Javelina hunting season is here, and if you’re lucky enough to live in Illinois, you have the opportunity to go after these tough little pigs. Javelinas are not your typical wild game, and they can provide a unique challenge for hunters of all levels of experience. In this blog post, we will explore everything you need to know about javelina hunting in Illinois. From the gear you need to the best times of day to hunt, we’ve got you covered. So read on and get ready for a successful javelina hunting season!
Javelina Hunting Laws in Illinois
In Illinois, javelina may be hunted with firearms during the established deer hunting seasons. In addition, javelina may be hunted with archery equipment during the Archery Only season and the Special CWD season. A valid Illinois deer hunting license is required to hunt javelina.
The use of dogs is prohibited when hunting javelina. Baiting is also prohibited. Javelina may only be taken with firearms that are 20 gauge or larger and air guns that are .177 caliber or larger. Slugs and shotgun shells that contain lead shots are prohibited.
When hunting javelina, hunters must comply with all other deer hunting laws, including wearing fluorescent orange clothing and obeying posted signs. For more information on javelina hunting laws in Illinois, visit the Illinois Department of Natural Resources website.
Related: Alligator Hunting in Illinois
Do you need a license to hunt Javelina in Illinois?
In order to hunt javelina in Illinois, you must have a valid hunting license. You can purchase a hunting license online or at any authorized licensing agency. A hunting license is valid for one year from the date of purchase.
Javelina Hunting Seasons in Illinois
There are two javelina hunting seasons in Illinois: the early season and the late season. The early season runs from mid-September to mid-October, and the late season runs from mid-December to mid-January.
Hunters must have a valid hunting license and a Javelina Hunting Permit to hunt javelina in Illinois. The permit costs $5 for residents and $15 for non-residents and can be purchased at any Illinois Department of Natural Resources office or online at www.dnr.illinois.gov.
Javelina may be hunted with any caliber of rifle or shotgun, but all hunters must use non-lead ammunition when hunting javelina in Illinois. For more information on javelina hunting seasons and regulations in Illinois, visit www.dnr.illinois.gov/hunting.
Can you hunt Javelina at night in Illinois?
There are no laws in Illinois that specifically prohibit hunting javelina at night. However, there are general rules that apply to all hunting activities that must be followed, such as obtaining the necessary permits and obeying all local ordinances. In addition, because javelina is generally active during the day, hunters may have more success if they focus their efforts during daylight hours.
Bag limits for hunting Javelina in Illinois
There is no bag limit for hunting javelina in Illinois.
Legal ways to hunt Javelina in Illinois
There are a few ways to legally hunt javelina in Illinois. The first is with a shotgun that is 20 gauge or larger and has non-toxic shot. The second way is to use a bow, and the third way is to use a crossbow. All of these methods are restricted to certain areas, so make sure to check the regulations before hunting.
Javelinas can be found in many parts of Illinois, but they are most common in the southern part of the state. They are also sometimes seen in the western part of the state near the Mississippi River. Javelinas usually travel in small groups, so if you see one, there is likely to be more nearby.
When hunting javelina, it is important to be aware of their sharp tusks. These tusks can cause serious injury, so always approach them with caution. Javelinas are also known to be aggressive when cornered, so make sure you have a clear escape route if necessary.
Can you use dogs to hunt Javelina in Illinois?
Yes, you can use dogs to hunt Javelina in Illinois. There are many different types of dogs that can be used for hunting Javelina, and each has its own set of pros and cons. Some people prefer to use hound dogs, as they are specifically bred for hunting and have a strong sense of smell. Other popular choices include Labrador Retrievers, German Shorthaired Pointers, and Beagles. Each type of dog has its own unique abilities that can be useful when hunting Javelina. For example, hound dogs are excellent at tracking down games, while Labrador Retrievers are known for their intelligence and trainability. Ultimately, the best type of dog to use for hunting Javelina in Illinois is the one that best suits your individual hunting style and needs.
Can you hunt Javelina from a vehicle in Illinois?
In Illinois, it is legal to hunt javelina from a vehicle as long as the vehicle is not moving. The best way to hunt javelina from a vehicle is to find a spot where they are feeding and wait for them to come to you. Javelina is most active at dawn and dusk, so it is best to start hunting early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
If you see javelina while you are driving, do not stop immediately. Instead, slowly drive past the animal and then stop a short distance away. Javelina have very poor eyesight, so they will not be able to see you if you are sitting still in your vehicle. Once you have stopped, get out of your vehicle quietly and approach the animal slowly and carefully.
Javelina is easily spooked, so it is important to move slowly and be as quiet as possible when hunting them. If you make too much noise or move too quickly, the javelina will likely run away before you have a chance to shoot it.
Final Thoughts
As a javelina hunter, I’ve had my share of successes and failures. I’ve pursued these wily animals in some of the most remote and rugged areas of the country, but I’ve also hunted them in my own backyard. No matter where you hunt them, javelinas are a challenging quarry.
There are a few things that I’ve learned over the years that have helped me become a more successful javelina hunter. First and foremost, it’s important to have a good understanding of their behavior and habitat preferences. Javelinas are notoriously shy and elusive, so knowing where to find them is half the battle.
Secondly, it’s important to be patient when hunting javelinas. They’re not going to come running into your lap, so you need to be prepared for long periods of waiting and watching. And finally, when you do get an opportunity for a shot, make sure you’re prepared to take it. Javelinas can be tough customers, so you need to make every shot count.
If you keep these things in mind, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a successful javelina hunter.
