General Hunting Blog

March 11th, 2024 – Illinois Spring Pheasant Hunting Update-   “Hunt dates are filling up quickly for the remainder of the season- hunts available through early April! Our spring upland hunting offers the perfect cure for cabin fever! We have limited availability, give us a call today for more information at 217-734-2526. Don’t miss out on

This pup had a busy day!

In this State-to-State duck hunting comparison, we take an in-depth look at the different hunting style, habitat features and pros/cons of duck hunting in each renowned duck hunting state. Arkansas Duck Hunting Arkansas is well known for its duck hunting and for good reason. Thousands of acres of fertile river bottoms, marshes and swells, flooded

Great Day Pheasant Hunting!

Late Season Pheasant Hunting

Hunting late season pheasants is a completely different experience than opening day pursuits. Weather is generally colder, cover has changed drastically, and pheasants are wise to the tactics of the av

I am often asked what size shot hunters need when hunting quail and pheasants.
The first thing I need to know is what gauge of shotgun you are using. 
If you are using a 12 gauge or 20 gauge I would use 7 ½ shot.

Champion Bird Dogs

That time of the year has come when many folks think that the hunting season is over.  While this may be true for deer and duck hunters, it is not the case for Upland Bird Hunting at Heartland Lodge.  We had a busy fall and early winter season, and our hunting season will continue through

Giant buck harvested in Pike County, IL

Hunting trophy whitetails is one of the most challenging hunts in the world. You have heard a lot about Pike & Calhoun Counties being the premier spot to hunt these illusive animals. It’s our goal at Harpole’s Heartland Lodge to make sure your trip is everything you expect it to be. The following will make

Deer hunting over white oak acorns in October can yield success!

If you’re like me and you’re not too fond of this end of summer heat… your mind starts to wonder to those frost ridden mornings of October and November of the past. With only a few days to go before the archery season opens, you begin to finalize your October game plan. Maybe you already

Heartland Lodge Outfitters offers bow and firearm hunts

Things To Know You must purchase your deer permit and licenses in advance. You need the following: Deer Tags (Firearm Hunters, please send a copy of your deer tags to Mattb@HeartlandLodge.com if you have not done so already!) 5-Day Hunting License (You will need the full season hunting license if you are here for more

Heartland's Family Hunting Tradition

I grew up with a large extended family and a deep hunting tradition. My parents were both from Pike County, Illinois and moved to Quincy where I was born. We visited my grandparents and extended family often. Many of the visits included hunting. The memories that were created will be with me for the rest

Two big bucks down!

In over a quarter of a century watching and learning from all the hunters who have visited Heartland Lodge, I’ve learned going on hunting trips or hunting in general is like enjoying a milkshake. The planning and anticipation of the trip. Traveling to the destination where you will be spending the next several days. Being