Learn to Hunt Deer
Interested in learning to hunt deer, but not sure where to start? Check out our new page that touches on everything you need to get started deer hunting in Illinois, including a few of our personal tips for success!
Learn to Hunt Turkey
Want to learn how to tell the difference between a tom and hen wild turkey? Interested in wild turkey ecology? Not sure how to apply for a turkey permit in Illinois? We have all that and more for you on our new turkey hunting page!
Learn to Hunt Waterfowl
Learn to Hunt Upland Birds
Learn to Hunt Doves
Dove hunting is challenging because doves are so small and quick, but it can also be a very exciting and social experience. Since it begins in early September, it’s one of the first seasons to open each fall and is a great way to begin your hunting season — just don’t forget to apply for your Free Dove Permit if you want to hunt at specific IDNR-managed sites during the first five days of the season!
Learn to Hunt Squirrels
Hunting squirrels is a great introduction to hunting for new (and younger!) hunters alike, and an experience we recommend that everyone try at least once: the permit and gear requirements are low, it can be an active hunt, it doesn’t have to be silent, public land access is relatively open in Illinois for squirrel hunting, and they can be pretty tasty! Click here to learn more about the squirrels of Illinois, how to hunt and process them, and recipe ideas.
Learn to Hunt Furbearers
Resources coming soon!
Learn to Trap Furbearers
Resources coming soon! Until then, click here to check out our past trapping webinars.
Explore our FREE Wild Game Cookbook
Discover Where I Can Hunt in Illinois
Unsure where you can hunt? We have information about hunting private land, public land, and the Illinois Recreational Access Program (IRAP) — which is the best of both!
Remember Upcoming Lottery and Season Dates
Struggling to keep track of season dates? Missed a lottery you wanted to apply for? We have a few suggestions for keeping track of important hunting dates so you’re prepared for next season!
Explore Hunter Ethics and Hunting Etiquette
Learn about the importance of fair chase, the difference between ethics and etiquette, and how to act when you encounter your fellow hunters in the wild.
Explore Other IL Outdoor/Hunting Programs & Organizations
From links to hunter and trapper safety education courses to learning more about Becoming an Outdoors Woman (BOW), IDNR wingshooting clinics, the Illinois Conservation Foundation (ICF), Pheasants Forever, and Hunt Illinois, we’ve got the program or organization to meet whatever need you’ve got!