Known by many as the “Illinois Bayou,” the area that encompasses Cypress Creek National Wildlife Refuge is one of the most significant natural areas in the state. It is home to waterfowl, deer, turkey, squirrel, rabbit and other game species. It includes a diversity of habitats: floodplain, upland forest, deepwater swamp, shallow wetlands, agricultural and early successional fields. The refuge includes 15,000 acres open to hunting.
| Activity | Season | Unit | Special Regulations |
| Archery Deer | State seasons apply | Open Area | State regulations apply. All state approved archery equipment is allowed. |
| Muzzleloader Deer | State seasons apply | Open Area | State regulations apply. |
| Firearm Deer | State seasons apply | Open Area | State regulations apply. |
| Youth Firearm Deer | State seasons apply | Open Area | State regulations apply. |
| Fur Bearer Hunting | State seasons apply | Open Area | State regulations apply. Hunters must possess and use only non-toxic shot shells. |
| Dove | State seasons apply | Open Area | State regulations apply. Hunters must possess and use only non-toxic shot shells. |
| Turkey | State Seasons apply | Open Area | State regulations apply. Hunters must possess and use only non-toxic shot shells. |
| Spring Season Only | *Bellrose Unit | Open to hunters with a valid IDNR Pulaski Pulaski The Pulaski is a special hand tool used in wildland firefighting. The tool combines an axe and an adze in one head, similar to that of the cutter mattock, with a rigid handle of wood, plastic, or fiberglass. The Pulaski is a versatile tool for constructing firebreaks, as it can be used to both dig soil and chop wood. Learn more about Pulaski county turkey hunting permit during the spring turkey season only. Turkey hunters may scout 24 hours prior to and during the season for which they possess a permit. state regulations and shooting hours apply. | |
| Upland Game | State seasons apply | Open Area | State regulations apply. Hunters must possess and use only non-toxic shot shells. |
| Waterfowl | State seasons apply | Open Area | State regulations apply. Hunters must possess and use only non-toxic shot shells. |
| Fishing and Bow Fishing | State seasons apply | Open Area | State Regulations apply. Nighttime fishing prohibited. |
State regulations apply for bag limits.
*Bellrose Unit is CLOSED to all access unless otherwise stated.
Related Documents
Laws, rules, and regulations