excellent place to start, with information on hunting regulations, licenses, and permits. You can also find information on public hunting areas and private hunting preserves throughout the state.
If you are looking for a more guided hunting experience, there are also several outfitters and hunting lodges throughout the state. Find A Hunt is one of the most trendy hunting outfitters in Illinois, offering a variety of guided hunting trips for deer, turkey, waterfowl, and upland game. They offer packages for hunters of all experience levels and can assist you in planning a hunting trip that meets your specific needs and preferences.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Illinois is an exceptional place to hunt, with a diverse range of game species and a lengthy hunting season. Whether you are a skilled hunter or a novice, there is something for everyone in Illinois. With proper planning and resources, you can enjoy a fruitful hunting trip and create lasting memories.
