Hadley Creek offers self-guided hunts for experienced deer hunters who enjoy the challenge of reading the land, making decisions and hunting on their own. We introduced them on a limited basis in 2009 when we were convinced we could run self-guided hunts the Hadley Creek way with top quality trophy managed land and low hunting pressure. Hunter feedback and success has been excellent as we've had an 80 plus percent shot opportunity rate on qualifying bucks and a rebooking rate topping 60%. Our largest self-guided deer to date is a 208 7/8" buck taken the first week of the 2010 archery season and in our first three seasons we've killed eight more grossing over 170.

Our self-guided hunts provide:

Quality Ground: An average of 100 acres per hunter on some of the finest whitetail ground that Illinois has to offer... trophy managed farms averaging 70% timber 30% crops and food plots.

Limited Pressure: Self-guided farms aren't hunted week-to-week meaning that no one will hunt the farm the week before you get here... or the week after you leave. It takes twice the amount of ground to run our hunts this way but it's the only way to consistently deliver the quality hunting experience and trophy potential Hadley Creek Outfitters is well known for.

140 Minimum: All Hadley Creek ground is now under a 140 (gross) minimum and on self-guided hunts a $500 fee is charged for bucks that fail to reach that standard. We don't call it a penalty as we realize that a 130 class buck is a trophy in many parts of the country... but the minimum is in place and enforced to protect our younger bucks. It's one of the primary reasons our trophy quality continues to improve each year. There is no fee for bucks grossing over 140.

Stands and Recovery Assistance: All self-guided farms have stands in place, both top-of-the-line loc-on's and ladders. Hunters are still encouraged to bring their own as we don't cover every location possibility. Having stands set and trimmed gives hunters a head start learning the property, it makes their first day productive and it keeps the pressure off the farms. We also provide assistance with deer recovery.

Two Self-Guided Options: Self-guided hunts are offered with or without lodgIng. Our self-guided lodge is upscale, modern, comfortable, and nicely appointed. Meals are not included but the lodge has two full kitchens with microwaves plus it has two gas grilles for your use and there are restaurants in the area.

Not Included: Self-guided hunts do not include daily guide service, field dressing, trophy preparation or transportation during the hunt.

Hadley Creek self-guided hunts are less expensive than our fully-guided trips, but they aren't "cheap" hunts. They are high quality hunts that are priced to keep hunting pressure light and success rates high. While they are self-guided, we have a full time guide dedicated to the operation. He knows the farms and is available to provide advice as our goal is to make your hunt as enjoyable and successful as possible. If you're an experienced whitetail hunter who enjoys the challenge of reading the land and matching wits with trophy bucks one on one, a Hadley Creek self-guided hunt may be perfect for you. A $500 deposit holds your hunt date. The remainder of the fifty percent deposit will be due April 30 with final payment will be due approximately three weeks prior to your hunt. 2012 rates and dates are as follows: