METROPOLIS, IL – Earlier this year, the Illinois Department of Natural Resources released season and split timing schedules for Illinois waterfowl hunters. One of the proposed changes to the regular waterfowl hunting season would have disallowed waterfowl hunting during the traditional Christmas holiday season break.
State Rep. Patrick Windhorst shared his constituents’ concerns with the change, and advocated to IDNR officials that the change should be reversed to allow children and their parents to hunt together during Christmas break.
“The proposed change sparked a large response of displeasure to be expressed by southern Illinois waterfowl hunting enthusiasts to both my office and to the Department,” Windhorst said. “I am pleased to let my constituents know that their voice has been heard, and that the Department will host public meetings to discuss the 2026-2030 waterfowl hunting seasons.”
The meetings are scheduled as follows.
Wednesday, November 12, 2025, from 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM.
Southern Illinois University
Lawson Hall, Room 151
1075 Lincoln Drive, Carbondale, IL
Thursday, November 13, 2025, from 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Carlyle High School
Cafeteria and commons area
1461 12th St., Carlyle, IL
“I encourage anyone who is interested in obtaining information on the 2026-2030 waterfowl hunting season timing, zone splits, and timing splits to attend these informational meetings,” Windhorst said. “Your opinion can make a difference. Let your voice be heard on this issue.”