Illinois Coonhound Events

Coonhounds, a specific breed of hound boasting a powerful sense of scent, gained their name after being used to hunt raccoons. Coonhound events, like those found in Illinois, typically feature a hunt and some type of show. In Illinois, you can locate coonhound events through national organizations, like the American Kennel Club, or regional resources, such as the Illinois State Coonhunters Association.

  1. Professional Kennel Club's World Coonhound Championships

    • The Professional Kennel Club's World Coonhound Championships were traditionally hosted in Kentucky. In late 2009, however, the event was relocated to Salem, Illinois. The Professional Kennel Club had been considering relocating; when an ice storm paralyzed Kentucky, Illinois stepped up to the plate. Firearms are not allowed at the PKC World Coonhound Championships. The hunt is based solely on which coonhound can chase and capture raccoons the fastest.

    American Black &Tan Coonhound Association

    • American Black &Tan Coonhound Association events are regularly held in Illinois. Events in 2011 include the Oraville Sportmans Club hunt, held in Oraville on March 19; the May 27-28 Pearl City Coon Club event; and the Sorento CHA event scheduled for June 10-11. American Black &Tan Coonhound Association events are intended to encourage black and tan enthusiasts and promote the breed through hunts and shows, while providing a forum for enthusiasts to interact with each other and the breed.

    Illinois State Coonhunters Association Events

    • The Illinois Department of National Resources regulates the Illinois State Coonhunters Association. Its local clubs host competition bench show and night hunts throughout the year. Prestigious events include the Governor's Cup hunt and the Battle of Breeds. In addition, the association often promotes youth hunt events, including a Scholarship Hunt. The association was developed in 1971 with the goal of uniting Illinois coon hunting sportsmen to protect and preserve coon hunting for the benefit of future generations. Its emphasis on youth hunting events reflects this goal.

    United Kennel Club Events

    • One of the most prestigious coonhound events hosted in Illinois is the United Kennel Club World Coonhound Championship Finals (although this is not always located in Illinois). In 2009, the event was held in Elizabeth, Illinois, where 100 coonhound dogs competed for the title of World Champion. The United Kennel Club also hosts additional events in Illinois, including an annual Outstanding UKC Coonhound of the Year Series event; in 2011, this event will be held in Sparta, Illinois on April 30.