The top 10 counties for most birds killed last spring were Pike (708), Jo Daviess (564), Adams (560), Macoupin (468), Fulton (444), Calhoun (410), Schuyler (398), Pope (378), Hancock (375) and Marion (363). These figures represented all spring seasons, including the youth hunt.

WAYNE COUNTY
Another county that is worth a serious look this year is Wayne. Around 270 birds were shot there last spring, and hunters enjoyed a success rate better than 25 percent. Hunters have been having very consistent success in Wayne County over the past five years. The percentage has remained above or very near 25 percent each of those seasons. That's not too shabby. Another real positive note for Wayne County is that the number of turkeys shot has increased each year for five straight years. That sounds really promising for this season.

BEFORE YOU GO
Hunters desiring to access the opportunities available at the State Fish and Wildlife Areas (FWAs) and other public hunting access sites should contact them directly or obtain the Hunter Fact Sheet for the area prior to the season so you can get the latest on regulations, permits required and other pertinent information. Contact numbers for all the public hunting areas are available in the 2007-2008 Illinois Digest of Hunting & Trapping Regulations, which is available at many outlets and sporting goods suppliers. It can also be accessed online at www.dnr.state.il.us/lands/landmgt/ hunter_fact_sheet/index. The DNR can be reached at (217) 782-6302, or online at www.dnr.state.il.us. Enjoy your turkey hunt, and have a safe season!