Are you looking to hunt with a crossbow? If so, you might be wondering what regulations apply in Illinois. In this article, we will outline the main laws and regulations related to crossbow hunting in Illinois and summarize each. We will also include a list of resources that will help you understand these regulations in more detail. Hopefully, this will help you stay safe while hunting with a crossbow in Illinois.
crossbow hunting regulations in Illinois
- As of 2017, it is legal to use crossbows in Illinois during the archery deer hunting season, usually after the second firearm deer season.
- A valid archery hunting license is required for crossbow hunting.
- For the crossbow specifications, the crossbow must have a draw weight of at least 125 pounds and a maximum of 200 pounds.
- The maximum allowed draw weight is 200 pounds.
- Also, the crossbow must measure 24 inches in length from the stock butt to the back of one of the limbs.
- Using crossbows to hunt migratory birds is, however, prohibited.
- Legal arrows are 14 inches long without the broadhead. The broadheads must have a diameter of 7/8 inches.
- If you are disabled or over 62, You must have a special permit to hunt with a crossbow.
- All hunters are allowed to use crossbows during the firearm deer season, which runs from the Monday following the second firearm deer season until the close of archery deer season.
- Safety is of utmost importance when hunting with any type of bow.
- You can not use the electronic tracking system.
- You can not keep firearms while hunting with crossbows.
The Illinois Department of Natural Resources handles the hunting and trapping regulations and licenses and permits for all wildlife. The DNR can also issue hunting and trapping licenses for bowhunters, who can operate with archery equipment.
Caution:
We prepared the above information as a general guide. Always consult the relevant hunting regulations in your state for specific details on crossbow hunting regulations. However, we tried our best to ensure the accuracy of this information but cannot be held liable for any errors.
If you find any mistakes or omissions in this guide, please let us know so we can correct them as soon as possible.
About The Author:
Lake Streeter, A Gun enthusiast, and loves to hunt in the middle of the wood. Always check the latest hunting gears out in the market and try to share his honest opinion with the audience in Tarheel3Gun.