New season for hunting licenses starts April 1

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) - Illinois officials are reminding hunters and other outdoor enthusiasts to renew their state licenses.

The new license year begins April 1 for hunting, fishing and other outdoor recreation.

Officials say a combination one for fishing, hunting and sportsman is being offered for 2015 through the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. Licenses are available from IDNR's license and permit vendors, online through the department website or by calling 888-673-7648.

The 2015 licenses are valid through March 31, 2016, unless otherwise indicated.

IDNR officials also will start daily drawings for the 2015 spring wild turkey hunting permits on March 9. Applications are available to residents of Illinois and hunters living outside the state. They also can be found on the IDNR's website.

The spring trout season for Illinois opens April 4.

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Online: http://www.dnr.illinois.gov