Prairie State Wire

Youth between the ages of 10 and 17 are invited to apply for youth wingshooting clinics and pheasant hunts at three Illinois state parks. These events are scheduled for Saturday, November 9, at Iroquois County State Wildlife Area in Iroquois County, Johnson Sauk Trail State Recreation Area in Henry County, and Mackinaw River State Fish and Wildlife Area in Tazewell County.

Participants will attend a morning clinic led by instructors certified by the National Sporting Clays Association and the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. The focus will be on safe shotgun handling and improving wingshooting skills. In the afternoon, a pheasant hunt is planned. To join, young hunters must have completed an approved hunter safety course and possess a valid hunting license.

Permits can be obtained through IDNR's controlled pheasant hunting online reservation system. Applicants should select "Illinois youth pheasant hunts" after clicking "Click here for applications." It is essential to review the Illinois Youth Pheasant Hunt Information and Regulations before applying.

For further details, visit the controlled pheasant hunting website. Additionally, information about the 2024 IDNR wingshooting calendar and registration can be found online.