Fish & Hunt License- Police-100th GA - HB 3750

Fish & Hunt License- Police-100th GA - HB 3750

Representative Katie Stuart (D)

Filed: HB 3750 on 2-10-17

Amends the Fish and Aquatic Life Code and the Wildlife Code. Provides that the respective fees for resident fishing, combination sportsmen, and hunting licenses are waived for current and retired State, municipal, and local law enforcement officers.

Previous Actions:

• Date - Chamber - Action
• 2/10/2017 House Filed with the Clerk by Rep. Katie Stuart
• 2/10/2017 House First Reading
• 2/10/2017 House Referred to Rules Committee
• 3/1/2017 House Assigned to Agriculture & Conservation Committee
• 3/21/2017 House Do Pass / Standard Debate Agriculture & Conservation Committee; 008-005-001
• 3/22/2017 House Placed on Calendar 2nd Reading - Standard Debate
• 3/23/2017 House Second Reading - Standard Debate
• 3/23/2017 House Placed on Calendar Order of 3rd Reading - Standard Debate

Remember Enjoy the Outdoors, Good Luck and Stay Safe

                       

5 YR Hunting & Fishing License- 100th GA - HB 3373

5 YR Hunting & Fishing License- 100th GA - HB 3373

Representative Daniel V. Beiser (D)

Filed: HB 3373 on 2-9-17

Amends the Fish and Aquatic Life Code. Provides that residents of this State may obtain a 5-year fishing license. Provides that the fee for a 5-year fishing license is $62.50. Provides that for residents age 65 or older, the fee is one-half of the fee charged for a 5-year fishing license. Provides that for resident veterans of the United States Armed Forces after returning from service abroad or mobilization by the President of the United States, the fee is one-half of the fee charged for a 5-year fishing license. Provides that residents of this State may obtain a 5-year sportsmen's combination license that shall entitle the holder to the same non-commercial fishing privileges as residents holding a license and to the same hunting privileges as residents holding a license to hunt all species under the Wildlife Code. Provides that the 5-year sportsmen's combination license fee shall be $112.50. Provides that no sportsmen's combination license shall be issued to any individual who would be ineligible for either the fishing or hunting license separately. Provides that for residents age 65 or older, the fee is one-half of the fee charged for a 5-year sportsmen's combination license. Provides that for resident veterans of the United States Armed Forces after returning from service abroad or mobilization by the President of the United States, the fee is one-half of the fee charged for a 5-year sportsmen's combination license. Amends the Wildlife Code. Provides that residents of this State may obtain a 5-year hunting license to hunt all species for $52. Provides that for residents age 65 or older and resident veterans of the United States Armed Forces after returning from service abroad or mobilization by the President of the United States, the fee is one-half of the fee charged for a 5-year hunting license.

Hearings:  None Scheduled at this time.

Previous Actions:

• Date - Chamber - Action
• 2/9/2017 House Filed with the Clerk by Rep. Daniel V. Beiser
• 2/10/2017 House First Reading
• 2/10/2017 House Referred to Rules Committee

Remember Enjoy the Outdoors, Good Luck and Stay Safe

                       

Illinois Spring Trout Season Announced

Illinois Spring Trout Season Announced

It's that time of the year again. The annual Illinois Spring Trout Fishing Season Opens April 1, 2017 at 18 various sites in Illinois.  If you've never taken your kid fishing or want to introduce someone to fishing this is the best way to do it.  Trout fishing is fast and fun.  Remember, Illinois also has a special fly fishing season, so get out there and try your luck.  If you would like to know more about what we use for trout fishing you can read one of our old articles all about it.  Capitol Outdoors' Tips and Tricks for Inland Trout Fishing.  Below you'll see the official press release from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources.

Be a Voice for the Outdoors During Illinois' 100th General Assembly

Be a Voice for the Outdoors During Illinois' 100th General Assembly

There are over 7,000 bills introduced each year in the Illinois General Assembly.  At Capitol Outdoors we keep you the hunter, angler and outdoor enthusiasts informed about your passion.  With several bills already being filed, things will start to move quickly.

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources is underfunded and overworked and it's important that the hunters, anglers, and outdoor enthusiasts stay informed on policy in Springfield.  It's time to stand up and make sure that legislators hear our voice.  Now I'm not saying we protest,  I'm saying that we need to have better relationships with our elected officials.  It's not enough to just call but make it a point that they know who you are!  As a hunter, angler or outdoor enthusiast if you don't speak up for your state parks, CPOs, and all outdoor opportunities, who will?   It's time!

With the new General Assembly comes new politicians, new committee appointments and new egos.  While it's important to make sure you contact your legislator on issues, it's as important if not more important to contact the members of the committees as a bill is being introduced.  If a bill is going to see time on the floor of the house or senate it will first have to go through either House Agriculture & Conservation Committee, the Senate Environment and Conservation Committee or one of the several other committees.  Make sure to subscribe to the Capitol Happenings to stay informed during this General Assembly.

Here is the list of members of the House Ag and Conservation and the Senate Environment and Conservation committees.

Will you be a voice for the outdoors?

Remember Enjoy the Outdoors, Good Luck and Stay Safe

                       

2017 Recap of the Pantagraph's Fish and Feather Expo

2017 Recap of the Pantagraph's Fish and Feather Expo

 

During expo season there are always those shows that you don't make it to.  Whether it is because it is too far away, too expensive or in some cases the show is a waste of time. That was how we felt about this show last year.  We didn't attend because we didn't find it worth our time and money.

However, optimism took over this year when we found out that the Pantagraph bought the Fish and Feather Expo. Within social media circles people were very excited about this because last year's show was not up to par.  When you are competing with shows like the Quad Cities, Elmwood, Tinley Park and Collinsville it is easy to see how you would be let down.

Anglers should Sign Up for B.A.S.S Fantasy League and Watch Bassmaster Live

Anglers should Sign Up for B.A.S.S Fantasy League and Watch Bassmaster Live

Today is the first day you can start making your line up for B.A.S.S Fantasy Fishing.  Not sure if you want to sign up, you're not alone check out how we were last year. 

Last year, I was browsing online when the B.A.S.S Facebook page mentioned new registration for the Bassmaster Fantasy Fishing Team.  Never really being into the whole fantasy thing I decided to take a step out of my comfort zone in hopes of learning something new.

My knowledge of the Bassmaster's is very limited at this point. Back in 2000, I attended the Classic that was held in Chicago with Woo Daves winning it all. Because the Classic was in Chicago there were many meet and greets and this is where I had the privilege of meeting KVD.

Memories Afield Don't have to Include a Kill or Catch

Memories Afield Don't have to Include a Kill or Catch

Like so many of you, once Wednesday approaches I start planning my weekend.  This past weekend was no exception.  I planned on going ice fishing, I didn't know where, or when but I was going.  As Sunday approached i decided to hit Jim Edgar Panther Creek but since I've hit Gridley Lake already a few times and the ice conditions have been iffy at Prairie I decided to do a quick ice check and go.

I started by hitting deep water, then shallow, then deep then shallow and nothing.  Finally spotted a fish on the vexilar and just as soon as he was there it was gone.  Ding, my phone goes off.  It's an old college buddy that I've stayed in contact with over the past few years.  As I mentioned, Adam is an old college buddy who loves the outdoors just as much as the rest of us. 

Meeting up with an old buddy to do some ice fishing sounds good to me.  We got to the lake walked out on the ice drilled a hole nothing, moved to another, nothing after about 20 holes we decided to call it a day.  Check out those big ones :)

It didn't matter whether we caught any or not, for me it was about getting outside to enjoy some fishing with a college buddy.

Remember Enjoy the Outdoors, Good Luck and Stay Safe

                       

Illinois DNR Releases 2017 Action Plan to Manage Asian Carp

We've all seen it, those Youtube videos of that guy on skis catching Asian Carp in a net, or how about the redneck fishing tournament.  Regardless, anglers, hunters and outdoor enthusiasts can agree that the spread of Asian Carp needs to stop.  At this point it will be nearly impossible to eradicate this invasive species that has spread throughout the Mississippi River Tributaries.  We may not be able to catch them all but we can manage them and stop new lakes, rivers, etc from being invaded.  The Illinois Department of Natural Resources released their 2017 Action plan which details their strategy to manage the threat of Asian Carp into the great lakes.  With federal, state, local, and non-profit agencies in the mix let's all pray that 2017 Asian Carp Action Plan is the start of something great.

2017 Action Plan Details Strategy to Manage Threat of Asian Carp in Great Lakes

The Asian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee (ACRCC) announced the release of its Fiscal Year 2017 Action Plan today. The Action Plan document details 60 high-priority strategic measures designed to manage the threat of four species of invasive Asian carp in the Great Lakes.


The Plan serves as a foundation for the work of the ACRCC partnership — a collaboration of 27 U.S. and Canadian federal, state, provincial, and local agencies and organizations. The 2017 Plan builds on prior strategies by applying lessons learned through research and additions of new technologies and control measures. The Plan also carries forward a new interagency contingency response plan developed for potential rapid-response to detections of Asian carp at all life stages in unexpected areas of the upper Illinois River and Chicago Area Waterway System.

“This Action Plan continues to show our unified resolve to keep Asian Carp from invading the Great Lakes,” said Bill Bolen, USEPA Senior Advisor and co-chair of the ACRCC. “We intend to employ every effort necessary to protect this precious resource.

“The Great Lakes are an amazing resource that face numerous and evolving threats,” said U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Midwest Regional Director Charlie Wooley. “These threats require a constant, coordinated and creative effort to keep at bay. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is proud to be part of this Action Plan and to help protect the Great Lakes.”

“Keeping Asian carp from establishing a population in the Great Lakes is a shared effort. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is pleased to be among the agencies contributing to the 2017 ACRCC Action Plan, with efforts focusing on operating and maintaining the electric barrier system, continued monitoring efforts and the Great Lakes and Mississippi River Interbasin Study,” said Col. Christopher Drew, Commander, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Chicago District.

This year $17 million of Great Lakes Restoration Initiative funding, in addition to more than $25 million of federal agency base funding, will be used by partners to implement key projects and initiatives to safeguard the Great Lakes from invasive bighead, silver, grass and black carps.

“USGS Asian carp science is focused on early detection, risk assessment and development of control tools and strategies,” said Leon Carl, USGS Midwest Regional Director. “The tools and technologies we have developed are aimed at effectively informing and supporting Asian carp management strategies for preventing the spread of Asian carp in the nation’s waterways.” 

“Each member of the ACRCC plays an important role in keeping Asian carp from becoming established in the Great Lakes, and the Illinois Department of Natural Resources was proud to lead efforts to remove over one million pounds of Asian carp from the upper Illinois River in 2016,” said Illinois DNR Asian carp biologist Kevin Irons. “Working together, we are keeping them away from the electric barrier system and out of Lake Michigan.”

Read the 2017 Asian Carp Action Plan.

Remember Enjoy the Outdoors, Good Luck and Stay Safe

                       

Recapping the Let's Go Fishing Show in Collinsville, Ilinois

Recapping the Let's Go Fishing Show in Collinsville, Illinois

This weekend was a busy one for a lot of fishing vendors in Illinois.  While the Muskie Show was going on in Northern Illinois, the Let's Go Fishing Show was going on in Collinsville, Illinois.  Yup, the Expo Season has begun.

I have attended this show for many years and always have a good time, however, this year there were some differences.  I noticed that there weren't as many fishing vendors around the expo floor this year and you could see an increase in the housing vendors. You know the gutter guys, the shoe insert people and there was even this booth selling really cool gear toys for kids. Although some things were interesting to look at, I didn't travel down to Collinsville to look at that stuff. 

Illinois Conservation Police Layoffs Averted

Illinois Conservation Police Layoffs Averted

Governor Rauner Administration has reached a collective bargaining agreement

Good news released today!

The Rauner Administration has reached an agreement with the Illinois Faternal Order of Police to forego layoffs, negotiations included a four year wage freeze. As you know CPOs are vital to the state's natural resources and parks and they provide enforcement to protect wildlife. 

We applaud the Rauner Administration and the Illinois Fraternal Order of Police for coming to an agreement so that our state's natural resources can be protected.

 

This agreement also stated that work will be done to expand staffing levels. Currently, there are not enough conservation officers throughout the state and unfortunately this lack of officers affects our state parks, wildlife and the habitat that they live in.

With crumbling state parks and the DNR budget continuing to decrease this is a small victory for outdoors men and women throughout Illinois.

The following is a press release from the Governor's Office.

SPRINGFIELD - Governor Bruce Rauner announced today the Administration has reached a collective bargaining agreement with the Illinois Fraternal Order of Police Labor Council representing Illinois Conservation Police Officers.

"Through fair and good faith negotiations, we were able to reach a compromise that continues to protect our state parks and other natural resources," Rauner General Counsel Dennis Murashko said. "This new contract is fair to both state employees and taxpayers, and we look forward to continuing our partnership while working together to serve the citizens of Illinois."

The agreement includes a four-year wage freeze and ensures no conservation police officers will be laid off, while we work to expand staffing levels.

Talking with Jim Crowley from Hook & Hunt TV

Talking with Jim Crowley from Hook & Hunt TV

Several years ago I entered the Bass Pro Shops in East Peoria to do some shopping for the upcoming fishing season.  During the duration of our visit, they kept mentioning on the loud speaker about a seminar that was going to be taking place at the fish tank.   "Jim Crowley from Hook and Hunt TV will be doing a  seminar on..." the announcement said.   I love watching these seminars because there is so much knowledge jammed packed into about 10 minutes.

Illinois Hunting, Fishing & Outdoor Expos 2017

Illinois Hunting, Fishing & Outdoor Expos 2017

Expo season is right around the corner and we will be attending many of the expos around the State of Illinois. 

If you know of an outdoor show in your area, let us know about it! Capitol Outdoors is available to speak at your event!

- Let’s Go Fishing Show
Collinsville, Illinois
Jan. 6-8th 2017


-Chicago Muskie Expo
Chicago, Illinois
Jan. 6-8th 2017

- Chicago Boat, RV & Outdoors Show
Chicago, Illinois
Jan. 11-15th 2017

- All-Canada Show
St. Charles, Illinois
Jan. 12-15th 2017

- Chicago Outdoor Sports Show
Rosemont, Illinois
Jan. 19-22nd 2017

-Chicagoland Gunshow
Rosemont, Illinois
Jan, 19-22nd 2017

-Illinois Fish & Feather Expo
Bloomington, Illinois
Jan. 27-29th 2017

-Chicagoland Fishing, Travel & Outdoor Expo
Schaumburg, Illinois
Jan. 26-29th  2017

-Tinley Park Fishing Big Show 
Tinley Park,Illinois
Feb. 11-12th 2017

-Rockford Boat, Vacation & Fishing Show
Rockford, Illinois
Feb. 17-19th 2017

-Central Illinois Outdoor Expo
Arthur, Illinois
February 10-11th 2017

- The QCCA Expo Center Outdoor Show
Rock Island, Illinois

Feb. 16-19th 2017

-Pheasant Fest (National)
Minneapolis
Feb 17-19th 2017

-Indiana Deer, Turkey & Waterfowl Expo
Indiana State Fairgrounds
Feb. 23-26th 2017

-Elmwood All Outdoors Show
Elmwood High School
March 4-5th 2017

-Ducks Unlimited National Convention
May 31 - June 4th 2017
San Antonio, Texas

-Spring Valley Outdoors Expo
Spring Valley, IL
TBD

-Midwest Hunt Fest
Wichita, Kansas
TBD

-ICAST 2017
Orlando, Florida
July 11-14th 2017

-Illinois Deer & Turkey Expo
Peoria, Illinois
July 28 - 30th 2017

-Northern Illinois Hunting & Fishing Days 
Silver Springs State Park, Yorkville Illinois
TBD

-Southern Illinois Hunting & Fishing Days 
Carterville, Illinois
TBD

More shows and dates will be added as they become available. 

Email us if you would like something on this list. 

Hunting and Fishing Black Friday Ads 2016

Outdoor Black Friday Ads 2016

Who doesn't like a good deal, right? Whether you are out this Black Friday shopping for deals or in the blind hunting for ducks, we have gathered some ads for you to look at.

Many people shop on Black Friday for Christmas gifts, however a better idea is to look for deals to replenish your supplies.  Stock up on that hunting and fishing gear so that you don't feel it in the wallet when that time comes.

And as always when you are out shopping this Christmas Season remember those that are less fortunate.

Academy Sports

Bass Pro

Blain's Farm and Fleet

Cabelas 

Dicks Sporting Goods

Farm and Home 

Field and Stream

Gander Mountain

Presley's

Scheels

Sportsman Warehouse

Election Day 2016 could put Illinois DNR in the Crosshairs of a Budget Issue

Election Day 2016 could put Illinois DNR in the Crosshairs of a Budget Issue

The November 8th ballot will contain more than voting for President and other state and local officials. You will also have the opportunity to vote for a constitutional amendment. The Safe Roads Amendment would require that all transportation-related revenue (gas tax, license plate fees, registration fees etc) be used solely for roads, streets, highways, bridges and mass transit.

25 Years in the Making

25 Years in the Making

The thing that I love about fishing is that you'll never know what you'll catch.  This past weekend was the opening for fall trout at over 50 lakes across Illinois.  Did you go out?  Many of you were probably duck hunting or sitting in your deer stand.

For the past several years we've been reporting about how the spring and fall trout release is perfect for teaching kids the basics about fishing, as well as having a fun filled adventure.  I know because there were two types of fishing that I can remember from when I was a kid.

The first is fishing Navy Pier for perch.  While the perch are not as abundant as they used to be perch fishing is another type of fishing that is great to teach kids.  The second is trout fishing.

This past weekend my dad and I fished Jim Edgar Panther Creek's Gridley Lake in Cass County.  As we launched the boat and started fishing the deep hole that we planned, we heard a lot of people talking about how they were finding the fish more in the shallows.

After trying several  areas that were more shallow and letting several hours pass, we were still unsuccessful.   All of a sudden my dad said what's that?  I as looked in the water I saw a golden trout.

You might be asking, what is a golden trout?  

A golden trout results from a genetic anomaly, and contrary to popular belief, this is NOT an albino, but simply a rainbow trout with different coloration. In the wild they are weeded out early by predation, but in a hatchery situation they are protected and do well. Since we stock trout in Illinois from the hatcheries, you have a good chance of catching a “golden.” Anglers love to catch them.  IFishIllinois

My dad grabbed is slip bobber and tossed it over by him.  Nothing... All of a sudden I caught him in the corner of my eye.  I grabbed the little Cleo we had tied on.  I tossed it out and it began following it.  Again nothing, so I tried it a couple times then finally a hit.  Reeling in this Golden Trout was amazing, after 25 years of fishing and I finally caught one :).  And the fishing continued, within 5 minutes I reeled a Rainbow Trout.  Finally, my dad tied on a Celo and after about 15 minutes he caught a  Golden Trout as well. In fact, that was my dad's first Golden Trout!

The whole day out fishing and we caught our only three fish within 20 minutes.  Fishing, you never know how it is going to go.  But, hey we caught our trophies for the day and made memories for a life time.

Illinois Fall Trout Season Opens October 15

Illinois Fall Trout Season Opens October 15

The Fall Catch-and-Release Fly Fishing-Only Season Opens October 1 at nine sites

'Yes, it's that time of year again.  Fall Inland Trout Season is upon us.  This is a great opportunity to take your kids, loved ones and even experienced anglers out to catch these fun fighting fish.  Below you'll see the press release from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources.  Never been trout fishing? Don't worry Capitol Outdoors has you covered.  Watch our episode at Southwind Park in Springfield, Illinois or you can read a past article where we explain how to catch some trout.   Don't forget to purchase the inland trout stamp.

The 2016 Illinois Fall Trout Fishing Season will open on Saturday, Oct. 15 at 53 ponds, lakes, and streams throughout the state.

Two weeks prior to the fall trout opener, the Fall Catch-and-Release Fly Fishing-only Season will open at nine sites (locations marked with an asterisk (*) in the list below) on Saturday, Oct. 1. Fly fishing anglers can use fly fishing gear to catch and release trout beginning Oct. 1 at those nine sites. No trout may be kept during the fly fishing-only period, but anglers can keep trout after the opening of the regular fall trout season beginning Oct. 15.

Pat Harrison Outdoor Adventures : Fishing the Chicago River & Lakefront 2016

Pat Harrison Outdoor Adventures : Fishing the Chicago River & Lakefront 2016

The morning started with a cup of coffee and mild Chicago traffic as I made my way down to Richard J. Daley Boat Ramp.  On this day, I'm meeting up with Captain Pat Harrison from Pat Harrison Outdoors - Fishing Adventure. 

Conservation Day at Illinois State Fair

August 20, 2016 - Springfield, Illinois

Today was Conservation Day at the State Fair and there were many activities to enjoy with the entire family.  Forty-five different park districts attended the event with different events lined up throughout the day.  Governor Rauner was also there and signed four bills aimed toward Conservation and Youth Hunting.

"Investing in young hunters and fishers helps implant a great love for the outdoors that will continue through a lifetime," said Governor Rauner. "As an avid hunter and fisherman, I believe in utilizing Illinois' vast natural resources to enhance our quality of life while also protecting them for future generations to enjoy. "

Lincoln Bass Club Hits Jim Edgar Panther Creek

Lincoln Bass Club Hits Jim Edgar Panther Creek 

This past weekend was spent on the water with my dad at Prairie Lake.  We had a great time catching fish and learning the lake a little better.  While out there we noticed that there was a little extra boat traffic on the water.  Yep... That's right a bass tournament was going on. We chatted with a few guys on the water and then moments later watched them land a nice bass.  While my dad and I fished we watched many of the anglers scatter across the lake and we decided to go watch the weigh-in.

Illinois Bait Shop: River's Edge Outdoor Sporting Goods

Illinois Bait Shop: River's Edge Outdoor Sporting Goods 

During the dog days of summer sometimes you just need a break.  It's not the fishing or the outdoors you need a break from, it's the heat.  Capitol Outdoors was able to beat the heat and continue our series on Illinois Bait Shops.

Not going to lie, we found out about this shop by accident.  Our friend and follower Courtland Williams invited us to a seminar that he and Rob Crane were having at there so we decided to check it out.


River's Edge Outdoor Sporting Goods is located in Canton, Illinois just minutes away from Emiquon and Banner Marsh.

They are an outstanding shop. I was stunned and awed, not because of all the fishing and hunting gear they had, but by the size of the place.  They have six 20yard lanes and several 10 meter and 15 meter lanes for the NASP program.  And they also have a classroom where seminars and concealed carry classes can be held.  "We're trying to bring in hunter education classes it's something we're still working on" said Marcus Hale Owner.

River's Edge is deeply rooted in their community.  In fact, Marcus' wife Angela is an Alderwoman in Canton, and both are extremely passionate about  the local youth archery club.

I realized that this wasn't your average baitshop, but as the company name suggests it's a small sporting goods store."When we started, we only had a third of what you see here" said Marcus. I walked around the store looking at all their inventory: crank baits, plastics, livebait, stinkbait and everything else you can think of.  "If we don't have what you are looking for, we can special order it for you" he said.  That's the type of place River's Edge Outdoors is.

It's that great customer service, the good deals, and willingess to go the extra mile to help you out that makes River's Edge.  For only being established for one year and overcoming their own challenges,  River's Edge is on its way to bigger and more prosperous times.   If you are looking for a bait shop along the Illinois rivers edge swing by Canton's Number One Bait Shop, River's Edge Outdoor Sporting Goods.  You won't regret it.