Waterfowl blind drawings scheduled for northern Illinois hunting sites

SPRINGFIELD — The Illinois Department of Natural Resources has announced dates and locations for 2026 waterfowl hunting blind drawings, including several sites in northern Illinois. Hunters must register in person and be present for the drawings to claim a blind location, with no mail in or advance registrations accepted. Registration for one year blind allocations will be held July 25 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area in DeKalb County and Sinnissippi Lake in Whiteside County. Registration will also be held July 26 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Lake DePue State Fish and Wildlife Area in Bureau County and at Buffalo Rock State Park for hunters seeking blinds at Starved Rock State Park in LaSalle County. Participants must present a valid Illinois hunting license, migratory waterfowl stamp and photo identification. Applicants must be at least 16 years old and have no suspended or revoked hunting privileges. Additional information is available through the Illinois Department of Natural Resources.