North Egypt News

State Representative Dave Severin shared information for hunters in a November 20 Facebook post, stating, "During Firearm Season, hunters can use shotguns, muzzleloaders, handguns, and centerfire rifles."

"Deer hunters in Illinois will be busy this weekend, as firearm hunting season begins this Friday and continues through Sunday, November 24," said Severin, according to Facebook. "A second round of firearm deer hunting will be coming in two weeks, from December 5 through 8. During Firearm Season, hunters can use shotguns, muzzleloaders, handguns, and centerfire rifles. Vertical, traditional, and crossbows can also be used, but only on private property."

In his post, Severin provided a link to a news release from The Caucus Blog announcing the start of firearm deer season. The release contains details about the start and end dates of both rounds of firearm deer season and clothing requirements. Hunters are required to wear blaze orange or blaze pink clothing. Blaze pink was added in 2018 after Representative Tony McCombie co-sponsored legislation allowing solid pink gear.

Screenshot of State Representative Dave Severin's Nov. 20 Facebook post | State Representative Dave Severin's Facebook page

According to the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR), hunters in counties where chronic wasting disease has been found must report their hunt by 10 p.m. on the day they harvest a deer by calling 866-452-4325 or online through the portal.

The IDNR also notes that there were three lottery drawings for firearm or muzzleloader permits from March 2024 through August 2024. The third season for muzzleloader deer hunting is scheduled for December 13-15. During the second Firearm Deer Season, hunters may use a muzzleloader permit with a muzzleloading rifle.

Chronic wasting disease (CWD) was first discovered in Illinois in 2002. Since then, IDNR has implemented a targeted surveillance program to investigate the disease. Hunters who harvest deer in CWD-positive counties can have samples taken at mandatory physical check stations. In other counties, samples can be submitted at drop-off barrels or sampling vendors.

CWD is a neurological disease affecting deer and elk and is fatal. Symptoms include emaciation, uncoordination, excessive salivation, listlessness, and holding the head low with drooping ears. Some affected animals may not show signs at all.

Severin has served in the Illinois General Assembly since 2016, initially representing the 117th District and currently representing the 116th District. He resides with his wife in Benton and owns All-Stars-n-Stitches in Benton and Graphics Galore in Marion.