Hunting Fun

Illinois deer hunting is one of the most sought after adventures for every hunter. Illinois offers acres upon acres of land that in 1980, the white-tailed deer has been hailed by Illinois’ very children to be the State animal. In the middle of 1800′s the demand for deer rose up that the species diminished completely from their land. Fortunately enough, years after, the State’s Department of Conservation created a method to bring back the population of deer that have grazed their land in earlier times. Today, Illinois has become one of the Mecca for deer hunters from all walks of life. In fact, so many private owners have turned their wide expanse of private lands to cater to deer enthusiasts who travel far and wide for a good game and by chance, have come knocking on their doors.

Many of these private lands are inhabited by deer herds that there is only a few options left for locals to hunt on today. Public properties that carry good games have become scarce and people who would want to avail of these public lands need to share with quite a number of hunters enjoying the season for hunting deer. Thus, the only option left for those who value the gifts of perseverance is the Shawnee National Forest which located at the southern part of Illinois. The land, unlike any other area visited in Illinois, is rugged and the environment is covered with hickory and oak. Illinois deer hunting is also an adventure in the Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie which is situated in the Northeastern part. This public land features 6,409 acres of habitat for deer hunting which would be small feat compared to Shawnee National Forest. The only effort a hunter would consider is to walk before getting to the habitat itself.

The State law also encourages every resident and non-resident alike to own their own license before they take themselves hunting, this makes it easier for the government to regulate hunting activities. In 2008 deer hunting was priced to about 15 dollars for residents and 30 dollars for those who are not. Illinois’ deer population was estimated to be 800,000 and the amount of recorded deer harvest went up to 198,670 with hunters amounting to 380,000.

As a precaution to the possibility of unintended accidents in hunting trips, Illinois deer hunting community and other hunters alike are supported by the State to undergo a hunter education program lasting to a minimum of ten hours of instruction about wildlife management and conservation, their responsibilities as hunters and field safety training. This also includes the art of archery and muzzle loading and education on state regulations and how to apply first aid in cases of accidents. Every participant who would spend time to completing this course would be awarded with a graduate patch and a Certificate of Competency. This program created by the State of Illinois would not only guarantee the safety of their hunters but also the promotion of their wildlife protection programs because people are educated on their roles as citizens and hunters.

By: G Andrews

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