If you’re planning to hunt in the Prairie State, one of the first questions you need answered is, when does deer hunting season start in Illinois? The dates aren’t the same every year, and they vary significantly by the type of hunting you want to do. Getting this right is your first step to a successful and legal hunt.
This guide breaks down all the Illinois deer seasons. We’ll cover archery, firearm, muzzleloader, and late-winter seasons. You’ll learn the key dates, how to get your permits, and important regulations. Let’s get you ready for the field.
When Does Deer Hunting Season Start In Illinois
Illinois deer hunting is split into several distinct seasons. The archery season always kicks things off in the fall. The main firearm season is a big event in November. Here’s the typical annual framework, but remember to always double-check the current year’s official dates from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR).
Archery Deer Season
Archery season is the longest season in Illinois. It offers a great chance to enjoy the woods during beautiful fall weather.
- Opening Date: Typically opens on October 1st.
- Closing Date: It runs through mid-January, with a break during the firearm seasons in November and December.
- Key Note: You must stop hunting during the firearm season dates unless you are in a county or site open to archery-only during that time. Always verify the specific closures.
Firearm Deer Season
This is the most popular season. It consists of two separate segments.
- First Season: Usually held over three days in mid-November (e.g., the third weekend).
- Second Season: Usually held over three days in late November or early December, often starting the Thursday after Thanksgiving.
Muzzleloader-Only Season
This season happens right after the second firearm season.
- Opening Date: Typically starts on a Friday in early December.
- Duration: Lasts for four days.
Late-Winter Antlerless-Only Season
This is a special season to help manage the deer population.
- Opening Date: Held in late December and early January, after the archery season resumes.
- Key Restriction: Antlerless deer only. This season is not open in every county.
Youth Deer Season
A dedicated season for young hunters is a fantastic opportunity.
- Opening Date: Held over two days in early October, usually the first full weekend.
- Eligibility: Hunters under 18 at the time of the hunt. They must be accompanied by a non-hunting adult.
How to Find the Exact Dates Each Year
The IDNR sets the final dates each spring. Don’t rely on last year’s calendar. Here’s how to get the official info:
- Visit the Illinois Department of Natural Resources website.
- Look for the “Hunting/Trapping” section and find the current Illinois Hunting Digest.
- The digest has a full season date chart. Download or pick up a printed copy.
- You can also call the IDNR directly for clarification.
Understanding Illinois Deer Hunting Zones
Illinois is divided into different deer hunting zones. Your zone determines what permits you can apply for and some specific season rules. There’s four main zones.
Zone Differences and Regulations
Each zone has different management goals based on deer population.
- North Zone: Generally covers the northern third of the state. Firearm seasons may have slightly different structures here.
- Central Zone: Covers the middle third. This is often where you find some of the highest deer densities.
- South Zone: Covers the southern third. Season dates, especially for firearm, can be different than the North.
- Special Hunt Areas: These include state parks, military sites, and other controlled areas. They have their own unique seasons, quotas, and application processes.
It is crucial you know your zone before applying for permits. Using the wrong zone permit is illegal.
The Permit Application Process Explained
Getting an Illinois deer permit involves a lottery system for firearm, muzzleloader, and some special hunts. Archery permits are usually over-the-counter after the lottery results.
Step-by-Step Application Guide
- Check Eligibility: You need a valid Illinois hunting license and a Habitat Stamp before applying.
- Know the Deadline: The application period for the lottery is typically in early summer (June). Missing this deadline means you miss the lottery.
- Apply Online or by Phone: Use the IDNR online licensing system or call the toll-free number. You’ll need your hunting license ID.
- Select Your Choices: You can pick your preferred county, season type (first firearm, second firearm, muzzleloader), and even a second choice.
- Pay the Fee: You pay a non-refundable application fee. If you’re drawn, the permit fee is charged later.
- Check Results: Lottery results are usually available by late summer. Check your account online.
- Buy Leftover Permits: If you weren’t drawn or want another permit, leftover permits go on sale in the fall.
Archery Permit Information
Archery deer permits are not part of the initial lottery. After the lottery process is complete, archery permits can be purchased over-the-counter, unlimited for residents, and with a quota for non-residents. You still need to specify the zone you will be hunting in when you buy the tag.
Essential Regulations Every Hunter Must Know
Following the rules keeps you legal and promotes safe, ethical hunting.
Blaze Orange Requirements
During firearm, muzzleloader, and youth seasons, you must wear blaze orange.
- A cap or hat, plus a shirt or jacket, totalling at least 400 square inches.
- Archery hunters during these seasons must also comply.
- During archery-only periods, blaze orange is not required but is still a good safety precausion.
Tagging and Reporting Your Deer
Illinois has a strict process you must follow immediately after harvesting a deer.
- Field Tag: Immediately after the kill, fill out your paper permit (the tag) with the date and time of harvest. Attach it to the deer before moving it.
- Check-In: You must register your deer with the IDNR by 10:00 PM on the same calendar day. This is done online or by phone. You’ll get a confirmation number.
- Final Tag: Write this confirmation number on your paper permit. This now serves as your permanent transportation tag.
Failing to report your harvest is a violation and hurts wildlife management efforts.
Legal Hunting Hours
Legal shooting hours are from half an hour before sunrise to half an hour after sunset. It’s your responsibility to know these times for your specific location and date. Many hunting apps provide accurate sunrise/sunset tables.
Preparing for Your Illinois Deer Hunt
Good preparation separates a hopeful hunter from a successful one.
Scouting Your Hunting Area
Don’t wait until the season opens. Get to know your area.
- Use topographic maps and aerial photos to find funnels, bedding areas, and food sources.
- Look for signs like tracks, rubs, and scrapes. Set trail cameras if allowed.
- Always get landowner permission for private land and know the boundaries of public land.
Gear Checklist
Packing the right gear is essential. Here’s a basic list:
- Valid hunting license, permits, and habitat stamp.
- Blaze orange clothing (if required for your season).
- Weapon (bow, firearm, muzzleloader) and appropriate ammunition/arrows.
- Sharp hunting knife and game bags for processing.
- Means to check in your deer (cell phone or know where to find a landline).
- Basic survival kit, first aid, and plenty of water.
Safety First
Always tell someone where you are hunting and when you expect to return. Use a safety harness in a tree stand—every single time. Treat every firearm as if it is loaded, and be sure of your target and what is beyond it.
Public Hunting Land Opportunities
Illinois offers many public hunting areas. These include state parks, wildlife management areas (WMAs), and national forest land.
How to Find and Use Public Land
- Consult the IDNR’s public land maps available online.
- Understand the specific rules for each site. Some require additional permits or have special restrictions.
- Scout early, as these areas can see pressure. Look for spots away from easy access points.
- Always have a backup plan in case your first choice is crowded.
Respecting the land and other hunters is paramount on public property.
FAQs About Illinois Deer Season
What is the first day of deer season in Illinois?
The first day varies by season. Archery season usually opens first on October 1st. The youth season is often the first weekend in October. The first firearm season starts in mid-November.
Can I hunt deer with a rifle in Illinois?
No, for standard firearm seasons, Illinois only allows shotguns (slugs), muzzleloading rifles, and handguns meeting specific caliber requirements. Straight-walled cartridge rifles are now allowed in certain calibers, check the current rules for the list.
How much is a non-resident deer tag in Illinois?
Non-resident deer permits are significantly more expensive than resident permits. A non-resident archery permit is over $400, and a firearm permit is even more. Always check the IDNR website for the exact, current fees before applying.
What are the legal bucks in Illinois?
During most seasons, a legal buck must have at least one antler that is a minimum of 5 inches in length. There are also antler point restriction (APR) rules in some counties, requiring a buck to have at least three or four points on one side. You must know the rules for the county you hunt in.
Is there a late season for deer in Illinois?
Yes. The late-winter antlerless-only season and the continuation of archery season into January provide late season opportunities. These are crucial for herd management and offer a different hunting experience.
Final Thoughts on Season Planning
Knowing when does deer hunting season start in Illinois is just the beginning. Success comes from understanding the zones, navigating the permit process, and following all regulations. The dates and rules are there to ensure sustainable hunting for generations to come. Start your planning early, apply on time, and put in the work scouting and preparing. A well-planned hunt is always more enjoyable, regardless of the outcome. Remember to check the official Illinois Hunting Digest for the final word on all seasons, dates, and rules before you head out.