What are the top deer hunting counties in Illinois?

Written by HLRBO - Matt Simon| 4/15/2023

Deer hunting is a popular activity in Illinois, and the state is known for its abundant deer population. With over 700,000 deer in the state, Illinois offers hunters some of the best opportunities to bag a trophy buck. However, not all counties are created equal when it comes to deer hunting. In this article, we will take a look at some of the top deer hunting counties in Illinois.

Pike County 

Pike County is widely regarded as the top deer hunting county in Illinois. The county is located in western Illinois, and it has a reputation for producing some of the biggest bucks in the state. Pike County's deer population is managed through a strict quota system, which ensures that the deer population remains healthy and sustainable. The county also offers a variety of hunting opportunities, including archery, muzzleloader, and firearm hunting.

Adams County 

Adams County is another great deer hunting county in Illinois. The county is located in western Illinois, and it is known for its large deer population and trophy bucks. Adams County has a strong hunting tradition, and it offers a variety of hunting opportunities, including archery, muzzleloader, and firearm hunting. The county's deer population is managed through a combination of habitat management and hunting regulations, which helps to maintain a healthy and sustainable deer population. 

Fulton County 

Fulton County is located in central Illinois, and it is home to some of the state's best deer hunting. The county's deer population is managed through a combination of habitat management, hunting regulations, and a strict quota system. Fulton County offers a variety of hunting opportunities, including archery, muzzleloader, and firearm hunting. The county is also known for its scenic beauty, with rolling hills, wooded areas, and open fields. 

Jo Daviess County 

Jo Daviess County is located in northwestern Illinois, and it is known for its abundant deer population and trophy bucks. The county's deer population is managed through a combination of habitat management and hunting regulations, which helps to maintain a healthy and sustainable deer population. Jo Daviess County offers a variety of hunting opportunities, including archery, muzzleloader, and firearm hunting. The county is also home to some of the state's most scenic areas, with beautiful forests, rolling hills, and winding rivers.

Jefferson County 

Jefferson County is located in southern Illinois, and it is another top deer hunting county in the state. The county's deer population is managed through a combination of habitat management and hunting regulations, which helps to maintain a healthy and sustainable deer population. Jefferson County offers a variety of hunting opportunities, including archery, muzzleloader, and firearm hunting. The county is also home to some of the state's most beautiful parks and wildlife areas. 

In conclusion, Illinois is a great destination for deer hunters, with some of the best hunting opportunities in the country. While there are many great hunting counties in the state, Pike, Adams, Fulton, Jo Daviess, and Jefferson counties stand out as some of the top deer hunting counties in Illinois. With their abundant deer populations, trophy bucks, and variety of hunting opportunities, these counties offer a great hunting experience for both novice and experienced hunters alike.

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