SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WCIA) — A recent report from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources reveals that the youth firearm deer season in the state has achieved a new record in terms of deer harvest.

Youth hunters, defined as those under the age of 18, are eligible to hunt, provided they are accompanied by a licensed adult. This initiative allows young hunters to experience the sport safely and responsibly.

The youth deer hunting season spanned three days—October 11, 12, and 13. During this period, young hunters in Illinois successfully harvested a total of 4,714 deer. This figure marks an increase of over 600 deer compared to last year’s total of 4,097, according to the IDNR.