Illinois

Famous Midwest trophy whitetail destination, monster bucks, prime archery, and rich agricultural habitat.

Illinois Regulatory Agency

Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR)

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) manages state parks, fish, wildlife, and natural resources across Illinois's fertile agricultural land and river corridors.

Illinois is renowned worldwide as a premier trophy whitetail deer destination, producing massive record-book bucks alongside excellent waterfowl and upland bird hunting.

policyMission

To manage, conserve, and protect Illinois's natural, cultural, and outdoor resources, and to promote outdoor recreation.

assignmentResponsibilities

  • Issues firearm deer permits, lottery permits, and archery deer/turkey tags
  • Manages state fish & wildlife areas and public hunting sites
  • Establishes annual deer, turkey, waterfowl, and small game hunting seasons
  • Executes wildlife habitat enhancement and chronic wasting disease monitoring
  • Enforces state conservation laws and boating safety regulations

starCore Values

  • Resource Protection: Sustaining world-class whitetail deer and wildlife habitat.
  • Public Recreation: Fostering accessible, safe hunting opportunities.
  • Integrity: Serving the public with professional conservation management.