Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge has announced the availability of 2025 applications for the special deer hunts held at Lost Mound. Two managed deer hunts, one for youth (10-17)/family and one for adults with disability (18 and older), are conducted within designated Closed Areas of Lost Mound. All hunters must be accompanied by an adult able-bodied attendant that is capable of tracking and retrieving a deer.

The application period extends from July 1 through July 31 and is open to residents and non-residents. All applications will be entered into a random drawing for 35 hunt sites on August 13. All hunters, attendants and any accompanying individuals must attend the mandatory hunt site check in and scout day that corresponds with their hunt. Youth Hunt check in will be held on November 8 12pm-5pm or November 21 from 12pm-4pm, and Adults with Disability Hunt check in will be held on Friday, November 14 8am-4pm. Location will be the Lost Mound Unit equipment storage building, 3159 Crim Drive, Savanna, IL 61074.

The youth/family hunt will be held on November 22-23, 2025 which coincides with the Illinois Firearms Deer First Season. An unfilled Illinois Youth Deer Permit or Jo Daviess County Deer Permit must be obtained and brought to the orientation. All youth must show certification of completion of a state approved hunter safety course.

The hunt for adults with disability will be held on November 15-16, 2025 which is the Saturday-Sunday prior to the Illinois Firearms Deer First Season. A minimum P2a Illinois disability classification (or similar disability certification from non-resident states) is required.  Wheelchair-bound and amputee hunters will receive priority selection for hunt sites. A Jo Daviess County Deer Permit is not needed in order to apply for this hunt, as this permit is provided by the Refuge. For additional information and copies of the regulations, hunters may call the Refuge Office at 815-273-2732 or stop in the office at 7071 Riverview Road, Thomson, IL 61285.