Illinois sees increase in deer harvest

Posted on December 11, 2014

The deer archery season in Illinois runs through Jan. 18. (Photo courtesy Base Camp Baker/flickr)

By Dave Dahl/Illinois Radio Network

SPRINGFIELD – The number of deer killed in the 2014 firearm season met the expectations of the Illinois Department of Natural Resources.

The seven-day total – on the weekends on either side of Thanksgiving – is 76,547, up 2,229 from 2013.

It's a far cry from the annual flirtation with six figures a few years ago.

"The firearm deer harvest had been in that range," said DNR spokesman Tim Schweizer. "The firearm deer harvest has been less than that in recent years. In 2007 the department began an effort to reduce the deer herd in the state (by) issuing more permits – particularly doe permits – (and by) adding seasons."

More hunting opportunities remain. Archery season continues through Jan. 18, and muzzleloader season is this weekend: Friday through Sunday.

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