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Wednesday, November 11th, 2026

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Gretchen Steele: Illinois wasn’t always the whitetail destination it is today

A healthy population of big bucks in the lower half of Illinois has helped create a deer hunting industry. Historically speaking, the region’s deer population has staged an amazing comeback. (Photo by Gretchen Steele)

As the late September breeze carries the promise of the upcoming deer season, the anticipation is palpable in southern Illinois.
The golden hue of soybeans, the rhythmic fall of acorns, and the flickering trail camera images of whitetails preparing for the season all contribute to the excitement. For many, deer season is not just an event, but a cherished part of the year, akin to the anticipation of Thanksgiving dinner. But it wasn’t always this way.

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