Illinois Sets 2025 Waterfowl Blind Drawing Schedule, Includes Northern Sites in July and August

SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Department of Natural Resources has announced dates for 2025 waterfowl blind drawings at public hunting areas statewide, with in-person registration required. Drawings begin Sunday, July 20, and continue through Saturday, Aug. 2. Northern Illinois hunters can register on Saturday, July 26, for Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area in DeKalb County and on Sunday, July 27, for Starved Rock State Park in LaSalle County, with Starved Rock registration held at Buffalo Rock. Other northern sites include Chain O’ Lakes, Mazonia, Sinnissippi Lake, and Des Plaines. Hunters must bring a valid hunting license, Illinois Migratory Waterfowl Stamp, and photo ID, and meet eligibility requirements. Blinds will be allocated for one or two years, depending on the site. Full site details and maps are available at dnr.illinois.gov.