08/09/2026
2026 Big Buck Contest
It’s time to get everything ready for this year’s Big Buck Contest!
The rules will remain mostly the same, with just a few updates for 2026.
Contest Rules
• Entry Fee: $25 per hunter.
• Entry Deadline: September 30, 2026.
• One buck entry per hunter. If a hunter harvests two bucks during the season, only the larger of the two will be entered into the contest.
• Scoring: All entries will be scored using the Buckmasters BTR Scoring System.
• Legal Harvest: Bucks may be harvested with any weapon that is legal under Illinois regulations during the appropriate hunting season. All Illinois hunting laws apply.
• Harvest Notification: As soon as you shoot a buck, please text me immediately—even if you have not recovered it yet. This provides a verified timestamp for your entry.
• Photo Submission: Once your buck has been recovered, text me a clear photo of the deer.
• Official Scoring: Bucks that appear to be top contenders will be officially measured and scored at a later date.
Prize Package
The 2026 Big Buck Contest winner will receive:
• 🏆 The 2026 Big Buck Contest Champion Belt Buckle (currently being made—photos will be posted as soon as it’s finished).
• 🦌 A FREE shoulder mount of the winning buck.
• ⏱️ Priority placement at the top of our mounting schedule, ensuring your trophy is completed and returned as quickly as possible.
Thank you to everyone participating this year. We appreciate your support and look forward to another great season.
Good luck, and hunt safely!
