IDNR mentored deer hunting returns to Fox Ridge State Park

SPRINGFIELD - The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) will again host a mentored archery deer hunting opportunity for adults and youth at Fox Ridge State Park in Coles County Dec. 15 through Jan. 4.

Participating hunters will be provided access to sections of the site otherwise closed to archery deer hunting. Adult and youth hunters with less than three years of deer hunting experience and who have not been successfully drawn in the mentored deer hunt program previously may apply. Hunters may apply for concurrent mentored hunts but may only participate in one if selected for both.

Hunters drawn in the lottery will be assigned a hunting location and allowed to hunt Tuesday through Sunday within an assigned week. IDNR will determine hunt locations, which will be filled equally with adult and youth hunters

Hunters will be limited to taking one deer and must be accompanied by a non-hunting adult mentor who can assist and advise them during the hunt. All accompanying mentors must be 21 years of age or older and must have a current Illinois hunting license. Hunters must provide their own mentor and hunting equipment. Ground blinds will be provided. An apprentice hunting license is valid for this opportunity for those eligible.

About IDNR

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources is celebrating 100 years of conservation and service to the people of Illinois throughout 2025. The department was established July 1, 1925, as the Illinois Department of Conservation, bringing under one umbrella oversight of fish and game, forestry, public works, and lakes.