Carbondale Reporter

Southern Illinois is known for its longstanding tradition of hunting and fishing, with natural resources that have attracted both residents and visitors for generations. The region offers a variety of forests, lakes, rivers, and streams that provide opportunities to catch different species of fish and hunt wild game.

Historically, early settlers in southern Illinois relied on hunting and fishing to supplement their diets. Over time, as food sources became more accessible through modern means, these activities evolved into recreational pastimes. Today, many young people participate in trapshooting and bass fishing teams at schools across the area. These sports have grown so much in popularity that some students receive scholarships to continue their pursuits at colleges and universities.

Each fall, families from across Illinois and tourists visit state parks to hunt white-tailed deer. According to the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, hunters harvested over 170,000 white-tailed deer during the 2024-2025 seasons using various methods such as archery and firearms.

State Representatives Dave Severin (R-Benton), Patrick Windhorst (R-Metropolis), and David Friess (R-Red Bud) represent districts in southern Illinois with significant resources for outdoor recreation. Representative Windhorst’s district includes parts of the Shawnee National Forest, Cache River State Natural Area, Fort Massac State Park, and Lake of Egypt—a popular spot for bass, crappie, and catfish fishing.

“If you’re looking to hunt some of the biggest white-tailed deer you’ll find anywhere in the world, or if you’re looking to catch the biggest bass and catfish or the tastiest crappie, southern Illinois is the place you want to go,” Windhorst said. “We have a great tradition of hunting and fishing and the dozens of state parks, lakes, and forests. Come to southern Illinois and experience what we have to offer!”

Representative Severin lives near Rend Lake in Benton within the 116th district. His district features attractions like Wayne Fitzgerrell State Recreation Area where events such as fishing tournaments are held year-round.

“I am blessed to represent a district rich in natural resources and tourist attractions like Rend Lake and the Wayne Fitzgerrell State Recreation Area,” Severin said. “We have a rich hunting and fishing tradition in southern Illinois, and it is indeed big business, as hunting and fishing tourism continues to be an economic driver for the region. In Illinois, our politics may get ugly at times, but no one can argue that the southern Illinois region is anything but beautiful. Our state parks and recreation and conservation areas are a big contributor to that natural beauty and the natural attraction of folks from all over the country who come here to enjoy these resources and opportunities.”

Severin was elected as a Republican representative for Illinois’ 116th House District in 2023 after succeeding David Friess.

In Representative Friess’ 115th district is Sparta World Shooting & Recreational Complex—a large shooting facility hosting major sport shooting events.

“The Sparta Shooting Complex has long been a cornerstone of Southern Illinois values. The Shooting Complex brings families and young people together to enjoy the outdoors and learn about conservation,” Rep. Friess said. “I want to thank Skip Klinger, the current director of the Shooting Complex, and all the employees who support the Shooting Complex; they are passionate advocates for our youth. They provide our youth with great opportunities to work and participate in these world-class events. That’s why I proudly sponsored HB2327, which allows 14- and 15-year-olds to work as scorers in the U.S. Open and Grand American Championships while ensuring their safety. We must continue to encourage our young people to get outside, hunt, fish, and appreciate the natural beauty of our region. I will keep fighting for these Southern Illinois values.”

The traditions rooted in hunting extend from sustenance gathering by early settlers through today’s educational programs for youth—and continue as important contributors both culturally and economically throughout southern Illinois.

For more on this topic: https://www.thecaucusblog.com/2025/09/a-rich-tradition-of-hunting-and-fishing.html