Illinois Youth Hunters Set New Harvest Record During Three-Day Season
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) reports a historic high in deer harvested by youth hunters during the recent three-day youth firearm deer season held October 11-13.
Youth hunters, defined as those under 18 years old hunting under licensed adult supervision, collectively harvested a total of 4,714 deer statewide, surpassing last year’s total of 4,097 by over 600 animals.
Harvest Numbers by County
The IDNR provided preliminary harvest data for the 2025 youth season, comparing results with 2024 and 2023. Some notable county totals for 2025 include:
- Adams: 155 deer
- Alexander: 178 deer
- Boone: 76 deer
- Clay: 92 deer
- Jackson: 94 deer
- St. Clair: 69 deer
- Williamson: 57 deer
- Winnebago: 13 deer
This dataset reflects sustained or increasing participation in youth hunting across a broad range of ecological zones in Illinois.
Wildlife Expertise: Context and Biological Considerations
The increase in youth harvest aligns with ongoing deer population management efforts in Illinois. White-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) populations fluctuate based on habitat conditions, predator presence, and harvest pressure. A regulated youth season is integral to managing herd size and health while encouraging responsible hunting among new generations.
Deer undergo seasonal physiological changes, including the fall rut during October and November, which affects their movement patterns and vulnerability. The timing of the youth season in early October often targets deer prior to peak breeding activity, which helps maintain population balance without overly disrupting rut behavior.
Remaining Opportunities for Youth Hunters
Youth hunters with unfilled permits from the 2025 youth season may still use their permits in the main firearm deer seasons, November 21-23 and December 4-7. This marks the first year that unfilled permits remain valid across both firearm season segments, increasing flexibility for young hunters and potentially further contributing to population management.
Conclusion
The record-setting harvest by Illinois youth marks both a milestone in youth engagement and a continued strategic approach to deer management. Wildlife biologists emphasize that such regulated hunting opportunities promote sustainable deer populations, supporting ecological balance and local ecosystems.
Additional reporting and sources from: IL youth hunters set new record for harvested deer after three-day season
