When is Illinois Deer Hunting Season? (2023-2024)

ByBuffalo Rifles Blog

When Is Illinois Deer Hunting Season?

The Illinois deer hunting season is a time-honored tradition for many people in the state. It’s a chance to get out in the woods, enjoy the great outdoors, and maybe even bag a big buck. But when exactly is the deer hunting season in Illinois?

The answer to that question depends on a few factors, including the type of deer you’re hunting and the area of the state where you’re hunting. In general, the deer hunting season in Illinois runs from late October through January. However, there are some specific dates that you need to be aware of if you’re planning on hunting deer in the state.

For example, the archery deer hunting season runs from October 1 through January 31. The firearm deer hunting season is divided into two parts: the early firearm season, which runs from November 15 through November 28, and the late firearm season, which runs from December 1 through January 31.

In addition to the dates, you also need to be aware of the bag limits for deer hunting in Illinois. The bag limit for antlerless deer is two per day, and the bag limit for antlered deer is one per day.

If you’re planning on hunting deer in Illinois, it’s important to do your research and make sure you’re familiar with all of the rules and regulations. This will help you have a safe and successful hunting season.

Deer Season Dates Notes
Archery September 25 – November 13 Only crossbows are allowed.
Muzzleloader November 14 – 20 Only muzzleloaders are allowed.
Firearms November 21 – January 2 All firearms are allowed.

General Deer Hunting Season Dates in Illinois

The general deer hunting season in Illinois runs from November 13 to December 5, 2023. The season is divided into two parts: antlerless deer season, which runs from November 13 to December 5, and antlered deer season, which runs from November 19 to December 5.

Antlerless Deer Season

The antlerless deer season is open to all hunters, regardless of age or gender. Hunters are allowed to take one antlerless deer per day. The bag limit for antlerless deer is six per hunter.

Antlered Deer Season

The antlered deer season is open to hunters who are at least 16 years of age. Hunters are allowed to take one antlered deer per day. The bag limit for antlered deer is three per hunter.

Hunting Hours

The general deer hunting season is open from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. each day. However, hunters are allowed to take deer during the early morning hours of November 13 and 19, as well as the late evening hours of December 4 and 5.

Deer Hunting Permits

All hunters who are 16 years of age or older are required to have a valid Illinois hunting license. Hunters who are 16 or 17 years of age are also required to have a valid Illinois hunting education certificate.

In addition to a hunting license, hunters who are planning to participate in the general deer hunting season must also have a valid deer permit. Deer permits are available for purchase online or at any Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) office.

Deer Hunting Zones

Illinois is divided into 10 deer hunting zones. Each zone has its own set of regulations, including bag limits, hunting hours, and permit requirements. Hunters are responsible for knowing the regulations for the zone in which they are hunting.

Deer Hunting Tips

There are a number of things that hunters can do to increase their chances of success during the general deer hunting season. These tips include:

  • Scouting the area in advance to find areas where deer are likely to be found.
  • Using a variety of hunting techniques, such as still-hunting, spot-and-stalk hunting, and calling.
  • Wearing camouflage clothing and using scent-free products to avoid detection by deer.
  • Practicing good shot placement to ensure a quick and humane kill.

For more information on the general deer hunting season in Illinois, please visit the IDNR website.

Special Deer Hunting Seasons in Illinois

In addition to the general deer hunting season, Illinois also offers a number of special deer hunting seasons. These seasons are designed to provide opportunities for hunters of all ages and abilities to participate in the sport.

Youth Deer Hunt

The youth deer hunt is open to hunters who are 15 years of age or younger. The hunt takes place on October 1 and 2, 2023. Hunters are allowed to take one antlerless deer per day. The bag limit for antlerless deer is two per hunter.

Senior Citizens Deer Hunt

The senior citizens deer hunt is open to hunters who are 65 years of age or older. The hunt takes place on November 12 and 13, 2023. Hunters are allowed to take one antlerless deer per day. The bag limit for antlerless deer is two per hunter.

Disabled Hunters Deer Hunt

The disabled hunters deer hunt is open to hunters who have a permanent disability that prevents them from participating in the general deer hunting season. The hunt takes place on November 26 and 27, 2023. Hunters are allowed to take one antlerless deer per day. The bag limit for antlerless deer is two per hunter.

CWD Control Zone Deer Hunt

The CWD control zone deer hunt is open to hunters who are participating in the CWD control program. The hunt takes place on December 6-11, 2023. Hunters are allowed to take one antlered deer per day. The bag limit for antlered deer is two per hunter.

For more information on the special deer hunting seasons in Illinois, please visit the IDNR website.

3. Deer Hunting Regulations in Illinois

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) regulates deer hunting in the state. The following are some of the key regulations:

  • Bag limits: Hunters are allowed to take one antlered deer and one antlerless deer per day. The antlerless deer bag limit is increased to two during the late antlerless season.
  • Weapons allowed: Hunters may use rifles, shotguns, muzzleloaders, and archery equipment to hunt deer. The use of crossbows is prohibited.
  • Hunting hours: Deer hunting is permitted during daylight hours only.
  • Land ownership requirements: Hunters must have permission from the landowner to hunt on private property.
  • Other regulations: Hunters must wear blaze orange or fluorescent orange clothing during deer hunting season. They must also follow all other applicable hunting regulations.

For more information on deer hunting regulations in Illinois, please visit the IDNR website.

4. Where to Hunt Deer in Illinois

There are a number of places to hunt deer in Illinois. These include:

  • State-owned hunting areas: The IDNR owns and manages a number of hunting areas throughout the state. These areas offer a variety of hunting opportunities, including deer hunting.
  • Private hunting land: There are also a number of private hunting properties in Illinois that offer deer hunting opportunities. Hunters can contact private landowners directly to inquire about hunting opportunities.
  • National forest land: The U.S. Forest Service owns and manages a number of national forests in Illinois. These forests offer a variety of hunting opportunities, including deer hunting.
  • Other public hunting land: There are also a number of other public hunting lands in Illinois, such as state parks and wildlife refuges. These lands offer a variety of hunting opportunities, including deer hunting.

For more information on where to hunt deer in Illinois, please visit the IDNR website.

Deer hunting is a popular pastime in Illinois, and there are a number of opportunities to hunt deer in the state. Hunters should be familiar with the applicable regulations before heading out to the woods.

When is Illinois deer hunting season?

The Illinois deer hunting season is open from November 15 to January 31. The specific dates for each hunting zone can be found on the [Illinois Department of Natural Resources website](https://www2.illinois.gov/dnr/hunting/deer/Pages/default.aspx).

What are the different deer hunting seasons in Illinois?

There are three different deer hunting seasons in Illinois:

  • Archery season: Open from September 15 to January 31.
  • Muzzleloader season: Open from November 15 to December 11.
  • Gun season: Open from November 15 to January 31.

What are the bag limits for each deer hunting season in Illinois?

The bag limits for each deer hunting season in Illinois are as follows:

  • Archery season: One antlered deer per day and two antlered deer per season.
  • Muzzleloader season: One antlered deer per day and two antlered deer per season.
  • Gun season: One antlered deer per day and two antlered deer per season.

What are the requirements for hunting deer in Illinois?

To hunt deer in Illinois, you must have a valid Illinois hunting license and a deer permit. You must also be at least 16 years old.

Where can I hunt deer in Illinois?

You can hunt deer on any public land in Illinois that is open to hunting. You can also hunt deer on private land with the permission of the landowner.

What are the rules for hunting deer in Illinois?

There are a number of rules and regulations that you must follow when hunting deer in Illinois. These rules include:

  • You must wear blaze orange clothing during hunting season.
  • You must use a legal firearm or bow.
  • You must follow the bag limits.
  • You must dispose of your deer carcass properly.

What are the penalties for violating deer hunting laws in Illinois?

The penalties for violating deer hunting laws in Illinois can include fines, imprisonment, and/or loss of hunting privileges.

Where can I get more information about deer hunting in Illinois?

You can get more information about deer hunting in Illinois from the [Illinois Department of Natural Resources website](https://www2.illinois.gov/dnr/hunting/deer/Pages/default.aspx).

the Illinois deer hunting season is a long and exciting one, with opportunities for hunters of all skill levels. The season opens in early November and runs through late January, giving hunters plenty of time to bag their limit. There are a variety of deer hunting methods available in Illinois, so hunters can choose the one that best suits their needs. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or a novice, the Illinois deer hunting season is a great way to enjoy the outdoors and get in touch with your wild side.

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