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Public Duck and Goose Hunting Area Permit Information

Public Duck/Goose Hunting Online Application Periods:

First Lottery: August 16 – 31

  • Residents Only

Second Lottery: September 1 – 15

  • Unsuccessful residents from the first lottery and non-residents

Third Lottery: September 16 – 28

  • Any and all applicants can apply for 1st or 2nd permits

First-come, first-served permits

Hunters can acquire additional permits on a first-come, first-served basis beginning at 8:00 a.m. on October 1st. Permits will remain available until reserved permit quotas are depleted or until 72 hours prior to the hunt date.

  • 3 more permits (for those who have already received 2 permits), or
  • 4 more permits (for those who have already received 1 permit), or
  • 5 permits (for those who have not received any permits)

Public Duck/Goose Hunting Online Application and Information:

Youth Waterfowl Hunting (Duck/Goose) Application

Applications will be accepted September 1 through October 1. You must use an official 2025 Illinois Youth Waterfowl Hunting Application. Only one application per envelope will be accepted. No fee is charged for this permit. If more than one application is submitted by an individual, all applications from that individual will be rejected and permits revoked. Permits are not transferable. Prior years hunters are eligible to apply, however first-time applicants will be given preference. Applicants must be between the ages of 10 and 17 at the time of the hunt. Arrangements for transportation, lodging, and ammunition must be provided by the parent or guardian. Each Illinois youth permit holder is required to be accompanied by a parent, guardian, or responsible adult, who may or may not hunt, depending on the location.

Please refer to the application for youth waterfowl hunt areas and dates as well as other important information.