Get the Illinois hunting digest (paper booklet). It is free. Go to Ill. DNR publications & order it on line or pick up at a DNR/sporting goods store.
ALL public areas are lisrted & what weapons are legal & if applications are needed. There is also a pamphlet for TROPHY Managed areas (10 or 12) Most have to be applied for ahead of time & have a 4 per side or 5 per side antler restriction or you may have to tag a Doe b/4 able to shoot a Buck. There are some good Public areas-I've Bowhunted sevral over the years i lived in Ill..