My inlaws own some land in Illinois and I know that it is really good hunting. I have wanted to hunt it for some time now, but I have not had the time or money. Here is the prob. I have bow and muzzleloader. I don't know if I want to bow hunt up there or muzzleload. Bow is more expensive, but the season starts in the begining of Oct. and is only closed for Nov 22,23,24. and a couple of days in Dec. I want to have the best chance that I can to get a good buck. With bow you get a longer season and the rut, but they have to come close. The other thing is that during muzzleloader there are a ton of people in the woods. The locals say that it is crazy. Any way. What would you do and what options would you be weighing. During bow I would have the woods to myself. If you chose bow what would the date that you would want to be up there is a stand? Let me know any of your comments.

-thanks

With Bow you'd have alonger season but shorter shootingrange. You might see one but not have a shot. If I went bow I'd want to be out in the woods RIGHT NOW!!With the rut started andbefore the first gun season kicks off this Fridaycausing the deer get more skittish and the woods toget full of human scent. It's a little bit late for that now. I know it's still possible to kill a good buck after gun season with a bow but the odds are better BEFORE.

On the flip side -- You get that longer range shot with the smokepole and a little less scent discipline is required.

I haven't answered your question but havegiven you "my thoughts"...some of the variables that you may want to consider.

Best look into some permits first.

i'd go with a bow... when gun season rolls around the deer are spooked!

In reply to unclematt, I know that I have to aply for the licesnse, hopefully that I will get drawed. Thanks for the replies. I think that i am leaning twords the bow. Better time of the year, longer season, less people, and I enjoy taking one with the bow then any other way.

To add to this, If you haven't already sent your permit application in yet forget it. Thisis the State of Blogo.........I mean Illinois. Your way too late. Not sure what the deadline is, but I sent mine in back in April.