Crossbow in IL?

[bubbinator]

I have an opportunity to bow hunt in IL in Nov.  While I have a Browning Compound (not shot in years), due to age and disabilities, I'd be better served with a crossbow.  Need to know source of regs, plus solicit experience suggestions.  In AL,I  hunt with rifles,shotguns, handguns, for deer,hogs' small game, varmintsand feral pests on my small farm(coming up on 20 possums messing w/ my free range chickens & guineas in last 4 months).  Thanks in advance. 

[Matt3357]

Check the IL DNR website.  IL only allows people with disabilities to use a crossbow.  I am not sure the process for getting a crossbow permit, but the digest should supply the info you need.  If not, give them a call.  I hear they are very nice and helpful.  Good luck.

Matt

[Casull]

Starting last year, Illinois began allowing those 62 and over to hunt with crossbows during the archery season (in addition to those with a doctor's statement that the individual cannot draw a bow). 

[GRIMJIM]

Here's a link to the dnr website

http://www.dnr.illinois.gov/Pages/default.aspx

And the regs

http://www.dnr.illinois.gov/PDF/DeerInfoSheet.pdf

[swiftman]

Lets see: Non resident Archery permit Combination either sex and antlerless : $ 411.00
                                          Non resident hunting license                5 day  $35.75
                                                                                           regular     $75.75
                                                                          State Habitat Stamp    $5.50
If you are 62 or older you can use a crossbow as long as you carry a photo ID like a drivers license. If you are disabled and can't  draw a bow you can get a exeption if you jump through all the hoops they put in your way.

[bubbinator]

I am 62, + 60% DAV VietNam Vet. So I'm looking at about $480. (rounded off) in licence fees for a 5 day hunt, right?  Seems fair for the reward if I'm successful.  Add that to a new Crossbow+ accessories We're getting close $1K, still seems like a bargain. Thanks for the info.

[JBlk]

Before you jump into buying all of your permits, remember you must have a place to hunt.The outfitters in Ill get a premium for a five day hunt, and they have most of the outstanding land under their control.Private land will be difficult to get on unless you have relatives that can get you in somewhere.The DNR puts you through alot of hoops to be legal and we also have the FOID card.I don't know how that requirement will affect you.You better make a call to the Illinois State Police to get those requirements.Sure we have some big whitetails here, but so do alot of other states that don't have all of the requirements.Kansas and Missouri both have good herds, but its your nickle.Best of luck and I hope that it all works out for you.

[Casull]

JB, nonresidents don't need a FOID card.  Neither do bowhunters (only applies to firearms and residents).

[GRIMJIM]

Pike county is one of the best in the state. And yes it is almost all taken up by outfitters.

[bubbinator]

To JBlk- I'm the guest of a fellow LEO who has access to the area somehow (has had for yrs. free) I'm not asking questions, just practicing w/ my bow, waiting for the call to load up in the truck! Appreciate the post, and all the others too.  If I do good I'll post the pics, if not, we can close this topic quietly.