Illinois deer season 2026: the opener and free maps
When the firearm season opens
First firearm season: Friday, November 20 to Sunday, November 22, 2026
Second firearm season Dec. 3 to 6.
Source: Illinois DNR
Checked on the agency's site November 6, 2026. Archery, muzzleloader, youth and antlerless seasons, bag limits and unit rules differ: the regulations are what count, so read them before you go.
Legal shooting hours for big game in Illinois, generally: 30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes after sunset. Some public lands and opening days differ.
Opening morning you'll likely be walking in before light and may have no signal. Download the maps for your spot ahead of time and Cartahaven shows your GPS position on them offline, so you can find your stand and the property line in the dark.
Free public land maps in Illinois
Before you go
Cartahaven is not affiliated with or endorsed by Illinois DNR. Season dates come from the agency's page linked above.