Illinois Hunting Seasons & Licensing: What You Need To Know (2024)

Hunting is a popular pastime in Illinois, and the state offers many opportunities for hunters of all experience levels. In this blog post, we will discuss the different hunting seasons in Illinois, as well as what licenses you need to participate.

We will also provide some tips on how to get started hunting in Illinois. So whether you're a seasoned hunter or a newbie, read on for all the information you need to enjoy a successful hunting trip in Illinois!

Hunting In Illinois

Hunting in Illinois can be a great experience, especially if you know where to go and what to expect. The state is home to some of the best deer hunting in the country, and there are also plenty of opportunities to hunt other game animals like turkey, quail, and pheasant. However, there are a few things that you should keep in mind before heading out into the woods.

First, be sure to check the hunting regulations for the area that you plan to hunt in. Illinois has a variety of different regulations that vary from one region to another, and it is important to make sure that you are following all of the rules. There are also different seasons for different types of game, so be sure to check the dates before you head out.

Second, Illinois is home to a variety of different terrain, from open fields to dense forests. This means that you will need to choose the right type of hunting gear depending on where you plan to hunt. If you are planning to hunt in an open field, for example, you will need different equipment than if you were planning to hunt in a forest.

Third, Illinois is home to a variety of different animals, and each one has its own unique set of behaviors. You will need to learn about the habits of the animal that you are planning to hunt before heading out, so that you can be sure to stay safe and be successful.

If you keep these things in mind, hunting in Illinois can be a great experience. There are plenty of opportunities to bag a big buck, and the state is full of different types of terrain to suit your needs. With a little bit of planning and research, you can have a successful and enjoyable hunt.

Illinois Deer Seasons

Archery	Oct. 1-Jan. 16
Muzzleloader	Dec. 10-12
Firearms	Nov. 19-21 and Dec. 2-5
Youth Firearms Hunt	Oct. 9-11

Illinois Wild Turkey Seasons

Fall Firearms	Oct. 23-31
Fall Archery	Oct. 1-Jan. 16

Fall archery season is closed during deer firearms season for hunter safety.

Illinois Small Game Seasons

Bobwhite Quail	Nov. 6-Jan. 15**
Hungarian Partridge	Nov. 6-Jan. 15**
Rabbit	Nov. 6-Feb. 15
Gray and Fox Squirrel	Aug. 1-Feb. 15 (closed during deer firearms seasons)
Crow	Oct. 28-Feb. 28

How To Get A Hunting License In Illinois

Anyone born on or after Jan. 1, 1980, is required to have the Hunter Education Certificate in order to legally buy a license or permit to hunt.

Complete the Illinois hunter education certification requirements.
Choose the correct license type.
Buy the license through the Illinois Department of Natural Resources website or an Illinois–approved vendor.

Illinois License Expiration

All hunting licenses and stamps are effective from date of purchase through March 31 of the following year. Illinois residents are able to purchase a lifetime hunting license.

Where to Buy an Illinois Hunting License

Visit the Illinois Department of Natural Resources website.
Call 1-800-705-4164.
Visit an approved license vendor.

**Season dates vary by zone. Many small game hunting seasons are temporarily suspended during deer firearms season for hunter safety.

The state of Illinois has strict firearms laws that may affect transportation of hunting guns and ammunition within the state. For additional information about gun transportation and storage laws during hunting season, read through the Illinois State Police “Commonly Asked Questions” brochure.

Bag limits, special seasons and hunting regulations for Illinois hunting seasons do vary based on animal and seasons. For more information on obtaining licenses, permits and regulations, visit the Illinois Department of Natural Resources website.