2016 Illinois Outdoor, Hunting and Fishing Expos

2016 Illinois Outdoor, Hunting and Fishing Expos

Expo season is right around the corner and we will be attending many of the expos around the State of Illinois. 

Here is a list of some of the expos we know that are coming up. Send us information for your expo or other outdoor shows at capitoloutdoors@gmail.com.


- Let’s Go Fishing Show
Collinsville, Illinois
Jan. 8 - 10th 2016

Illinois Youth Crossbow Rule Now in Effect

Illinois Youth Crossbow Rule Now in Effect

Over a month ago Governor Bruce Rauner signed into law HB 3674 which established the use of a crossbow by youth. 

The new rule governing the use of crossbows by youth for deer hunting is now in effect. Below you'll see the exact language of this new rule.

 “ If the user possesses a valid Youth Hunting License and archery deer hunting permit, and remains under the direct supervision of a parent, grandparent, or guardian who is 21 years of age or older and who possesses a valid Illinois hunting license and valid archery deer permit. Accompaniment by a parent, grandparent, or guardian shall serve as evidence that express permission of an adult was granted to obtain the deer permit [520 ILCS 5/2.5a and 520 ILCS 5/3.1-9].”

Embedded is the complete wording of legal archery equipment for the State of Illinois.

New IDNR Fishing Tournament Permitting System now Online

New IDNR Fishing Tournament Permitting System now Online

A new permitting system for the organizers of fishing tournaments is now live on the IFishIllinois.org

With the increase in the number of tournaments, the DNR needs to be able to review numbers to see if this is effecting state fisheries.  Information collected will help site managers maintain a balance between tournament anglers and the general public. 

Illinois Fall Trout Season Opens October 17

Illinois Fall Trout Season Opens October 17

Not sure about you, but here at Capitol Outdoors our favorite season is fall. There is so much to do, from leaf peeping to catching rainbow trout. The Illinois Department of Natural Resources announced October 17, 2015 as the fall opener as well as locations.   

Watch our Trout Fishing  Show

You can read what we use and our setup here - Illinois Trout Fishing Tips

The 53 locations that will be open for Fall Trout Fishing Season are listed below: