Keith Lusher 12.23.25
Illinois hunters killed a preliminary total of 81,225 deer during the seven-day 2025 firearm deer season that concluded Dec. 7, according to the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. The total came in just below last year’s preliminary firearm harvest of 82,496 deer, continuing a relatively stable trend in statewide harvest numbers.
The firearm season was split into two segments, with the majority of deer killed during the opening weekend. Hunters harvested 51,409 deer statewide between Nov. 21 and Nov. 23. The second weekend, held Dec. 4 through Dec. 7, produced a preliminary total of 29,816 deer, an increase of nearly 2,000 compared to the same period in 2024.
While overall harvest numbers dipped slightly year over year, the stronger second weekend helped close the gap and suggested solid late-season hunting activity. Wildlife officials note that cooler weather later in the season often improves deer movement, which can increase hunters’ success in the field.
County-by-county results varied across Illinois. Adams County led the state with a preliminary total of 2,094 deer harvested during the firearm season.
In central Illinois, Peoria County recorded 901 deer, finishing 50 higher than last year.
Woodford County followed with 833 deer, a decrease of 19 from 2024.
Other counties reported modest declines. Fulton County posted a preliminary total of 1,930 deer, down 60 from last season, while McLean County recorded 636, a drop of 34 deer year over year.
Tazewell County hunters harvested 553 deer, finishing 17 below last year’s total.
Although the firearm season has closed, additional deer hunting opportunities remain available. Archery season continues statewide through Jan. 18, 2026, with the exception of brief closures during firearm segments in applicable counties. Late-winter antlerless-only and chronic wasting disease seasons will be held in designated counties Jan. 1 through Jan. 4 and again Jan. 16 through Jan. 18, 2026.
The Illinois Department of Natural Resources is expected to release finalized harvest totals and detailed county breakdowns following full verification of preliminary data.
Keith Lusher is an award-winning outdoor journalist who resides in Covington, Louisiana. He owns and operates NorthshoreFishingReport.com and writes a weekly outdoor column for the Slidell Independent Newspaper. He also writes for the St.Tammany Parish Tourism Commission’s VisitTheNorthshore.com. He is the former host of The Northshore Fishing Report Radio Show and is on the board of the Louisiana Outdoor Writers Association. Keith contributes to numerous publications both online and in print and prides himself on promoting South Louisiana’s unique fishery. To contact Keith email: keithlusherjr@gmail.com
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