Originally Posted by
JFergus7
Like mentioned Morain Hills or Volo are options but even if you draw a tag that will only give you a 4 day pass to hunt. The Chain has public but it is a circus trying to get out and hunt it. I would either look north in Wisconsin or hit up Midewin in Joliet. Passes for Midewin are free and will be available in 2 weeks and with a ton of land and few hunters it will probably be your best bet. If you want to travel a bit farther Mathisin/Starved Rock are in LaSalle Co and has some big bucks. I hunted that area alot a few years back and hardley ever ran into other hunters.
He hit it on the head. The chain only allows bow hunting on Monday and Tuesdays and you have to stay within 50 yards of a designated marker. I hunt down near Peoria and due to Bridge construction I've had to drive through Midewin and the Arsenal and there is a lot of land to cover. It gets some pressure but if you are willing to put in a little scouting (on foot and on the computer) you can find some spots. There are deer out there and some above 130" you just have to be smart and out think other hunters. I've also seen some decent bucks at Des Plaines SP while pheasant hunting. They are smart but i've personally seen a couple 130". They hold like pheasant too, I've came within 20 yards of both the big bucks I've seen.
I live in the West Loop so I feel your pain. There isn't much around the city but it makes you appreciate it more when you are out in the woods. Good Luck!