Which Illinois counties have the highest whitetail harvest rates?

Habitat and Deer Density

Fulton, McDonough, and Schuyler counties in Illinois have a mix of agricultural land, timber, and wetlands that provides an ideal habitat for white-tailed deer. The combination of abundant food sources, cover, and water creates a perfect environment for deer to thrive and reproduce. This leads to higher deer densities, which in turn contribute to higher harvest rates. According to the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, Fulton County has a deer density of 37.6 deer per square mile, while McDonough and Schuyler counties have densities of 33.5 and 32.9 deer per square mile, respectively.

Hunting Strategies and Techniques

To successfully hunt in these high-harvest counties, hunters should employ effective strategies and techniques. One approach is to focus on areas with high deer activity, such as agricultural fields with corn or soybeans, and areas with abundant cover, like wooded creek bottoms or hedgerows. Hunters can also use bait sites and feeders to attract deer, but it’s essential to follow all regulations and guidelines. Additionally, using trail cameras can help hunters identify deer movement patterns and preferred routes, allowing them to set up effective hunting positions. In Fulton County, for example, hunters have reported success with stand hunting in cornfields or along wooded creek bottoms during the early season.

Historical Harvest Data and Trends

Historical harvest data from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources shows that Fulton, McDonough, and Schuyler counties have consistently had high harvest rates over the past decade. In 2019, Fulton County had a harvest rate of 13.3% compared to the state average of 9.5%. McDonough and Schuyler counties had harvest rates of 12.2% and 11.9%, respectively. These data suggest that these counties will continue to be prime hunting locations for whitetail deer in Illinois.