Tuesday, September 22nd, 2026

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Tuesday, September 22nd, 2026

Breaking News for

Sportsmen Since 1968

Gretchen Steele

Squirrel hunting: A great way to build a lifelong hunter

Recently, I was overjoyed to see a local sportsmen club hosting a “Squirrel Derby” for young hunters. I’ve always felt that squirrel hunting was the best way to build a lifelong hunter and instill much-needed hunting skills.
Sadly, it seems for many to have fallen by the wayside. I see many types of “learn to hunt” and hunter recruitment programs skip completely over this valuable hunting experience and go straight for the big game or waterfowl hunts.

Squirrel hunting: A great way to build a lifelong hunter Read More »

Illinois DNR director’s priorities: staffing, funding

The feeling during DNR Director Natalie Phelps Finnie’s recent visit to the ATA Grand could be summed up in two words: Enthusiastic and hopeful. 
Since taking on the role in January, Phelps Finnie has proven that she not only talks the talk but walks the walk. During an interview about her plans for the agency, the southern Illinois native spoke humbly of hoping to inspire those working at DNR. She explained that various divisions inside the agency had become “siloed” and that one of her first moves was to open communication lines between the respective divisions, directors, and division chiefs.

Illinois DNR director’s priorities: staffing, funding Read More »

The Purple Paint Law: Unraveling the mysteries behind Illinois’ unique trespassing solution

Picture this: you’re out hiking in the picturesque Illinois wilderness, exploring the hidden gems of the great outdoors. As you traverse the unmarked terrain, a sudden realization dawns upon you — the absence of “No Trespassing” signs.
Instead, there are patches of vibrant purple paint splashed on trees and posts. Welcome to the curious world of the Purple Paint Law in Illinois.

The Purple Paint Law: Unraveling the mysteries behind Illinois’ unique trespassing solution Read More »

Looking for glimmers of hope through the drought in parts of Illinois

It’s miserably dry near my home in southwestern Illinois. Scary dry.
I repeatedly check the NOAA drought information, hoping to see some change and hope on the horizon. I spend too much time on blazing hot afternoons, scrolling through various radar forecasting maps hoping that the afternoon pop-ups and thunderstorms will travel overhead.

Looking for glimmers of hope through the drought in parts of Illinois Read More »

Embrace the heat: Here’s how to safely reconnect with nature this summer

Each passing summer seems to bring us increasingly long heat waves and high outdoor temperatures. These extended periods of high heat can present some particular challenges for outdoor recreationists.
As the sun’s rays beam down and the temperatures soar, many of us yearn for the great outdoors. before venturing into the scorching summer, taking precautions and prioritizing safety is essential. Let’s explore some valuable tips on how to recreate outdoors safely in high heat, ensuring you can embrace the season’s splendor without compromising your well-being.

Embrace the heat: Here’s how to safely reconnect with nature this summer Read More »

Proposed project on Illinois’ Kaskaskia River highlights importance of conserving river oxbows

Beyond their intrinsic natural beauty, river oxbows hold immense community engagement and economic growth potential.
Conserved river oxbows are magnets for nature enthusiasts and tourists seeking unique experiences. Visitors are drawn to the picturesque landscapes, serene waters, and diverse wildlife that oxbows provide. This influx of tourists creates a ripple effect, boosting local businesses and injecting vitality into the community.

Proposed project on Illinois’ Kaskaskia River highlights importance of conserving river oxbows Read More »

Rend Lake in Illinois hosts 3D archery national championship

Rend Lake was filled to the brim with all things archery during the 11th annual Scholastic 3D Archery (S3DA) Eastern 3D National Championship, held at the North Marcum Multiple Resource Area.
Nearly 700 youth archers representing 118 teams across 18 states descended on Rend Lake, hoping to be crowned a “National Champion” in their division and class.

Rend Lake in Illinois hosts 3D archery national championship Read More »

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