From IDNR
IDNR - Got a bobcat bothering you, your kids, your pets or your livestock? Ever just have a hankering to shoot a large, pretty feline even though they can't shoot back? Failed at bagging a buck during last deer season, even though you had maximum tags and more people struck deer with their vehicle during hunting season than you and your buddies ever even saw from your tree stand, and you just wanna kill something, anything?
Well, the Illinois Department of Natural Resources has just the solution for you: Their 2018-2019 Bobcat Hunting and Trapping Permit.
You'll need to hurry on over to the IDNR website (hit this link) to apply, which application comes with a $5 non-refundable fee, so have your credit card ready. Only 1,000 permits will be allocated to prospective hunters during a lottery (drawing from those who've applied) and these will be mailed to successful applicants, according to the IDNR website.
Dates for the deaths of Robert- and Robertacats (along with baby Bobbies, as some will be left parentless) will be November 10 through February 15. The season will close, however, prior to the Feb. 15 date if the harvest limit of 375 bobcats for the season is reached.
Also please note: Bobcat hunting is closed during firearm deer season in counties open to firearm deer hunting (which is pretty much most of em in downstate, as the bobcats occasionally feast on deer...but not enough.)