SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WSIL) -- The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) has announced the waterfowl season dates and zone lines for the 2026-2030 seasons. IDNR says this decision follows a detailed analysis of scientific data and feedback from waterfowl hunters.

“Illinois is a large, diverse state with weather and climate patterns that change significantly from north to south,” Doug McClain, IDNR’s wetland wildlife program manager, said. “Taking this reality into account, along with the federal waterfowl framework and the diverse hunting styles and opinions of waterfowl hunters, these dates and zone lines offer opportunity for all waterfowl hunters across the state."

The changes include the combination of the South-Central and South zones into one South Zone, while other zone bou

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