Illinois Hunting Resources

Updated: June 28, 2026

Source: Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR)

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Deer

ArcheryClosed in firearm counties during firearm seasons. Open continuously in Cook, DuPage, Lake, and Kane (east of Rt 47).

Wildlife

Oct 1, 2026 – Jan 17, 2027

Firearm (First Season)Valid in open counties only. Mandatory harvest reporting required.

Nov 20, 2026 – Nov 22, 2026

Firearm (Second Season)Valid in open counties. Muzzleloader permits also valid during this segment.

Dec 3, 2026 – Dec 6, 2026

Muzzleloader-OnlyHunters may also use a muzzleloader permit during the Second Firearm Season.

Dec 11, 2026 – Dec 13, 2026

Youth FirearmOpen to hunters under 18 accompanied by a non-hunting adult.

Oct 10, 2026 – Oct 12, 2026

Turkey

Youth SpringOpen statewide for two split weekends: March 28-29 and April 4-5, 2026.

Mar 28, 2026 – Apr 5, 2026

Spring (South Zone)Divided into 5 segments. Must possess a specific segment permit.

Apr 6, 2026 – May 7, 2026

Spring (North Zone)Divided into 5 segments. Must possess a specific segment permit.

Apr 13, 2026 – May 14, 2026

Dove

ShotgunSplit season: resumes December 26, 2026 - January 9, 2027. HIP registration required.

Sep 1, 2026 – Nov 14, 2026

Waterfowl (Ducks)

Shotgun (North Zone)2025-2026 dates shown. 2026-2027 duck season dates pending finalization under new zone boundaries.

Oct 18, 2025 – Dec 16, 2025

Shotgun (Central Zone)2025-2026 dates shown. 2026-2027 duck season dates pending finalization.

Oct 25, 2025 – Dec 23, 2025

Shotgun (South Central Zone)2025-2026 dates shown. 2026-2027 duck season dates pending finalization.

Nov 15, 2025 – Jan 13, 2026

Shotgun (South Zone)2025-2026 dates shown. 2026-2027 duck season dates pending finalization.

Nov 29, 2025 – Jan 27, 2026

Pheasant & Quail

ShotgunNorth Zone dates. South Zone runs through January 15, 2027. Pheasants must be roosters only.

Nov 7, 2026 – Jan 8, 2027

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