Things You'll Need:
- Illinois hunting permit (specific to firearms or archery weapons)
- Hunting weapons and accessories
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Step 1
Learn how to fire a hunting rifle correctly, in the safety of a firing range with a qualified teacher, before you head out to hunt. It is also extremely useful to learn survival skills and how to dress your prey properly if you want to hunt for meat.
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Step 2
Apply online using the Illinois Department of Natural Resources' hunting regulations, licenses, permits and applications web services (see Resources below). Everything you'll need, whether you're a resident of Illinois or a visitor looking to go on a hunting excursion, is available through this department, from information on hunting seasons to every necessary application form.
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Step 3
Remember that youths require separate registration and are subject to additional hunting restrictions and conditions. For example, they are required to hunt in the presence of an adult or legal guardian. Youths may also be required to present proof of successful completion of an accredited hunting training program.
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Step 4
Enter the state of Illinois' lottery system to be eligible for a chance to receive specialized permits for controlled hunts of virtually every legal prey the state offers. Check the Illinois Department of Natural Resources' hunting regulations pages regularly for information on lottery entry deadlines.
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Step 5
Learn the specific regulations by clicking on the links for the different hunting categories offered by the state. Choose the deer hunting, turkey hunting, upland/small game or waterfowl/migratory game link from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources' hunting regulations pages to find out everything there is to know.
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Step 6
Hunt only on public property, owned and controlled by the federal or state government's forestry or nature reserve services. If you want to request maps of areas where public hunting is permitted, contact the Illinois Department of Natural Resources.
