Here's a phenomenal 565-acre hunting lease in sought-after McDonough County, IL. This farm has everything needed to hold and produce mature Illinois bucks. Based on the location and topography, I have no doubt that mature bucks are already calling this farm home. If you're wondering about the genetics in this area, take a look at the photo of the landowner and his son from several years ago. Both of these bucks had 17 points. Now imagine managing this farm and getting the opportunity to harvest one of those giants at 5 ½ years old. The property is a diverse mix of timber, tillable, pasture ground, two ponds, a seasonal creek, and prime bedding areas. The pasture ground is labeled on the aerial photo and will have cattle from March through mid to late October. This should not affect your hunting whatsoever. In fact, I used to hunt a farm with cattle on the south end of the lease, and the landowner would not allow us to hunt there until they were removed. Once they were out, we were in. It's no different than this setup.
During my visit, I easily jumped 10 to 15 deer, and the farm was absolutely littered with deer sign. Well-worn trails crisscrossed the entire property. With the way the timbered fingers lay out, there are a number of secluded pockets and corners where deer should feel comfortable entering the row crops in daylight hours. The timber is thick with underbrush, providing great security cover. Once you step on the property, it will not take long to identify key stand locations. I would also consider using a couple of box blinds, especially on the northeast side of the farm, where it connects to the large block of timber. There's no doubt the two ponds and seasonal creek will be essential water sources during the pre-rut and rut. Even more important, multiple access points allow you to enter the farm with any wind direction, giving you an edge when targeting a mature buck. If you're serious about harvesting a mature Illinois buck, I believe this farm is going to give you every opportunity to do so.
*Lease runs one year from date leased.
*No trucks are to be driven on the farm.
*The use of an ATV is authorized for hunting purposes only - NO joy riding.
*The use of screw-in steps and nails are prohibited - do not nail anything to a tree.
*The area where the cattle are located is marked on the aerial photo - They will go on in March and come off in mid to late October; however, that is not a guarantee.
*The small square box with an X is not part of this farm.
