Illinois Fall Trout Season Opens October 20

Update:  Capitol Outdoors was just informed that several lakes were not included in this list for Dupage County:  Silver Lake at Blackwell, Pickerel Lake at Pratt’s Wayne Woods in Wayne and Grove Lake at Wood Dale Grove in Wood Dale.
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If you've been following Capitol Outdoors for a while, you've seen we're big fans of the Spring and Fall Inland Trout Season.  It's a great time to introduce new people to fishing and just a good time to be outside.  This season, however, is going to be a little different for me when it comes to the opener.  You see, some of my very first fishing memories were of me inland trout fishing and now I get to share those moments with my daughter Autumn. It has been fun watching her as she experiences the outdoors.

This year, 57 (four new fall sites added) sites will be stocked prior to opening day, which is October 20th.  Remember to buy that trout stamp, because without it the program would not exist.  

Read some of our other articles "Capitol Outdoors' Tips and Tricks for Inland Trout Fishing" watch our youtube video from a few years back - Trout Fishing at Southwind Park Springfield.

Illinois Fall Trout Season Opens October 20

The Fall Catch-and-Release Fly Fishing Season Opens October 6 at select sites*

2017 fall opener at Gridley Lake

SPRINGFIELD, IL – The 2018 Illinois Fall Trout Fishing Season opens on Saturday, Oct. 20 at 57 ponds, lakes, and streams throughout the state.

Jim Edgar Panther Creek State Fish and Wildlife Area Trapping Allocation Permit Drawing 2018

Jim Edgar Panther Creek State Fish and Wildlife area will be having their trapping permit allocation on October 6th at 1:30 pm.  Registration for the drawing will begin at 1:00 pm.  Trapping is a vital part of conservation and helps keep wildlife population in check.  If you've been to Gridley Lake lately, you'll see the beavers have gone to town on the trees.   Below you'll see all the information you'll need if you are interested.   Good luck. 

Trapping Demonstration at 2017 National Convention  in Winnebago County

IDNR to Allocate Trapping Permits for Jim Edgar Panther Creek SFWA

CHANDLERVILLE, IL – A public drawing for the allocation of trapping permits for Jim Edgar Panther Creek State Fish and Wildlife Area will be held on Sat., Oct. 6, 2018 at 1:30 p.m. Registration will begin at 1:00 p.m. at the site headquarters, located approximately five miles southeast of Chandlerville.

Outdoor News and Dates for September 2018 - Illinois Department of Natural Resources

The IDNR Newsbits is a quick 411 of events and dates provided by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources each month.  While this is not a full list of outdoor events throughout the state, this is a great list if you are interested in agency events.

IDNR Newsbits for September 2018

Dove and Upland Game Hunters Beware of New Non-Toxic Restrictions

We at CO have been using non-toxic shot for a while now, not necessarily because it is eco friendly, but because most of the sites we go to have it as a mandatory regulation.  The IDNR is now putting even more sites under the non-toxic shot restriction.  With DOVE hunting opening September 1st (tomorrow) please share this, so fellow hunters know and obey site rules. 

Non-toxic Shot Requirements in Effect at Additional Illinois Hunting Sites for 2018-19 Dove, Controlled Pheasant and Upland Hunting Seasons

From page 38 of the 2018 - 2019 Illinois Hunter Digest 

Illinois Waterfowl Hunting Dates for 2018 - 2019 Released

A little over a month ago waterfowl hunters from across the state came together for the 2018 - 2019 waterfowl blind allocations.  Below you'll see the respected zone and their dates for the 2018 -2019 Illinois Waterfowl Season.  Again a 60 day duck season, 100 day Canada goose season and a liberal teal season are all evidence of great conservation by you the hunter and supporter of wetlands. 

IDNR Announces 2018-19 Waterfowl Hunting Season Dates

IDNR and ICF Honor Volunteer of the Year Recipients and Hall of Fame Inductees During Conservation Day at Illinois State Fair

Conservation Day at the 2018 State Fair was buzzing with activity.  Governor Rauner signed two pieces of legislation, volunteers received recognition as well as the Illinois Outdoor Hall of Fame Class of 2018 was recognized.  You can watch the LIVE broadcast here:

The 2018 IDNR Outstanding Volunteers of the Year are:

IDNR Events and Permit Deadlines - August 2018 Newsbits

Here is a list of events, permits deadlines and more from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources.

Illinois DNR Newsbits – August 2018

Firearm Deer Permits: Permit applications will be accepted until Aug. 17 for the third lottery drawing for 2018 Illinois firearm and muzzleloader deer permits. For details, check the IDNR website at https://www.dnr.illinois.gov/hunting/Pages/DeerHunting.aspx

Illinois Controlled Pheasant Hunting Reservations Open August 6th

Controlled pheasant hunting is right around the corner and starting August 6th at 8:30 a.m. upland hunters will be able to apply for a permit.  There will be 18 sites throughout Illinois this year where you can put your wingshooting and dog handling skills to the test.  

Below you'll see all the information regarding one of Illinois' most popular outdoor activities. 

Illinois Controlled Pheasant Hunting Reservation Information Now Available Online

Online application period for IDNR-managed sites begins Aug. 6

Last year our family headed out to Jim Edgar Panther Creek and did some Upland Hunting

Information Regarding Youth Firearm Deer Season at Jim Edgar Panther Creek

You hear it all the time from non-profits, agencies and others, we need to get youth involved in hunting, fishing and other outdoor activities.  Here is another good event.  A total of 75 youth hunters will have the privilege of shotgun hunting Jim Edgar Panther Creek October 6 - 8.  Not only is it a good opportunity for youth to get involved, but it's on some of the best public hunting in Illinois.  If you have a youth that is interested, make sure to follow the instructions below.  Since, this weekend is also the first weekend of the archery season, hunters may have to rearrange a few things as archery hunters will NOT be allowed to hunt in the Open Units. 

Apply Now for Youth Firearm Deer Season at Jim Edgar Panther Creek State Fish and Wildlife Area

Youth season is a great opportunity to get youth the experience in the outdoors.

Illinois Department of Natural Resources host Bowfishing Tournament July 21

Bowfishing, like so much of the fishing industry, is picking up speed across the country. Much of this increase is due to the invasive species Asian Carp.  Asian carp have been around for quite some time battling their way into our ecosystem. This past year there has been some national attention from professional bass anglers, and politicians like Illinois Lt. Governor and Congressman Adam Kinzinger.  However, the idea to fight and push back against this invasive species is still up for debate due to the increasing cost.  

As some of you know the IDNR has hired commercial fishermen to help dent the population in Northern Illinois along the Dredsend Dam.  But what about the rest of the state?  The IDNR is hosting a Bowfishing Tournament at Wood Duck Marina near Baldwin, Illinois.  This is sure to be a great time and fun for the whole family.  Check the full press release below for price and more information on the tournament.  

Kaskaskia River Rough Fish Roundup Bowfishing

Tournament Planned for July 21

QUACK QUACK... IDNR Releases Dates for and Locations for Waterfowl Blind Drawings

North cool breeze is on the horizon.  It may not seem like it now but, to a public land waterfowl hunter this is the time of year where the blood starts to pump.  It's the first step to those cooler days and waterfowl locked up in your face.  Each year the IDNR draws blinds for  public waterfowl hunting.  There are a few days, so try your luck at multiple locations.  Bring the family it's a good time to cook out have some laugh and hope the odds are in your favor.  In bold you'll see some of the crucial information you'll need in order to qualify for the drawings.  

IDNR Announces Schedule of Waterfowl Blind Site Drawings

Drawings to be held for public hunting area waterfowl blind sites

Auction of Confiscated and Abandoned Property hosted by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources

As hunters and anglers we're always looking for a good deal.  Many times those deals are found in the off season or in discount sections at various online and other retailers.  What if I told you, you could find a good discount and that the money you pay for your item goes into the State Fish and Wildlife Fund?

We've all heard stories about the poachers that have had their equipment confiscated because of their crimes and other equipment is just left in the field.  Have you ever wondered what happens to that equipment?  This weekend the Illinois Department of Natural Resources is hosting an auction in regards to confiscated and abandoned property.

The last time an auction was held was back in 2013 and it raised $53,145.00.  If you're looking for a good time with food and good deals make sure to put this on your calendar for the weekend.

Read below to read the Illinois Department of Natural Resources Press release and the items up for auction.

IDNR to Conduct Auction of Confiscated and Abandoned Property

Here is a great family opportunity from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources at one of Illinois most exciting parks.  

Fishing Event a Great Catch for Families at Pere Marquette State Park

28th Annual Two Rivers Family Fishing Fair on June 9

GRAFTON, IL – For a day filled with fun and educational activities for the entire family, check out the Two Rivers Family Fishing Fair onSaturday, June 9 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Pere Marquette State Park near Grafton, on Illinois Route 100.

Outdoor Events During the Month of May 2018

A variety of outdoor and cultural experiences are listed in this months IDNR Newsbits.

IDNR Newbits – May 2018

Firearm Deer Permit Applications: Resident and non-resident deer hunters can apply for the second lottery drawing for 2018 Illinois Firearm Deer and Muzzleloader-only Deer permits. The deadline to apply for the second lottery is June 30. For more information, check the IDNR website at https://www.dnr.illinois.gov/hunting/Pages/DeerHunting.aspx

Mushroom Collecting: Reminder to mushroom collectors – no license is required, but mushroom collectors must have landowner permission and, on public sites, must adhere to approved collecting regulations and hours. Collection of mushrooms is allowed at many IDNR sites, but it is prohibited in any area designated as a dedicated nature preserve. Areas under the jurisdiction of the IDNR that offer spring turkey hunting are not open to mushroom collecting until after 1 p.m. daily during the spring turkey season to ensure the safety of all site visitors. Be sure to call ahead to the state site you intend to visit to learn of any site-specific regulations regarding mushroom collecting.

A Reminder to Leave Young Wildlife Alone

While the majority of you that are reading this article probably already know not to mess with young that look helpless.  However, there are still some that pick up and keep young wildlife.  Here is a reminder from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources.  

Spring Breeding Season Reminder: Leave Young Wildlife Alone

It is Against the Law to Keep Wildlife as Pets

SPRINGFIELD, IL – The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) is reminding Illinois citizens to leave baby birds and wild animals alone.

Spring brings flowers and abundance of new wildlife.  

Illinois Bowfishing Comes Back to Des Plaines State Fish and Wildlife Area for Festival and Conservation Shoot

What a great opportunity to get the family involved in the outdoors.  Take a look at the press release from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources.  The Illinois Bowfishing Festival will be held on May 19 at Des Plaines SFWA.

Illinois Bowfishing Festival and Conservation Shoot Set for May 19 at Des Plaines SFWA

WILMINGTON, IL – Illinois’ Bowfishing Festival and Conservation Shoot at the Des Plaines State Fish and Wildlife Area boat access area is scheduled for Saturday, May 19.

Week of April 23, 2018 - Illinois 100th General Assembly Legislative Update

Both the House and Senate were busy in their respective chambers this week.  Below you will see the action taken on the outdoor related bills we are following. Click on each link to read more about each bill.

HOUSE

Agriculture Committee Action:

HB 5293 - Endangered Species FA #1 (Adopted 13-0-0)

• Amended to change to one member of the Endangered Species Board shall be a landowner representing the State's largest general farm organization.

HOUSE Floor:
HB 5440 - Youth Hunting (Passed 108-0-0)

• Provides the the fee for resident and non-resident youth archery deer permit shall be the same. 
• For example, out of state family under the age of 18 would be able to hunt for the same cost as a resident youth of the State of Illinois. 

SENATE

Agriculture Committee Action 

SB 2493 - Deer Feed FA#1 (Passed 8-0-0)

• Creates a two year study on supplemental feeding of deer. University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine in consultation with the DNR will conduct the study. 
• DNR is neutral on the bill as a pilot program. 

Senate Floor:

SB 2295- FISHING LICENSES (Passed Senate 52-0-0)

• Allows for electronic fishing and combo licenses. 

SB 2962 - RIVER OTTER LIMIT (Passed Senate 43-1-0)

• Allows the DNR to manage the River Otter population by allowing the department to set the limit based on research. 

SB 2963 - TRAPPING TAGS (Passed Senate 44-0-0)

• Currently trappers are required to put their name and address on their traps. This bill would allow trappers to use their DNR Customer # instead for privacy reasons.

Be sure to check back often so that you can stay informed from the Legislative Floors to the Great Outdoors! 

Attention Anglers: A Message from the IDNR Division of Fisheries

From the IDNR Division of Fisheries…

Attention Anglers: Mussels May Not Be Used as Bait in Illinois

SPRINGFIELD, IL – Illinois fishing regulations prohibit the use of mussels of any species from any waters of the state as fish bait.

An error regarding use of mussels appears in printed copies of the 2018 Illinois Fishing Information booklet (the online version of the booklet reflects the correct regulation).

Illinois fishing regulations now allow persons with a fishing license to possess up to 50 relic (dead) mussel shells by those who collect shells, or by those collecting relic mussel shells for educational purposes.

To review the 2018 Illinois Fishing Information booklet online, go to the I Fish Illinois website link at https://www.ifishillinois.org/regulations/2018FishingGuide.pdf.

Week of April 9th 2018 - Illinois 100th General Assembly Legislative Wrap-up

Both the House and Senate were busy with committees this week.  Below you will find a breakdown of some of the action taken on outdoor related bills.  Click on each link to read more about each bill.

HOUSE

Agriculture Committee Action on April 9, 2018:

• HB 4231 - Blaze Pink Clothing (Passed 17-0-0)
• Authorizes certain hunters to wear solid blaze pink colored clothing (in addition to blaze orange colored clothing).

• HB 5015 - DNR Volunteer Program Equipment  (Passed 17-0-0)
• Allows Adopt-APark & Adopt-A-Trail volunteers to use his or her own light equipment.

• HB 5293 - Endangered Species (Passed 11-1-2)
• States that 2 members of the Endangered Species Board shall be landowners representing the State's largest general farm organization.

• HB 5317 - Poached Deer Restitution Value  (Passed 17-0-0)
• Increases the restitution that the DNR will receive when someone illegally takes wildlife.  
• For example: 
• Whitetail Deer- increase from $250 to $1000
• Trumpeter Swan - increase from $250 to $1000
• Eagle - increase from $500 to $1000
• Wild Turkey - increase from $250 to $500

• HB 5440 - Youth Hunting (Passed 17-0-0)
• Provides the the fee for resident and non-resident youth archery deer permit shall be the same. 
• For example, out of state family under the age of 18 would be able to hunt for the same cost as a resident youth of the State of Illinois. 

• HB 5692 - River Otter Limit (Passed 17-0-0)
• By deleting the provision that states that the River Otter limit should not exceed five per season, the DNR is able to better manage the population and change the River Otter limit according to the biologists data. 

• HB 5693 - Trapping Tags  (Passed 17-0-0)
• Currently trappers are required to put their name and address on their traps.  This bill would allow trappers to use their DNR Customer # instead for privacy reasons. 

Revenue Committee Action from April 11, 2018:

• HB 4487 - Lottery Game - State Parks  - 
• This bill was moved to subcommittee and was not called for a vote in committee.

Passed the HOUSE

• HB 4783 - Youth Hunt/Trap (Passed 113-0-0)
• Amends the Wildlife Code to provide a universal definition of youth to be "under 18" for consistency when it comes to youth hunting programs.

SENATE

Agriculture Committee Action on April 12, 2018 

• SB 709 - Trapping Snapping Turtles (Failed 4-6-0)
• Adds snapping turtles to the species that one is able to trap. 

• SB 2295 - Electronic Fishing Licenses (Passed 9-0-0)
• Defines "fishing license" and "combination license" as an electronic or physical copy. 

• SB 2493 - Deer Feed (Passed 10-0-0)
• Provides that a person may supplementally feed deer with items otherwise prohibited by the Code when not in active deer hunting season
• This bill is being held on Second Reading so that Senator Rose can file an amendment 

• SB 2962 - River Otter Limit (Passed 8-1-0)
• By deleting the provision that states that the River Otter limit should not exceed five per season, the DNR is able to better manage the population and change the River Otter limit according to the biologists data.

• SB 2963 - Trapping Tags (Passed 9-0-0)
• Currently trappers are required to put their name and address on their traps.  This bill would allow trappers to use their DNR Customer # instead for privacy reasons. 

Both the House and Senate are back next week.  We will likely see some action on the floor regarding these bills that passed out of committee.  Be sure to check back often so that you can stay informed from the Legislative Floors to the Great Outdoors! 

2018 Illinois Youth Spring Turkey Season Recap Shows Decline

Not much else to say, the IDNR Division of Wildlife Resources sums it up! 

A brief summary of the 2018 Illinois Youth Spring Turkey Season from the IDNR Division of Wildlife Resources:

Youth turkey hunters harvested a preliminary total of 1,156 birds during the 2018 Illinois Youth Turkey Season. In 2017, a total of 1,531 turkeys were taken, marking a record harvest. Weather undoubtedly was a factor in this year’s decline in harvest as youth hunters experienced unseasonably cold temperatures throughout the four-day season.