Illinois hunters get faster CWD alerts and new hunting opportunities in 2025-2026.

Illinois hunters in the 2025-2026 season will get faster CWD test results via automated email and text alerts through the ExploreMoreIL account, with notifications for deer harvested in the 25-county CWD endemic zone. The Illinois DNR also announced trapping permit drawings in October 2025 at three sites, with permits awarded by lottery for specific zones. Meanwhile, the Wayne County Farm Bureau continues its raccoon roundup with cash rewards, a new accessible hunting blind opened near Clinton Lake, and the Hunters Feeding Illinois program expands to new counties.