So You Wanna Wrestle a Snapper? A Guide to Hunting Snapping Turtles in Illinois (Emphasis on Not Getting Your Fingers Snapped Off)
Ah, the snapping turtle. Nature's angry grandpa with a shell and a jaw that could crush a walnut (or maybe your thumb, be careful). But hey, maybe you're looking to add a little excitement (and danger) to your next fishing trip. Perhaps you've always dreamed of a trophy photo with a grumpy reptile. Well, hold onto your hats, because we're diving into the wild world of Illinois snapping turtle hunting!
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| Can You Hunt Snapping Turtles In Illinois |
First Things First: Is It Even Legal?
Absolutely! But with a few snags (pun intended). In Illinois, you can hunt the common snapping turtle (Chelydra serpentina, the kind that looks like it could give you a side-eye). But here's the catch (again, punnery!):
- You need a valid fishing license. Hey, these guys are basically aquatic battering rams, so it kinda makes sense.
- There's a season for snapping turtle wrangling. It runs from mid-June to mid-October, so don't go out there expecting a turtle tussle in December (they're probably napping anyway).
- You gotta be gentlemanly (or gentlewomanly) about it. No traps or nets are allowed, so get ready for an old-fashioned showdown. Hand, hook and line, or bow and arrow are your only options. There will be a pop quiz on proper detangling techniques later.
- Check the county exceptions! Bowfishing for snappers is a no-go in some southern counties. Don't be that guy who shows up with a fancy bow only to be met with disappointed turtle stares.
Gearing Up for Glory (or Maybe Just Dinner)
Alright, so you've got the legalities down. Now it's time to prepare for battle (or, you know, a slightly less dramatic turtle wrangling session). Here's what you'll need:
Tip: Don’t just scroll to the end — the middle counts too.
- Thick gloves. These snappers have a bite that can make a grown man cry (or at least wince dramatically).
- Long-handled pliers. For those oh-so-fun moments when your bait gets a little too friendly.
- A net (optional). Listen, if you manage to snag a snapper with a hook and line, you might want some backup. Just sayin'.
- A cooler (also optional, but highly recommended). Unless you plan on releasing your reptilian friend, you'll need a place to store your bounty.
Bonus tip: Maybe wear some old clothes. Turtle wrestling isn't exactly a clean sport.
Frequently Asked Snapping Turtle wrangling Questions (How To Avoid Becoming Turtle Chum)
How to identify a common snapping turtle?
QuickTip: Highlight useful points as you read.
Easy! Look for the grumpy face, the aggressive neck, and the general "I will mess you up" vibe. Seriously though, they're pretty distinct.
How to actually catch a snapping turtle?
QuickTip: Save your favorite part of this post.
This is where things get interesting. Use bait (like fish or worms) on a hook and line, or try your luck with some good old-fashioned hand fishing (just be careful!).
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How to avoid getting bitten?
Tip: Take your time with each sentence.
Gloves. Thick gloves. Did we mention gloves? Also, respect the turtle's space. These guys aren't exactly cuddly.
How to tell the difference between a common snapping turtle and an endangered species?
If it looks like it could swallow a small child whole, it's probably not the one you want to mess with. Leave the alligator snapping turtles alone! They're protected.
How to enjoy your snapping turtle experience (safely and responsibly)?
Be prepared, be respectful of the animal, and maybe take a friend (who also has thick gloves). And hey, if you decide turtle wrestling isn't for you, there's always bass fishing!
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