Illinois has had four waterfowl hunting zones since 2011, but the state's wildlife managers are planning to revert to a three-zone format starting next year.
The proposed changes also include a split season and a rearrangement of duck season dates, which were influenced by opinions shared by duck hunters.
While DNR credits duck hunters for sharing opinions that led to proposed changes to the 2026-2030 season framework, response from at least one segment of hunters to the changes appears to have the agency backpedaling a bit.
The changes have drawn concern from some hunters, who had shown increasing support for alternative options over the past several years.
Author's summary: Illinois waterfowl hunting zones and seasons are being revised.