Raccoon Hunting in Illinois

Raccoon hunting is a popular pastime in Illinois. Many people enjoy the challenge of tracking and hunting these cunning animals. However, there are some important things to know before you go raccoon hunting. In this blog post, we will cover the basics of raccoon hunting in Illinois. We will discuss the best time of year to hunt, what equipment you need, and how to stay safe while doing it.

Raccoon Hunting Laws in Illinois

In Illinois, it is legal to hunt raccoons with a shotgun, air rifle, or bow and arrow. There are no size or bag limits for raccoons. The hunting season for raccoons runs from November 15th to January 31st.

Raccoon hunting is regulated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR). IDs are required for all hunters, and anyone born after January 1st, 1980 must have completed a Hunter Safety Course approved by the IDNR. More information on Hunter Safety Courses can be found on the IDNR website.

The IDNR also regulates bait used for hunting raccoons. Bait may not be placed within 100 yards of any occupied dwelling, public roadway, or public right-of-way. It is also illegal to use artificial lights to hunt raccoons.

Do you need a license to hunt Raccoons in Illinois?

If you want to hunt raccoons in Illinois, you need a valid hunting license. You can get a hunting license from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (DNR). To get a hunting license, you must be at least 16 years old and have completed a hunter safety course. If you are under 18 years old, you must have parental consent to get a hunting license.

Raccoon Hunting Seasons in Illinois

Raccoon hunting seasons in Illinois vary depending on the area of the state that you are in. In general, the season runs from mid-October through late December, with a brief break in November.

There are different rules and regulations for raccoon hunting in different parts of Illinois. For example, in some areas, hunters are only allowed to use dogs to hunt raccoons. In other areas, both dogs and traps can be used.

Before heading out on a raccoon hunt, be sure to check the rules and regulations for the area you will be hunting in. This will help ensure a successful and safe hunt.

Can you hunt Raccoons at night in Illinois?

If you want to hunt raccoons at night in Illinois, you will need to obtain a permit from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. Night hunting is only allowed from sunset to sunrise. You must also use artificial light that is attached to the gun and can be seen from a distance of 150 feet.

Bag limits for hunting Raccoons in Illinois

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources has established a bag limit for hunting raccoons of two per person, per hunting season. Raccoons may be hunted during the following seasons:

-The fall shotgun season for deer: October 1-January 15
-The trapping season: November 15-January 31

Raccoon pelts may be sold only to licensed fur dealers. It is illegal to sell raccoon meat in Illinois.

Legal ways to hunt Raccoons in Illinois

It is legal to hunt raccoons in Illinois from November 15 to January 15 with a valid hunting license. Raccoons may be hunted during daylight hours only. The use of artificial light to take raccoons is not allowed. Baiting is also not permitted when hunting raccoons.

Can you use dogs to hunt Raccoons in Illinois?

In Illinois, it is legal to use dogs to hunt raccoons. There are no specific regulations regarding the use of dogs for this purpose, so long as the hunter is in compliance with all other hunting laws and regulations.

Dogs can be an effective tool for hunting raccoons, as they can help to flush the animals out of hiding and track them down. However, it is important to note that not all dogs are well-suited for this type of hunting. Many breeds of dog have a strong prey drive and will chase after any animal they see, including raccoons. This can make it difficult to control the dog and may result in the animal being killed or injured.

It is also important to consider the safety of both the dog and the hunter when using dogs for raccoon hunting. Raccoons can be aggressive and may attack if they feel threatened. If a dog is not properly trained or supervised, there is a risk that it could be injured or even killed by a raccoon. For these reasons, it is important to consult with a professional before using dogs for raccoon hunting in Illinois.

Can you hunt Raccoons from a vehicle in Illinois?

In Illinois, it is legal to hunt raccoons from a moving vehicle. There are some restrictions, however. You must have a valid hunting license and you can only hunt on private property with the landowner’s permission. In addition, you can only shoot at raccoons that are actively running away from the vehicle – you cannot shoot at them while they are stationary or climbing.

Final Thoughts

Raccoon hunting in Illinois can be a great experience, but there are a few things to keep in mind. First, always check the regulations before heading out, as they can change from year to year. Second, be prepared for some challenging terrain – it’s not all flat farmland out there! Finally, remember to take extra care of your gear, as raccoons can be surprisingly tough on equipment. With a little planning and preparation, though, you can have a great time hunting these wily critters.