RE: Rut dates for Illinois
i couldnt tell you exact rut dates, the first weekend of firearm season is suppose to coincide with the peak of the rut, 1st season Nov 19-21;
but in my experience if you're looking for peak activity that could be any time from late october to the first day of firearms, depending on weather and other factors. if the weather is cool the last week of october can be very good.