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Friday, September 18th, 2026

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Gretchen Steele: The deer hunter’s annual September lie: ‘I’m ready’

Any hunter who says they’re ready for the Oct. 1 deer season opener is stretching the truth, Gretchen Steele writes – but there is still enough time in September to make the lie closer to the truth. (Photo by Gretchen Steele)

Somewhere between the Fourth of July and the first cool September morning, somebody stole about six weeks from the calendar. I would like them returned immediately.
Because Illinois archery deer season is coming, and I am ready. Except I’m not. That was a lie. It is the same lie deer hunters across Illinois are telling spouses, hunting partners and, most enthusiastically, themselves.

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