Illinois Deer Hunting

Illinois Whitetail, Upland, and Waterfowl Hunts

Welcome to one of the nation’s premier hunting lodges, located in serene Pike County, west-central Illinois; prime whitetail deer hunting territory, with some of the best upland hunting including wild quail hunting and pheasant hunting in the country.

A stay in our lodge will bring back old and create new memories for you, from the hunter who harvested his first deer or turkey, to the father and son who enjoyed an upland hunt together. From the time you step through the front door and smell the aroma of home cooking, until you lay on our freshly made country beds with feather pillows, you will know that you are someplace very rare, someplace found only in the country. ??

These traditions that we've shared with family and friends for over 100 years are now being shared with you, our guest. A visit our lodge we will help you create memories that you will cherish forever.

Location(s) of Hunt

Conveniently located in west-central Illinois, and easily accessible from I-70 and many other major highways. From Pleasant Hill, Illinois, go straight for 4.7 miles into Calhoun County. Turn left on #3680N Howell Hollow Rd., take first left; Carrolton Road #770E. (approximately 1? miles). Travel up about 1/4 mile. From St. Louis take I-70 to highway 79-North to Louisiana, MO. In Louisiana, turn east on highway 54. Cross the Mississippi River, travel to Atlas, turn right on to Highway 96- traveling south. From Alton/East St. Louis you can travel north on the Illinois side of the Mississippi to Highway 96.

Arrival/Departure Airport(s)

Our lodge in conveniently located easily accessible from many international and regional airports, such as:

  • St. Louis, MO - 80 miles
  • Chicago, IL - 275 miles
  • Kansas City, MO - 357 miles
  • Springfield, IL - 78 miles
  • Quincy, IL - 50 miles
  • Hannibal, MO - 40 miles

Mode of Transportation

Airport transportation is provided by "Hubb's Transportation" from St. Louis, MO and Quincy, IL. All guests arriving at alternative airports are responsible for their own transportation to our lodge, and each of these regional airports offer vehicle rental services. Upon arrival, comfortable transportation will be provided to and from our nearby hunting areas.

Lodging

Our lodge is the perfect place for that escape that you have been waiting for, stealing the hearts of guests from across the globe. Once you step into the luxurious comfort of this incredible facility, you will understand why guests return again and again. It is the best of Illinois and resorts.

A unique ambiance will permeate your senses when you step through the door. As soon as you slip off your shoes to glide over the gleaming solid oak floors of the dining room toward the Great Room you'll notice the delicious aroma of "Grandma's" cooking wafting through the air. Other lodges offer you a bagel or a muffin for breakfast, but here you get a hearty, home-cooked meal to start your day off right. As you marvel at the two-story stone fireplace, the Remington statues, the inviting sofas and chairs, and gaze out the floor-to-ceiling windows you'll catch a glimpse of the hundreds of yellow finches nesting in the trees around the lodge. The temptation to step out onto the large back deck is irresistible. Fresh air washes over you as you sink into one of the Amish crafted rocking chairs. The blessed sound of silence that envelopes the countryside is broken only by the occasional bird song.

You'll quickly discover that the rooms in our lodge are named and complete with matching decor. Most lodges may tolerate room numbers, but here, every room has its own unique character. They do have a few things in common: private bathrooms, thick towels, comfortable beds, ceiling fans and absolute cleanliness. An incredible sense of well-being will invade your soul as you feel the stress drain out of your body and reality sink in - you'll be enveloped in luxury, with all of nature's beauty just outside the door.

Food and Beverages

The cooks at our lodge prepare dinner and breakfast meals made from scratch. Homemade rolls, real mashed potatoes and old-fashioned cobblers are just a few of their specialties. We are known world wide for its presentation and abundance of food at each meal setting. These exceptional meals are included with all of our hunting rates and packages.

Hunting Overview

Legendary Pike County, Illinois deer in one of the finest whitetail deer hunting lodges in the country! The genetics here are the best in the country, and the food and habitat could not be better. With a strict management program in place to preserve growth, we have it all when hunting for incredible whitetail bucks. Our goal is to have 100% satisfaction for each deer hunter.

We have the best wild quail hunting and pheasant hunting in Illinois! Hunt for native bobwhite quail and pheasant behind some of the best hunting dogs in the country. Our German Shorthair Pointers and English Pointers are second to none. An abundance of native prairie grasses mixed with fields of milo present the ideal habitat for upland bird hunting. No need for you to work the dogs, carry the birds, and dress the game on our guided hunts. You’ll have the assistance of our friendly bird hunting guides. This Orvis endorsed wing shooting operation is one of the finest in the country and the only Illinois hunting lodge endorsed by Orvis.

Illinois waterfowl hunting cannot be compared to any other duck hunting area in the United States. Hunt diver ducks such as Canvas Backs along the great Mississippi River; or Mallards, Wood Ducks, and Teal in the flooded bean, corn and millet fields.

Turkey hunting is a favorite among hunters visiting the lodge, and this area has a long tradition of turkey hunting.

Species Available

Whitetail Deer Hunting

We are known as one of the best whitetail deer hunting lodges in the country. Pike County, Illinois deer hunting is known for its abundance, and we are located between the Mississippi and Illinois River drainages - the perfect habitat for large whitetail bucks.

Upland Bird Hunting

Experience some of the best wild quail hunting and pheasant hunting in Illinois! Hunt for native bobwhite quail and pheasant behind some of the best German Shorthair Pointers and English Pointers in the country. This Orvis endorsed wing shooting operation is one of the finest in the country.

Waterfowl Hunting

The waterfowl is unsurpassed in quality and can not be compared to any other area in the United States. This 1,000 acre paradise is along the Mississippi River, with four miles of river frontage and two islands in the river, providing a unique atmosphere that every dedicated waterfowl hunter should experience.

Turkey Hunting

Turkey hunting is a favorite among hunters visiting the lodge. We have designed our lodge with you, the hunter, in mind. Enjoy hunting native turkey in natural habitat. An abundance of CRP fields mixed with fields of milo and hardwoods present habitat ideal for turkey hunting.

Season(s) and Optimum Dates for Specific Species

Whitetail Deer Hunting:
Archery – October thru January
Rifle (Shotgun/Muzzleloader) – November thru January

Upland Bird Hunting: September 1st thru April 15th

Waterfowl Hunting: Late October thru Mid-January

Turkey Hunting: April

Weapons/Calibers Recommended

Whitetail Deer Hunting: Bow /Crossbow/Muzzleloader/Shotgun (Slugs only)

Upland Bird Hunting: Shotgun (28, 20 or 12 gauge recommended)

Waterfowl Hunting: Shotgun (20 or 12 gauge recommended)

Turkey Hunting: Bow/Shotgun (20 or 12 gauge)

Clothing/Equipment Suggestions

Whitetail Hunting:

  • Your bow or gun
  • Gore-Tex or rain gear
  • Knee high rubber boots recommended
  • Orange hat and vest (Gun only)
  • Bow or gun case
  • Rattling antlers (Optional)
  • Grunt tube (Optional)
  • Pull up rope
  • Safety belts are required
  • Binoculars (Optional)
  • Flashlight (Optional)
  • Hand warmers (Optional)
  • Camera (Optional)
  • Cooler (Optional)
  • Slippers or heavy socks (Shoes are removed in mud room)
  • Range finder (Optional)

Upland Bird Hunting:

  • Your Gun
  • Orange Hat and Vest (Hats are sold at lodge along with Orvis vests)
  • Gun Case
  • Shooting glasses
  • Comfortable boots
  • Camera (Optional)
  • Cooler (Optional)
  • Slippers or heavy socks (Shoes are removed in mud room)
  • Comfortable Shirt and Pants

Waterfowl Hunting:

  • Your Gun
  • Shooting glasses
  • Comfortable boots
  • Camera (Optional)
  • Cooler (Optional)
  • Slippers or heavy socks (Shoes are removed in mud room)

Turkey Hunting:

  • Illinois turkey hunting license
  • Your bow or gun and case
  • Gore-Tex or raingear
  • Full camouflage clothing including face mask and gloves
  • Turkey calls (Optional)
  • Turkey vest or cushion (Optional)
  • Binoculars (Optional)
  • Camera (Optional)
  • Cooler (Optional)
  • Slippers or heavy socks (Shoes are removed in mud room)
  • Good tick and bug repellent
  • Comfortable Shirt and Pants

Climatic Considerations

Most of Illinois has a humid continental climate with hot, humid summers and cool to cold winters. Hunters can expect an average temperature of around 30F during the winter months, and an average of around 80F in summer. Precipitation is common, with an average annual rainfall of around 38", and snowfall at approximately 18".

Special Hunt Considerations

Whitetail Deer Hunting

  • Largest bucks last year: 186"-182"-172"
  • A total of 27 Pope & Young Bucks were taken!
  • All whitetail are free roaming.
  • All hunts are fully guided. Guides take you to and from the stand. Guides do not sit in the stand.
  • We hunt on approximately 7,500 acres located in Pike and Calhoun Counties.
  • The average opportunity rate is approximately 60%.
  • We only harvest deer scoring 130 Pope & Young or better.
  • We encourage the harvesting of does.
  • Crossbows can be used by attaining a special permit from the IDNR.
  • Slugs are used with shotguns. Buckshot is not allowed.
  • All guns must be plugged and can only hold 3 shells at a time.
  • All guns and bows must be in cases while in the vehicle.
  • When a deer is wounded, a mandatory 48-hour search is required, before hunting is resumed.
  • Gun hunters must wear a solid orange cap and vest.
  • Average tree stand height-15’-18’. Higher and lower stands are available. Ground blinds are also available. Please call ahead to let us know any special requirements.
  • We use tree steps and stacking sticks.
  • Some ladder stands are available upon request.
  • Guides will field dress your deer.
  • Processing - A local processor can process your deer or you can process your deer yourself at the lodge.
  • Caping-There is a fee paid directly to a local processor.
  • Smoking Policy-No smoking in lodge, tree stands, or in guides' vehicles.

Upland Bird Hunting
Traditional Hunts (Limits on Pheasant, Woodcock & Wild Quail Hunting)
Pheasant hunting is limited to 4 cock pheasant. You may harvest up to 8 on wild quail hunts. Woodcock can be taken during open season dates only.

Premium Hunts (Liberated Hunts)
No limit liberated upland bird hunts are available upon request. In addition to quail and pheasant we offer fast fling Red Leg partridge. (Double Premium Hunts Now Available)

Size of Groups
We limit our upland hunters to 12 per day. Larger groups can be arranged on a private basis. There may be additional whitetail hunters also staying at the lodge.

Gun Rental
We have guns available for rent. Please call in advance if you would like to rent a gun.

Waterfowl Hunting
Bringing Your Own Dog: You may bring your own dog. The fee is $25 each night if staying in our kennel. Our kennels are outside and are 5'x10'. Our waterfowl guides will not use their own dogs with client dogs.

We are not responsible for quality of your hunt when using your own dog. Make sure your dog is in shape and is accustomed to hunting our conditions.

Turkey Hunting

  • Illinios turkey hunts are of the Eastern sub-species and 100% wild.
  • All hunts are fully guided. Guides will do the calling and the hunters are welcome to call if they would like.
  • We hunt on thousands of acres located in Pike and Calhoun Counties.
  • The average opportunity rate is approximately 90%.
  • We encourage the harvest of mature gobblers only. Jakes are permitted for a first time hunter only.
  • Bows are legal.
  • Shotguns must be 10 - 20 gauge.
  • Shot shells must be no larger than 4 shot and no smaller than 6 shot.
  • All guns must be plugged and no able to hold more than 3 shells at a time.
  • Hunters may harvest a second bird for an additional $500 if a second permit is held by the hunter for the same season.
  • Care of your bird is handled by your guide.
  • Smoking Policy - No smoking in lodge or in guides' vehicles.

Hunt Difficulty/Health Level

Whitetail Hunting
We welcome seasoned veterans and those who are just learning how to deer hunt. With deer hunting tips and strategies from our guides, your group is sure to have an incredible time.

Upland Bird Hunting
Most of our hunting is done walking. Breaks are taken during the hunt to water dogs and give the hunters a rest. Please let us know the pace you enjoy bird hunting. We have fast and slow working dogs. Our guided upland hunts are designed to accommodate your style.

Waterfowl Hunting
We provide pits and blinds located in flooded corn, bean, and millet fields. We like to take groups of 2-4 duck hunters. Pits and blinds are heated. Guests are driven to within a short walking distance of pits, shortly before legal shooting hours. Our professional waterfowl hunting guide will have decoys set and dog in place in anticipation of the morning's excitement.

Turkey Hunting
We hunt a mixture of steep hills, rolling hills, pastures, crop fields, and river bottoms. During your 3-day turkey hunt, you may hunt many of these different terrains. The physical demands of your hunt can vary from mild to challenging, but our turkey hunting guides are more than happy to accommodate your physical limitations and hunting style.



Hunt Cost & Hunt Length

Whitetail Hunting
Archery:

  • Six night, five day October 1st-5th $2550
  • Four night, three day Mid October $1650
  • Six night, five day October Pre Rut $2650-$3650
  • Six night, five day Nov. Rut Hunt $3950
  • Six night, five day Dec & Jan $1950
  • Four night, three day Dec & Jan Doe Reduction $650

Gun Hunts:

  • Four night, three day November Firearm Season $4200
  • Five night, four day December Firearm Season $3350
  • Four night, three day Muzzleloader Season $2450
  • Four night, three day Late Season Doe Hunts $650

Upland Bird Hunting
October-December Upland Hunts
(4 Cock Pheasants and 8 Quail limits, 2 Woodcock during season only)

  • Four night, three day bird hunt $2195
  • Three night, two day bird hunt $1570
  • Two night, one day bird hunt $835
  • Daily (no accommodations) $635

Premium Upland Hunts
(No limits Pheasant, Quail, Huns, Red Legg Partridge) More Birds!!

  • Four night, three day bird hunt $2495
  • Three night, two day bird hunt $1770
  • Two night, one day bird hunt $935
  • Daily (no accommodations) $735

September, January-April 15th Upland Hunts
Regular Upland Hunts (No Limits!)

  • Four night, three day bird hunt $1825
  • Three night, two day bird hunt $1250
  • Two night, one day bird hunt $675
  • Daily (no accommodations) $475
  • Half-Day (no accommodations) $230

Premium Upland Hunts
(No limits Pheasant, and Quail) More Birds!!

  • Four night, three day bird hunt $2295
  • Three night, two day bird hunt $1600
  • Two night, one day bird hunt $870
  • Daily (no accommodations) $690

Waterfowl Hunting
WATERFOWL/UPLAND COMBO (OCT 28-DEC 28)

  • Four night, three-day bird hunt $2850
  • Three night, two-day bid hunt $2000
  • Add $50/Day for Premium Upland Hunt

GOOSE/UPLAND COMBO (DEC 26 -JAN 20)

  • Two Hunters: Four night, three day bird hunt $2175
  • Two Hunters: Three night, two day bird hunt $1550

WATERFOWL HUNTS

  • Three night, three day duck hunt $1950
  • Two night, two day duck hunt $1400

Turkey Hunting

  • Three night, three day spring turkey hunt $1495


Payment Requirements (Deposit, etc)

50% of the total fees are due upon reservation of hunt dates, with the remaining balance due 75 days prior to date of arrival.

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