Illinois deer harvest drops sharply in 2025 firearm season opener
Illinois has seen a drop in deer hunting numbers during the fall season's 2025 firearm season. Hunters harvested 51,409 deer in the first weekend, down from 54,661 the previous year. Meanwhile, the state ranks as the fifth unhealthiest in the U.S., according to recent health insurance data.
The Illinois Department of Natural Resources reported the decline in deer harvests for the opening weekend of the firearm season. Officials also reminded hunters that using drones to track or recover wildlife remains illegal under state law.
The deer harvest figures mark a noticeable decrease from last year's totals. The upcoming IHSA vote will determine whether key changes to school sports take effect. Health insurance data, meanwhile, highlights ongoing challenges for Illinois residents.
