Illinois has had four waterfowl hunting zones since 2011, but hunters have shown increasing support for alternative options.
Illinois wildlife managers plan to eliminate the fourth waterfowl hunting zone starting next year and return to a three-zone format. A split season and rearrangement of duck season dates are also being considered.
The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (DNR) credits duck hunters for sharing their opinions, which led to the proposed changes to the 2026-2030 season framework. However, some hunters have expressed concern over the changes, causing the agency to reconsider.
Response from at least one segment of hunters to the changes appears to have the agency backpedaling a bit.
Author's summary: Illinois waterfowl seasons and zone lines are being reset.