Illinois Deer Numbers are in for First 4 Days

Illinois Deer Numbers are in for First 4 Days

UPDATE - Daily update from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources -  http://www.dnr.illinois.gov/hunting/Pages/IDNRHarvestQuery.aspx

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With a strong North wind for the opening weekend of deer season, a lot of hunters are asking - How did everyone do?  Paul Shelton Manager of the Forest Wildlife Program has released the first archery deer harvest update.  This report covers October 1, 2015 through October 4, 2015.

Illinois archery deer hunters harvested a preliminary total of 5,140 deer, compared to 3,106 for the same period in 2014. Conditions were generally favorable, although somewhat windy.

Harvest consisted of 71% does and 29% males (3,630; 1,510). Top five counties were Pike (163), Fulton (142), Jefferson (128), Randolph (116), and Adams (110). A table of county results is attached.

Up-to-date archery harvest figures (for either deer or turkey) by county/state sites can be tracked on the web at http://www.dnr.illinois.gov/hunting/Pages/IDNRHarvestQuery.aspx

State and Federal Money Possibly being cut from Natural Resource Programs

State and Federal Money Possibly being cut from Natural Resource Programs

While budget talks continue in Springfield, you might not be aware of other whispers happening in Washington D.C. October 1st starts the fiscal year for the federal government. While congress prolonged funding of the federal government, they didn't fund the Land Water and Conservation Fund (LWCF).

A Quick Reminder for all Illinois Deer Hunters

A Quick Reminder for all Illinois Deer Hunters

Tomorrow thousands of hunters will be taking the field in hopes of harvesting an Illinois deer.  It's easy to let excitement overcome you.  By now though, all preparation is done and now all you're waiting on is that alarm clock to start buzzing.  Whether you're a novice or even a seasoned bow hunter remember these three things.

New Registration Location for Boating and Fishing at Emiquon

New Registration Location for Boating and Fishing at Emiquon.

In the past The Nature Conservancy's Emiquon has asked boaters and anglers to register at Dickson Mounds.  This state museum location will be closing due to lack of funds starting September 30, 2015.  With this closure, the Nature Conservancy has asked me to share their press release.   If you fish or boat out at Emiquon make sure to read this press release.  Emiquon is a diamond in the rough,  respect the rules so we all can continue to enjoy this magnificent wetland.  Read more about the rules and regulations for fishing and boating.