Springfield, IL (CAPITOL CITY NOW) – The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) has announced that numerous state and federal sites will be open for the 2025 Youth Waterfowl Hunting Seasons, offering young hunters the chance to experience the outdoors and learn waterfowl hunting traditions.
Youth hunters aged 17 and younger may hunt ducks, geese, coots, and mergansers when accompanied by a non-hunting adult. Special youth-only hunts for ages 10–17 will also be held at select locations.
Key Dates and Zones:
North Zone: Oct. 11–12
Central Zone: Oct. 18–19
South Central Zone: Nov. 8–9
Southern Illinois Special Hunt: Dec. 28
Special Youth-Only Hunt Sites include Black Crown Marsh, Clinton Lake, Banner Marsh, Marshall SFWA and Spring Lake.
All youth hunters must have the appropriate hunting license. Those aged 16 and older must also carry a federal duck stamp. Registration with the Harvest Information Program (HIP) is required for all waterfowl hunters.
