Devils Island Wildlife Management Area
🏆🏆🏆 Illinois River Backwater — Backwater wetland on the Illinois River — managed for waterfowl habitat and flood control
Devils Island Wildlife Management Area protects backwater wetlands along the Illinois River — part of the vast Illinois River floodplain system that once supported enormous waterfowl populations. The Illinois River valley was historically one of the most productive waterfowl habitats in North America, with fall duck migrations numbering in the millions. Drainage and levee construction destroyed 90% of the original floodplain wetlands, making remaining sites like Devils Island critical for migrating and wintering waterfowl.
Visitor Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Illinois River, IL |
| Entry Fee | Free |
| Habitat | 90% of IL River wetlands lost! |
About Devils Island WMA
Devils Island Wildlife Management Area protects Mississippi River bottomland in western Illinois. The island and surrounding backwater channels provide critical habitat for waterfowl, wading birds, and fish. The Mississippi River floodplain here creates one of the most productive ecosystems in the Midwest.
Devils Island Wildlife Management Area provides hunting and wildlife observation along the Illinois River in one of the state’s most important wetland corridors. The Illinois River valley is a critical segment of the Mississippi Flyway — millions of waterfowl migrate through each spring and fall, making it one of the premier duck hunting regions in the Midwest.
Things to Do
Waterfowl hunting (seasonal — the Mississippi Flyway location is prime), fishing in the backwater channels, birdwatching, and boating. The river island setting is scenic and wild.
Waterfowl hunting (seasonal — the Illinois River is legendary for duck hunting), birdwatching during migration, fishing, and observing the Mississippi Flyway wetland ecosystem.
Insider Tips
Hidden gem: Devils Island WMA offers some of Illinois’ best waterfowl hunting along the Illinois River bottomlands. Pro tip: Spring flooding creates excellent habitat for migrating shorebirds and wading birds. Local knowledge: The WMA is managed primarily for waterfowl — blinds and hunting access require an IDNR permit during season.
Best Time to Visit
Fall: Peak waterfowl migration. Spring: Shorebird migration and flooding creates unique habitat. Summer: Fishing and wildlife observation. Winter: Eagle viewing along the Illinois River.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit to hunt at Devils Island WMA?
Yes. Illinois Wildlife Management Areas require a valid hunting license and a Site-Specific Permit for waterfowl hunting. Permits are available through the IDNR lottery system. Check the Illinois Department of Natural Resources website for current season dates and regulations.
🦆 Visit Devils Island WMA
Illinois River backwater — critical refuge for migrating waterfowl.
