Look online for "Illinois public hunting" and you should find the DNR website. There is state owned land that the public can use for recreation (camp, hunt, fish, hike, etc).

So anywhere I could hunt I could hunt for small game

That really depends on site specific regs. FYI, pellet guns are not specifically allowed for anything except blackbirds and crows causing property damage; I'd call the DNR @ (217) 782-6431 before you spend your money

Understanding that you want to start out small you might also consider taking on the RESPONSIBILITY of obtaining a rimfire rifle.You should be able to get one with the amount of $ that you mentioned and ammo is fairly cheap.The choice is yours(and your fathers) but when you think about the ethical killing power a .22 caliber would be small,easy to shoot, and a little more powerful.This could also lead to hunting slightly larger animals ie. woodchucks,fox,crows.These animals could be taken with a high power air rifle as well, but making clean kills is important too! I wish you the best of luck!!!SAFETY! SAFETY! SAFETY! Welcome to our great sport and cherish it.:sign0016:

where are you located exactly? im in bradley il, tons of places to hunt. if you are an hour south you cant be to far from me

i agree with predate a good little 22 is great for small game and you can get one with out breaking the bank. i have a little rossi single shot 22 i got used for like 130