Newbie Looking For Tips/Guidance
Contributors to this thread:Illinois
From: MrFrost
30-Oct-19
Have decided I don't have enough hobbies yet, lol, so I want to get into hunting because it is something my Dad loved to do, but I never really got into while he was alive. After losing him this year and hearing my Uncles and his friends talk about him hunting and how much he enjoyed it a few weekends ago when we spread some of his ashes at his favorite place to hunt, I realized I would actually like to sort of follow in his steps. But his favorite spot is six hours south of me near Harrisburg IL, and I am looking for more local areas to hunt.
Where does everyone near Elgin like to hunt? I'm not new to shooting my bow, so I'd definitely prefer archery over gun/muzzleloader. I see that White Pines allows it as well as Chain O'Lakes State Park. Anywhere near hear have pre set stands/blinds?
Just trying to get a clue as to what I'm doing and will need to prepare for next year. Thanks.
From: jstephens61
30-Oct-19
Welcome and sorry for your lose. Might find a local archery shop and hang out a little bit. 3D shoots are also a good place to meet likeminded people.
From: MrFrost
31-Oct-19
Thank you!!!
From: Acts
31-Oct-19
Not sure about pre set blinds, but check the DNR site they have a list of open public lands. Make sure you read through the hunter fact sheets. I mainly use my hangon with climbing sticks, not sure if that's an option for you.
From: DozRdeer2
01-Nov-19
Acts provided good advice. Here is the link to the Hunt/Trap Digest in which you will find all sites open to hunting: https://www.dnr.illinois.gov/hunting/Pages/HuntTrapDigest.aspx Hunter fact sheets can be found here: https://www.dnr.illinois.gov/hunting/FactSheets/Pages/default.aspx Good luck!
From: MrFrost
04-Nov-19
Thank you guys, this is perfect!
From: Dusktildawn
04-Nov-19
Only blinds I've seen are for handicapped hunters. I use a climber or ground blind on public lands. You can get a blind for pretty cheap and it let's you stay very mobile if you do not want to climb trees. Good luck
From: LBshooter
04-Nov-19
Some places allow preset blinds , but they don't stay long.