Dove hunting is a popular sport in Illinois, with many hunters taking to the fields each year in search of these elusive birds. While dove hunting can be challenging, it can also be very rewarding, and many hunters enjoy the challenge of pursuing these birds. If you’re thinking about dove hunting in Illinois, there are a few things you should know before you head out. In this blog post, we’ll cover everything from the best times to hunt to the regulations you need to know. We’ll also give you some tips on how to make the most of your hunt.
Dove Hunting Laws in Illinois
The laws governing dove hunting in Illinois are set forth in the Illinois Dove Hunting Act. The Act provides for the taking of doves by shotgun only and requires a valid Illinois hunting license. The daily bag limit is 15, with a possession limit of 45. The season dates are September 1-15 and December 15-January 15.
Dove hunting is permitted on all public lands managed by the Department of Natural Resources, including state parks, state fish and wildlife areas, and state forests. In addition, many private landowners open their property to dove hunters each year. A current list of public and private land open to dove hunting can be found on the Department’s website.
To hunt doves on any land other than your own, you must have written permission from the landowner or lessee. This written permission must be in your possession while you are hunting, and must specify the period of time during which you are allowed to hunt. The development of good relationships with landowners is essential to continuing our tradition of successful dove hunting in Illinois.
Related: Deer Hunting in Illinois
Do you need a license to hunt Dove in Illinois?
You do not need a license to hunt Dove in Illinois.
Dove Hunting Seasons in Illinois
The Illinois Dove Hunting Seasons typically run from the beginning of September through the end of October. There are a few different types of dove that can be found in Illinois, including the mourning dove, white-winged dove, and Eurasian collared dove.
Mourning doves are the most common type of dove found in Illinois, and they can be hunted during the entire season. White-winged doves are slightly less common, but they can also be hunted during the entire season. Eurasian collared doves are the least common type of dove found in Illinois, but they can only be hunted during the first two weeks of the season.
During the first two weeks of the season, hunters are allowed to take up to 15 doves per day. During the rest of the season, hunters are allowed to take up to 10 doves per day. All hunters must have a valid hunting license and a Harvest Information Program number before they go out hunting.
Can you hunt Dove at night in Illinois?
In Illinois, you can only hunt doves during the day. The exception to this rule is if you are hunting on public property that is within 25 miles of the Mississippi River, in which case you can hunt until 1/2 hour after sunset.
Bag limits for hunting Dove in Illinois
The daily bag limit for Dove in Illinois is 15. The possession limit is 45.
Legal ways to hunt Dove in Illinois
There are many ways to legally hunt Dove in Illinois. The most common way is to use a shotgun with shells that contain lead shot. It is also legal to use a shotgun with non-toxic shots, such as a steel shot. Another way to legally hunt Dove in Illinois is to use a bow and arrow. The final way to legally hunt Dove in Illinois is to use an air rifle or pellet gun. All of these methods are legal and can be used to successfully hunt Dove in Illinois.
Can you use dogs to hunt Dove in Illinois?
Yes, dogs can be used to hunt Dove in Illinois. There are a few things to keep in mind when using dogs for Dove hunting, such as training them to not chase after the birds and to be calm while waiting for the hunters to shoot. Dogs can be a great asset on a Dove hunt, but they need to be well-trained in order to be effective.
Can you hunt Dove from a vehicle in Illinois?
In Illinois, you can only hunt doves from a vehicle if you have a physical disability that prevents you from walking. For all other hunters, hunting doves from a vehicle are not allowed.
Final Thoughts
Pheasant hunting is a popular sport in many parts of the United States, and Illinois is no exception. Dove hunting season in Illinois runs from September 1st through December 15th each year, and during that time, hunters can take up to 15 doves per day.
There are a few things to keep in mind when dove hunting in Illinois. First, all hunters must have a valid hunting license and must be properly registered with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. Second, hunters are only allowed to hunt on private property with the permission of the landowner.
Third, it is important to be aware of the bag limit for doves in Illinois, which is 15 birds per day. Finally, remember to check the local regulations for any additional restrictions that may be in place before heading out on your hunt.
With these things in mind, Dove hunting can be a great way to spend some time outdoors during the fall season. So get out there and enjoy the Illinois Dove Hunting Season!
