The restoration of the wild turkey is one of the greatest success stories in wildlife conservation. Once completely extirpated in Illinois, wild turkeys now occur in robust numbers in every county. To rebuild the state’s population, Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) conducted trap and release efforts beginning in the 1950s, concluding the program in the early 2000s. Today, the Forest Wildlife Program at IDNR manages wild turkeys and their habitat to maintain these healthy populations.
2022 Illinois Spring Turkey Annual Report
2021 Illinois Spring Turkey Annual Report
2020 Illinois Spring Turkey Annual Report
2019 Illinois Spring Turkey Annual Report
2018 Illinois Spring Turkey Annual Report
2017 Illinois Spring Turkey Annual Report
2016 Illinois Spring Turkey Annual Report
2015 Illinois Spring Turkey Annual Report
Turkey Hunting Information
There are three hunting seasons available to wild turkey hunters in Illinois: Spring,
Fall Gun, and Fall Archery. Click here for more information on wild turkey hunting in Illinois.
Description and identification of Wild Turkey (Meleagris gallopavo)
Find interesting facts about wild turkey in Illinois.
Buy a Turkey Pin
ICF Pins - Proceeds go to support IDNR youth programs and events.
Correct a Turkey Application
If you mistakenly put the wrong information, applied twice and/or need
to cancel an application.
Print My First Turkey Certificate
Fill out and print a certificate to always remember your first turkey hunt.
Public Access Turkey Hunting Sites - IRAP
The Illinois Recreational Access Program (IRAP) has leased 15,000 acres for
turkey hunting from private landowners in 39 Illinois counties. Apply today.
Find Your Own Harvest
Find your previous turkey or deer harvest reports.
Hunter Fact Sheets
Find summaries for each state-owned property that describes the types of hunting
that are offered, as well as any special regulations and restrictions that may be in effect.
Illinois Wildlife Action Plan - Forest and Woodland Campaign
Find out how we maintain and enhance the composition of Illinois' existing forested
habitats and to increase distribution of those habitats in identified priority areas and
statewide with many conservation partners.
National Wild Turkey Federation
Learn more about how the NWTF enhances wild turkey
populations, hunting and wildlife habitat.
United Bow Hunters of America
An organization of traditional bowhunters that represent the interests of
Illinois bowhunters while promoting outdoor ethics and values.
