Illinois’ youth deer hunt set for Oct. 12-14

SPRINGFIELD — Illinois’ youth will have three days in October to deer hunt with firearms.

Illinois Department of Natural Resources officials said Thursday the hunt will be held Oct. 12-14 for youths who haven’t reached their 16th birthday by the first day of the hunt.

Participants must have completed a DNR-approved hunter education course. They also must have a youth deer permit, a hunting license or apprentice hunting license and be supervised by a non-hunting adult.

The supervisor must have a valid hunting license or Firearm Owners Identification Card, wear blaze-orange garments and may accompany just one youth at any given time.

Gov. Pat Quinn recently signed legislation extending the youth firearm deer hunt to three days from two, providing an additional day during the Columbus Day weekend.