Before You Arrive

Guest Info & FAQs.

What to expect before, during, and after your hunt with Bad Habit Outdoors.

Guest Info

What to expect at the lodge.

Getting Here

Bad Habit Outdoors operates across Pike County, Illinois (waterfowl) and Pike County, Missouri (whitetail). Closest commercial airport: St. Louis Lambert (STL) — about 1.5 hours from Pike County. Final driving directions and meeting locations are sent with your booking confirmation. Contact us for details on travel logistics.

Lodging & Meals

Whitetail deer hunts include on-site lodging that sleeps up to five. Breakfast and lunch are included on every guided waterfowl hunt; meals provided vary by package. Specific lodging and meal details are confirmed per booking.

What to Bring

Valid Illinois or Missouri hunting license and applicable stamps (federal duck stamp for waterfowl, state habitat/migratory stamps where required). Cold-weather layers, waterproof boots or waders, your shotgun (12 or 20 gauge with 3" non-toxic shells), bow or rifle for whitetail packages. A full packing list is sent with your booking confirmation.

Common Questions

Before you book.

How do I reserve dates?

A 50% non-refundable deposit holds your dates. The balance is due before arrival.

What's the cancellation policy?

Deposits are 50% non-refundable. Contact us for details on rescheduling or transferring to a future season.

Do I need a hunting license?

Yes — every hunter is responsible for their own valid license and stamps.

What gauge and ammo should I bring?

For waterfowl, a 12 or 20 gauge shotgun with 3" non-toxic (steel/bismuth/TSS) shells will cover any hunt we run. For whitetail, bring the appropriate bow, crossbow, or firearm for the dates you've booked.

Are gratuities expected?

Tipping your guide is appreciated and customary in the industry.

Can you accommodate non-hunters or first-timers?

Yes. Our hunts are run with safety, professionalism, and patience.

Are dogs and bird cleaning included?

Yes. Trained retrievers work every waterfowl hunt, and bird (animal) cleaning is included with every waterfowl package.

What's the typical group size?

Whitetail deer packages accommodate up to 5 hunters. Waterfowl packages run 1–6 hunters per blind.

Do you offer dove or turkey hunts?

Yes — both are available by request. We don't run fixed schedules for these. Dove · Turkey

Reserve Your Dates

Still have questions?

Dates fill fast. Call the lodge or send us your details — we'll get back to you within a business day.