Complete Illinois Hunting Calendar 2025-2026: Season Dates & Bag Limits
Whether you’re a longtime Illinois resident planning your next outdoor adventure or a visiting sportsman looking to explore the Prairie State’s wildlife opportunities, having accurate and up-to-date information about hunting seasons is essential. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about Illinois hunting for the 2025-2026 season, including specific dates, licensing requirements, bag limits, and wildlife management areas.
Illinois offers some of the Midwest’s most diverse hunting opportunities, from world-class whitetail deer to excellent waterfowl shooting along the Mississippi River flyway. The state’s commitment to wildlife management has created healthy populations across various species, making it a premier destination for hunters seeking both challenging pursuits and family-friendly outdoor experiences.
Let’s dive into the complete breakdown of what the 2025-2026 game calendar has in store for you.
📅 Quick Highlights
Before we get into the detailed breakdown, here are the major highlights every Illinois hunter should know:
Big Game Opportunities: Archery deer season runs from October 1 through January 18, 2026 (with firearm season breaks). Firearm deer occurs November 21-23 and December 4-7, 2025. Spring turkey runs from April 6-May 14, 2026, depending on your zone.
Small Game Action: Dove season kicks off September 1st with excellent early season shooting. Squirrel hunters can start August 1st and continue through February 15th. Pheasant and quail open November 1st in their respective zones.
Waterfowl Excellence: Duck seasons vary by zone, starting October 18th in the North Zone and running through late January 2026. Canada goose seasons offer extended opportunities from October through January.
Youth Opportunities: Special youth-only periods for deer (October 11-13), turkey (March 28-29 and April 4-5), and waterfowl provide excellent chances for young hunters to gain experience.
Important Note: Gray fox seasons are completely closed for 2025-2026 due to population concerns. Additionally, Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) regulations now affect four additional counties: Bureau, Ford, Lee, and Peoria.
Big Game Overview
Illinois big game hunting centers around white-tailed deer and wild turkey, both of which offer multiple season types and excellent success rates.
| Species | Season Type | Dates | Hours | Bag Limit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Whitetail Deer | Archery (Most Counties) | Oct 1-Nov 20 & Nov 24-Dec 3, 2025; Dec 8, 2025-Jan 18, 2026 | ½ hour before sunrise to ½ hour after sunset | One deer per archery permit |
| Archery (Cook, DuPage, Lake, East Kane) | Oct 1, 2025-Jan 18, 2026 | ½ hour before sunrise to ½ hour after sunset | One deer per archery permit | |
| Youth Firearm | Oct 11-13, 2025 | ½ hour before sunrise to ½ hour after sunset | One deer | |
| Regular Firearm | Nov 21-23 & Dec 4-7, 2025 | ½ hour before sunrise to ½ hour after sunset | One deer per firearm permit | |
| Muzzleloader | Dec 12-14, 2025 | ½ hour before sunrise to ½ hour after sunset | One deer per muzzleloader permit | |
| Special CWD | Jan 1-4 & Jan 16-18, 2026 | ½ hour before sunrise to ½ hour after sunset | One deer per valid permit | |
| Late Winter Antlerless | Jan 1-4 & Jan 16-18, 2026 | ½ hour before sunrise to ½ hour after sunset | One antlerless deer per permit |
The archery deer season provides the longest opportunity, spanning nearly four months when you account for all the various periods. Modern gun hunters get two solid weekends, while muzzleloader enthusiasts enjoy their own three-day period in mid-December.
CWD Management: The Special CWD season operates in counties where Chronic Wasting Disease has been detected. This additional season helps wildlife managers monitor and control deer populations in affected areas. Hunters in Bureau, Ford, Lee, and Peoria counties now must use mandatory check stations during regular firearm seasons.
Turkey Dates
Wild turkey hunting in Illinois offers both spring and fall opportunities, with spring being the more popular among most hunters.
| Season Type | Zone | Dates | Hours | Bag Limit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Youth Turkey | Statewide | Mar 28-29 & Apr 4-5, 2026 | ½ hour before sunrise to 1 PM | One tom, jake, or bearded hen (counts toward spring limit) |
| Spring Turkey Segment 1 | North | Apr 13-17, 2026 | ½ hour before sunrise to 1 PM | One tom, jake, or bearded hen per permit |
| South | Apr 6-10, 2026 | |||
| Spring Turkey Segment 2 | North | Apr 18-23, 2026 | ½ hour before sunrise to 1 PM | Maximum of 3 spring permits total |
| South | Apr 11-16, 2026 | |||
| Spring Turkey Segment 3 | North | Apr 24-29, 2026 | ½ hour before sunrise to 1 PM | |
| South | Apr 17-22, 2026 | |||
| Spring Turkey Segment 4 | North | Apr 30-May 6, 2026 | ½ hour before sunrise to 1 PM | |
| South | Apr 23-29, 2026 | |||
| Spring Turkey Segment 5 | North | May 7-14, 2026 | ½ hour before sunrise to 1 PM | |
| South | Apr 30-May 7, 2026 | |||
| Fall Turkey Shotgun | Statewide | Oct 18-26, 2025 | ½ hour before sunrise to sunset | One either-sex turkey per permit (max 2 fall shotgun permits) |
| Fall Turkey Archery | Statewide | Oct 1, 2025-Jan 18, 2026 | ½ hour before sunrise to ½ hour after sunset | One either-sex turkey per permit (max 2 fall archery permits) |
Spring turkey season operates on a lottery system for many areas, so applying early is crucial. The segment system allows hunters multiple chances throughout the spring season. Fall turkey hunting offers a different challenge, as hunters can take either-sex birds and use calls to break up family flocks.
Unlike some neighboring states such as Arkansas, Illinois maintains separate north and south zones for spring turkey, with the south zone typically opening one week earlier.
Furbearer Opportunities
Illinois offers year-round or extended seasons for many furbearer species, making it attractive for trappers and predator hunters.
| Species | Season Dates | Hours | Method | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Coyote | Year-round (closed during firearm deer) | 24 hours (restrictions during archery deer) | Hunting/Trapping | Open 24/7 except during archery deer season |
| Bobcat | Oct 10, 2025-Feb 15, 2026 | Varies by method | Hunting/Trapping | Closed during firearm deer season |
| Red Fox | Oct 10, 2025-Feb 15, 2026 | Varies by method | Hunting/Trapping | Limited during archery deer season |
| Raccoon | Oct 10, 2025-Feb 15, 2026 | Limited during archery deer | Hunting/Trapping | Sunrise to sunset during archery deer |
| Opossum | Oct 10, 2025-Feb 15, 2026 | Limited during archery deer | Hunting/Trapping | Same restrictions as raccoon |
| Striped Skunk | Year-round (closed during firearm deer) | 24 hours | Hunting/Trapping | Similar to coyote regulations |
| Woodchuck | May 1-Dec 31, 2025 | Daylight hours | Hunting only | Closed during firearm deer season |
| Gray Fox | CLOSED | N/A | N/A | Season closure due to population decline |
Important Change: Gray fox seasons are completely closed for 2025-2026. Research indicates population declines likely due to disease and competition from coyotes and domestic dogs. House Bill 3760 gave the Illinois Department of Natural Resources authority to close seasons when populations show concerning trends.
Furbearer hunting provides excellent opportunities for extending your time afield, especially during the long winter months. Many species like coyotes and raccoons are active year-round, though some restrictions apply during deer seasons to minimize conflicts between hunters.
Small Game Section
Small game hunting in Illinois offers diverse opportunities from early season doves to late winter rabbits.
| Species | Season Dates | Hours | Daily Bag Limit | Possession Limit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Squirrel (Gray & Fox) | Aug 1, 2025-Feb 15, 2026 | ½ hour before sunrise to ½ hour after sunset | 5 | 10 |
| Mourning & White-winged Dove | Sep 1-Nov 14 & Dec 26, 2025-Jan 9, 2026 | Sunrise to sunset | 15 | 45 |
| Woodcock | Oct 18-Dec 1, 2025 | Sunrise to sunset | 3 | 9 |
| Crow | Oct 28, 2025-Feb 28, 2026 | ½ hour before sunrise to sunset | No limit | No limit |
| Pheasant (Males Only) | Nov 1, 2025-Jan 8, 2026 (North) / Jan 15, 2026 (South) | Sunrise to sunset | 2 | 6 |
| Bobwhite Quail | Nov 1, 2025-Jan 15, 2026 (South Zone only) | Sunrise to sunset | 8 | 20 |
| Hungarian Partridge | Same as pheasant dates | Sunrise to sunset | 2 | 6 |
| Cottontail & Swamp Rabbit | Nov 1, 2025-Feb 15, 2026 | Sunrise to sunset | 4 | 10 |
Season Highlights: The early dove season provides excellent wing shooting opportunities right at the start of September. Many hunters use this as a tune-up for later waterfowl seasons. Squirrel season opens August 1st, giving hunters a chance to get back in the woods during warm weather.
Zone Considerations: Pheasant hunting is divided into north and south zones, with the south zone getting an extra week. Quail hunting is restricted to the southern portion of the state where populations are more stable. Hungarian partridge follows the same schedule as pheasants.
All small game seasons close during firearm deer season in counties where deer firearm hunting is permitted, except for crow hunting which continues uninterrupted.
Complete Waterfowl Seasons
Illinois waterfowl hunting is exceptional due to the state’s position along the Mississippi Flyway. The zone system maximizes hunting opportunities across different habitat types.
| Species | Zone | Season Dates | Hours | Daily Limit | Possession Limit |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Early Teal | All Zones | Sep 6-14, 2025 | Sunrise to sunset | 6 | 18 |
| Youth Waterfowl | North | Oct 11-12, 2025 | Same as regular seasons | Same as regular seasons | Same as regular seasons |
| Central | Oct 18-19, 2025 | ||||
| South Central | Nov 8-9, 2025 | ||||
| South | Nov 15-16, 2025 | ||||
| Regular Ducks | North | Oct 18-Dec 16, 2025 | ½ hour before sunrise to sunset | 6 (see species restrictions) | 18 |
| Central | Oct 25-Dec 23, 2025 | ||||
| South Central | Nov 15, 2025-Jan 13, 2026 | ||||
| South | Nov 29, 2025-Jan 27, 2026 | ||||
| Scaup (Bluebills) | All Zones | First segment: 2/day, Second segment: 1/day | Same as ducks | Segment 1: 6, Segment 2: 3 | Same as ducks |
| Canada Geese | North | Oct 18, 2025-Jan 15, 2026 | ½ hour before sunrise to sunset | 3 | 9 |
| Central | Oct 25-Nov 2 & Nov 12, 2025-Jan 31, 2026 | ||||
| South Central | Nov 15, 2025-Jan 31, 2026 | ||||
| South | Nov 29, 2025-Jan 31, 2026 | ||||
| Light Geese (Snow/Ross’s) | North | Oct 18, 2025-Jan 15, 2026 | ½ hour before sunrise to sunset | 20 | Unlimited |
| Other Zones | Various (see specific dates) | ||||
| White-fronted Geese | North | Oct 20, 2025-Jan 15, 2026 | ½ hour before sunrise to sunset | 2 | 6 |
| Central | Nov 5, 2025-Jan 31, 2026 | ||||
| South Central | Nov 15, 2025-Jan 31, 2026 | ||||
| South | Nov 29, 2025-Jan 31, 2026 |
Special Regulations: The basic daily duck limit is 6 birds, but specific restrictions apply: maximum 4 mallards (only 2 can be hens), 3 wood ducks, 2 redheads, 2 canvasbacks, 2 black ducks, 3 pintails (increased from previous years), and 1 mottled duck.
Conservation Order: Light geese (snow and Ross’s geese) have a special Conservation Order season from January 16-April 30, 2026, with unlimited bag limits and extended shooting hours.
Zone Maps: Illinois uses a four-zone system (North, Central, South Central, and South) for waterfowl management. Each zone has different opening dates designed to coincide with peak migration periods.
Other Available Game
Illinois offers hunting opportunities for several additional species that often get overlooked but provide unique outdoor experiences.
| Species | Season Dates | Hours | Daily Limit | Special Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rail (Sora & Virginia) | Sep 6-Nov 14, 2025 | Sunrise to sunset | 25 | Often found in wetland areas |
| Wilson’s Snipe | Sep 6-Dec 21, 2025 | Sunrise to sunset | 8 | Excellent wing shooting practice |
| Early Canada Geese | Sep 1-15, 2025 | ½ hour before sunrise to sunset | 5 | Separate from regular goose season |
| Brant | Same as light geese | Same as light geese | 1 | Rare but legal to harvest |
| Mergansers | Same as duck seasons | Same as duck seasons | 5 (max 2 hooded) | Don’t count toward duck limit |
| Coots | Same as duck seasons | Same as duck seasons | 15 | Good table fare when prepared properly |
These “bonus” species often provide opportunities when primary targets aren’t cooperating. Wilson’s snipe, in particular, offer excellent wing shooting that can help prepare hunters for upcoming duck seasons. Rails provide a unique hunting experience in cattail marshes and are often taken incidentally during early waterfowl seasons.
Hunting Zones & Public Areas
Illinois divides into various management zones depending on the species you’re pursuing. Understanding these zones is crucial for planning successful hunts.
Waterfowl Zones: Four zones (North, Central, South Central, South) with staggered season dates to optimize hunting during peak migration periods.
Turkey Zones: North and South zones with the South zone typically opening earlier in spring.
Pheasant/Quail Zones: North zone extends further south than waterfowl zones, while quail hunting is restricted to southern counties only.
CWD Management Counties: Now includes 19 counties with special reporting requirements and additional hunting opportunities.
Public Hunting Areas: Illinois maintains over 300 public hunting areas totaling more than 300,000 acres. Notable additions for 2025-2026 include:
- Donnelley State Fish and Wildlife Area-Putnam County Unit (255 acres)
- Illinois Caverns State Natural Area (116 acres)
- Guthrie Cave Land and Water Reserve (80 acres)
- Ralph Clover State Natural Area (60 acres)
For detailed maps and public area information, visit the official Illinois DNR website or pick up hunter fact sheets for specific areas you plan to hunt.
Permits, Tags & Licenses Details
Getting properly licensed is essential before heading afield. Illinois offers various license types to accommodate different hunting preferences and residency status.
| License Type | Resident Cost | Non-Resident Cost | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Basic Hunting License | $13.00 | $57.75 | Annual | Required for all hunters |
| Archery Deer Permit (Combination) | $37.75 | $411.00 | Seasonal | Includes either-sex and antlerless-only permits |
| Firearm Deer Permit | Variable by lottery | Variable by lottery | Per season | Lottery application required |
| Muzzleloader Deer Permit | Variable by lottery | Variable by lottery | Per season | Lottery application required |
| Spring Turkey Permit | $15.00 | $85.00 | Per segment | Maximum 3 permits per person |
| Fall Turkey Permit | $15.00 | $85.00 | Per season | Maximum 2 shotgun, 2 archery permits |
| Habitat Stamp | $5.50 | $5.50 | Annual | Required for all hunters |
| Waterfowl Stamp | $12.50 | $12.50 | Annual | Plus federal duck stamp |
| Fur Harvester License | $7.50 | $57.75 | Annual | Required for trapping |
Youth Licenses: Hunters under 16 can hunt with reduced-cost or free licenses in many categories. Youth deer permits are often available over-the-counter when adult permits require lottery applications.
Military Discounts: Active military personnel and veterans may qualify for reduced fees or exemptions. Contact the Illinois DNR for specific requirements.
Online vs. Vendor Purchases: Most licenses can be purchased online through ExploreMoreIL or at licensed vendors throughout the state. Some permits require lottery applications with specific deadlines.
Landowner Programs: Both resident and non-resident landowners may qualify for special permit allocations on their own property. Applications typically open in early March.
Illinois Hunting Quick FAQ
Q: Do I need hunter education to hunt in Illinois?
A: Yes, all hunters born after January 1, 1980, must complete hunter education certification. This applies to both residents and non-residents.
Q: Can I use a rifle for deer hunting in Illinois?
A: As of January 1, 2023, centerfire single-shot rifles in certain calibers are legal for deer hunting. However, administrative rules are still being finalized. Check the current regulations before hunting.
Q: How do CWD check stations work?
A: In mandatory CWD counties (now including Bureau, Ford, Lee, and Peoria), hunters must physically bring harvested deer to designated check stations during firearm seasons. Staff will record permit information and affix tags. CWD testing is available at these locations.
Q: What’s the difference between the north and south turkey zones?
A: The south zone typically opens one week earlier in spring, allowing hunters there to pursue gobblers when birds may be less pressured. Zone boundaries are clearly marked in the hunting digest.
Q: Can non-residents hunt public land in Illinois?
A: Yes, non-residents can hunt most public areas with proper licenses. Some special permit areas may have resident-only periods or separate quotas.
Q: When do firearm deer lottery applications open?
A: Lottery applications for 2026 seasons open March 3, 2026, and close April 30, 2026. Both online and paper applications are accepted for residents, while non-residents should apply online when possible, similar to the process used in Colorado.
Q: Are there any changes to waterfowl bag limits for 2025-2026?
A: Yes, the daily bag limit for northern pintails increased from 1 to 3 birds. All other waterfowl limits remain the same as previous years.
Conclusion
The 2025-2026 Illinois hunting schedule offers something for everyone, from the early August squirrel opener to the late April conservation order goose season. With healthy deer populations, improving turkey numbers, and excellent waterfowl opportunities along the Mississippi Flyway, Illinois continues to provide some of the Midwest’s finest hunting experiences.
Key points to remember: gray fox seasons are closed this year, CWD regulations now affect additional counties, and pintail bag limits have increased. Youth hunters have numerous special opportunities, and the state continues expanding public hunting access with over 500 new acres added this season.
Plan ahead for lottery applications, especially for firearm deer permits, and don’t forget to purchase your habitat stamp and any required federal stamps. Whether you’re targeting a trophy whitetail, calling in a gobbler, or enjoying morning flights of ducks, Illinois delivers outstanding outdoor experiences.
Be sure to bookmark this page for updates throughout the season, and always double-check current regulations before heading afield. Here’s to a safe, successful, and memorable 2025-2026 hunting season in the Prairie State!
