Illinois hunters are celebrating a new milestone this turkey season, with a record 18,189 wild turkeys harvested across the state. That number surpasses last year’s tally by nearly a thousand birds. The top five counties—Jo Daviess, Jefferson, Pike, Marion, and Pope—all contributed significantly to the new record. State officials note that both permit sales and youth participation saw noticeable increases, suggesting the sport is gaining popularity. Wildlife managers highlight that healthy turkey populations and favorable weather played a role in the success. This achievement is being welcomed by hunters and conservation groups alike, who see it as a sign of robust wildlife management. Find the list by county here.
