You Bagged a Buck in Illinois: Now What? Don't Let Tagging Turn into a Fawntasy!
So, congratulations hunter extraordinaire! You've managed to outsmart a wily Illinois deer and emerge victorious (with a hopefully humane kill, of course). But before you start prepping that trophy mount or whipping up a venison chili, there's a crucial step you absolutely cannot forget: tagging your deer.
Now, this might seem like a no-brainer, but let's be honest, the adrenaline's pumping, you might be covered in camouflage (and maybe a little deer blood, we won't judge), and the last thing you want is to mess up the legal side of things. Fear not, my friend, for this guide will be your beacon in the post-hunt haze!
The Tag Team: Your Two Trusty Companions
When you purchase your Illinois deer permit, it comes with two trusty companions:
- The Leg Tag: This bad boy is the MVP. Immediately (and we mean immediately) after taking down your deer, before you move it or even think about field dressing, detach this tag from your permit and write the confirmation number you get from registering your harvest on it. Think of it like a high five for your deer - a sportsmanlike "you fought well" gesture.
- The Head Tag: This one's for the head honcho (literally). If you're planning on getting that magnificent rack mounted, then detach this tag and keep it handy for the taxidermist.
Remember: These tags are like a VIP pass to legally possessing your deer. Don't lose them, don't forget them, and don't let your excitement turn into an interrogation by the DNR.
Attaching the Tag: A Not-So-Fancy Ceremony
Alright, so the adrenaline might still be coursing through your veins, but try to channel your inner MacGyver. You need to attach the leg tag to your deer's leg. Here's how:
- Find a fastener: We're not talking a tuxedo stud here. Any wire, zip tie, or even a shoelace (in a pinch) will do.
- Through the Holes We Go: The tag will have holes provided. Just like threading a needle (hopefully you have better luck with this than sewing!), thread your fastener through those holes and secure it tightly to the deer's leg.
Pro Tip: Don't just clip it on and hope for the best. Make sure that sucker is on there good and tight. You wouldn't want your deer to become a runaway tag-less criminal, would you?
The After Party: Check-In Time
Now that your deer is properly tagged, it's time to celebrate... responsibly, of course. But there's one more important step: checking in your harvest. You have until 10 pm that same day to report your success story to the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (DNR). You can do this by calling their toll-free hotline or logging on to their online system.
Don't be that guy who forgets to check in! It's like forgetting to RSVP to your grandma's birthday party - rude and illegal.
FAQ: Tagging Your Illinois Trophy
Phew! That wasn't so bad, was it? Now, onto some frequently asked questions:
- How to get a deer permit in Illinois? You can't snag one of these at the local gas station. Head to the DNR website or an authorized retailer to purchase your permit and tags.
- How long do I have to tag my deer? Not a single second can be wasted! Tag that deer immediately after you take it down.
- What if I lose my leg tag? Oh deer! Contact the DNR immediately. They might be able to issue you a replacement.
- Do I need to tag the head if I'm not getting it mounted? Nope! The head tag is strictly for taxidermy purposes.
- How long do I have to check in my harvest? Don't wait until tomorrow's hangover sets in. Check in your deer by 10 pm the same day you bag it.
So there you have it, folks! Tagging your deer in Illinois - a breeze, right? Now get out there, be safe, be respectful, and happy hunting!
