How to Obtain a Hunting License in Illinois
Hunting in Illinois deer season is a treat for anyone into the sport. Article by Tom Bostrom.
Illinois Deer Season
It’s wabbit hunting season folks —
Err, no, that’s not right. It’s deer hunting season.
Really.
That wasn’t just a nod at Bugs Bunny and Daffy Duck, deer hunting season for bow hunters ends on the 17th of January so be sure to plan accordingly.
And one of the most frequently asked questions we get here at Porter’s is, “Is it deer season in Illinos?”
The answer is easy, right here at Porter’s Village! Porter’s is the one stop shop to get your fishing and hunting license in the state of Illinois.
We’ve got you covered.
First things first, hunting is an essential wildlife management activity that helps maintain balance in the ecosystem that wildlife depends on here in the Land of Lincoln. All fees obtained from hunting license purchases go directly to wildlife restoration and management projects. The state would not be able to preserve and manage the wilderness without hunters and Porter’s is very proud to be one of the select vendors in the Quad Cities that provides the community with an affordable, easy and convenient way to obtain their licenses.
But remember friends, although Porter’s makes this process easy and painless, getting a hunting license takes a bit of planning and research. Luckily for you, we have taken the time to do some of the legwork for you. Take five minutes to familiarize yourself with the contents of this page and you’ll be well on your way to being a licensed hunter (or fisherman) in the state of Illinois! And remember to check if it’s deer season in Illinois.
Here are 10 important facts to know about hunting and obtaining a license in the state of Illinois:
Keep these things in mind —
Who Can Hunt?
One great fact about hunting in Illinois is that our state welcomes both residents and non-residents to participate. The cost of license fees differ for out of state applicants so be sure to reference the “How Much” section of this article for more details.
Minors under the age of 18 are also welcome to hunt, but must file for a Youth Hunting and Trapping license. Fees also vary for youth hunters so don’t forget to check out the Department of Natural Resources site for the correct pricing.
First time hunters must file for an Apprentice License , and Porter’s is the only vendor in Hampton where you can get that hunting license.
Illinois has a hunting grandfather clause! Anyone born after January 1, 1980 is required to take and complete a Hunter Safety Education Course.
What Can be Hunted?
Our state is rich in game and the list of wildlife that can be hunted legally is long and diverse, offering plenty of opportunity for a wide range of skilled hunters. Coyote, deer, crow, dove, waterfowl, geese and bobcat are just a few of the animals you can find listed on the Illinois Hunting and Trapping Regulations Handbook of 2020-21.
When Can We Hunt?
Hunting seasons depend entirely upon the game in question. Be sure to refer to the Illinois Hunting and Trapping Handbook for the seasonal dates, you can find the link in the number 5 section of this article. As we mentioned in our incredibly catchy and hilarious introduction, it really is deer hunting archery season (deer season ends on January 17th) ! We don’t sell bows at Powell’s, but hey… we’ll look into it!
Where Can We Hunt?
The Illinois Department of Natural Resources has designated many sites across the state as Public Hunting Areas. Some areas require special Windshield Cards so reference the hunter fact sheet before planning the location of your next hunting day.
How Much?
We have some great news for you, Illinois has some of the most affordable hunting license fees in the entire nation! The rates very according to the category of license applicants are pursuing so be sure to select the correct application.
Here is an example highlighting the great hunting rates offered here in the land of Lincoln: in-state residents only have to pay $12.50 cents for a hunting license! Come on guys! That’s less than a Chipotle Burrito with chips and guacamole. Talk about a steal.
Visitors can grab a temporary hunting license (valid for 5 days) for as little as $35.75. Like we said, rates are affordable across the board. Be sure and head over to the Department of Natural Resources site to check the license fees for every category of hunter.
What Can I Use to Hunt?
This one is a big deal friends, it is against the law to hunt any protected species with a weapon other than a bow or a gun in Illinois. Each species has weapon and ammunition regulations that can be found here.
Are There Any Regulations on Hunting Attire?
Yes! A solid pink or orange cap and an outer garment displaying at least 400 square inches of solid blaze pink or orange must be worn when hunting deer and turkey during firearm season.
Although this article covered most of the rules and information regarding hunting and obtaining a hunting license in Illinois we ALWAYS recommend that our patrons be safe and take time researching the rules found at… you guessed it… the Illinois Department of Natural Resources website. Be safe, have fun, and remember, it’s deer hunting season!
That’s all folks. Unless — it isn’t deer season in Illinois — then enjoy some Toons
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