Illinois Hunting Seasons & Prices
2026 big-game season dates and license/tag prices.
Illinois offers 2026 hunting seasons for whitetail across archery, firearm, and muzzleloader methods. Seasons run from October 1, 2026 through January 17, 2027. A hunting license (base) costs $12.50 for residents and $57.75 for nonresidents.
Planning reference only — always confirm dates and prices with the state wildlife agency before applying, buying a license, or hunting.
Season dates
License & tag prices
| License | Resident | Nonresident | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hunting License (base) | $12.50 | $57.75 | |
| Resident Archery Deer Permit (combo) | $25 | — | |
| Nonresident Firearm Deer Permit | — | $300.50 | |
| Nonresident Archery Deer Permit | — | $410 |
A base hunting license plus a season/method-specific deer permit is required; many firearm permits are issued by lottery.
Source: Illinois DNR hunting license & deer permit fees (dnr.illinois.gov)
Illinois hunt units
Explore harvest history, success rates, and draw odds by unit.
Adams TurkeyAlexander TurkeyBond TurkeyBoone TurkeyBrown TurkeyBureau TurkeyCalhoun TurkeyCarroll TurkeyCass TurkeyChampaign TurkeyChristian TurkeyClark Turkey
Browse all Illinois harvest data →Illinois hunting FAQ
- When does whitetail season open in Illinois in 2026?
- Illinois's 2026 whitetail archery season opens October 1 and runs through January 17. Always confirm exact dates with the state wildlife agency before hunting.
- What big-game species can you hunt in Illinois?
- In 2026, Illinois has hunting seasons for whitetail.
- How much is a Illinois hunting license for nonresidents?
- A hunting license (base) in Illinois is $57.75 for nonresidents and $12.50 for residents.