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Illinois · 89 lakes

Illinois Fishing Lakes

Lake-by-lake species, seasonal bite, boat access, and regulations for the biggest fishing lakes in Illinois.

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Anderson LakeFulton County · 1,132 acres

Backwater lake / conservation area

Anderson Lake

Fulton County, Illinois

Anderson Lake is a natural bottomland impoundment on the west floodplain of the Illinois River, connected annually to the main stem. The water is typically turbid with a mud bottom and little aquatic vegetation.

Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors.

Surface area1,132 acres

Max depth5 ft

Shoreline9.1 mi

Boat motorsCheck local rules

Species

Fishery rating out of 5.

Channel Catfish●●●○○

Cut bait and nightcrawlers on flats and creek mouths in the evening.

Bluegill●●●○○

Weed beds and shallow flats in late spring.

Crappie●●●○○

Brush piles, docks and standing timber. Minnows or small jigs.

Largemouth Bass●●○○○

12-inch minimum, 6 per day

Boat launches

2 launch sites. Fees and hours change, so confirm before you go.

Anderson Lake boat rampRamp
Boat ramp; during waterfowl season boat fishing (electric motors only) is allowed in a designated area near the rampDirections ↗
More public accessPublic
See the IDNR or lake website for all ramps and feesDirections ↗

Size & creel limits

Special rules for this lake, confirmed from official state regulations. Minimum size and daily limit.

Species	Min size	Daily limit
Largemouth Bass Minimum length 12 inches; 6 daily	12 in	6 / day
Smallmouth Bass Minimum length 12 inches; 6 daily	12 in	6 / day

Other species in this lake: look up the limits at Illinois Department of Natural Resources ↗

Verified October 2026. Rules change, so confirm current limits with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources before you fish.

Bait & tackle nearby

No shops listed yet for this lake. Use the search link below.

Search more bait shops near Anderson Lake ↗

Local tips

Expect turbid water over a mud bottom; target channel catfish, bluegill and crappie, which rate Average per IDNR
Lake is only about 5 feet deep at spillway crest, so shallow-running presentations make sense
During waterfowl season boat fishing is limited to electric motors in a designated area near the ramp

Argyle LakeMcDonough County · 95 acres

State park lake

Argyle Lake

McDonough County, Illinois

Argyle Lake is a lake of about 93 acres in Argyle Lake State Park near Colchester in McDonough County. It is known for bass, bluegill and stocked muskie and trout.

Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors.

Surface area95 acres

Max depth34.6 ft

Shoreline5.5 mi

Boat motorsNo horsepower limit, but a no-wake speed limit is enforced

Species

Fishery rating out of 5.

Largemouth Bass●●●●○

Weeds, docks and wood in the shallows.

Bluegill●●●●○

Weed beds and shallow flats in late spring.

Crappie●●●○○

Brush piles, docks and standing timber. Minnows or small jigs.

Channel Catfish●●●○○

Cut bait and nightcrawlers on flats and creek mouths in the evening.

Muskellunge●●●○○

Tiger muskie are stocked

Rainbow Trout●●○○○

Stocked

Boat launches

2 launch sites. Fees and hours change, so confirm before you go.

Argyle Lake public boat launchRamp
Public launch and docks in the northwest arm, with boat and pontoon rentalsDirections ↗
More public accessPublic
See the IDNR or lake website for all ramps and feesDirections ↗

Size & creel limits

Minimum size and daily limit for each species in Argyle Lake are published by the state. Look up the current size and creel limits for this lake directly: Illinois Department of Natural Resources ↗

Rules change, so confirm current limits with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources before you fish.

Bait & tackle nearby

No shops listed yet for this lake. Use the search link below.

Search more bait shops near Argyle Lake ↗

Local tips

Try the northwest arm near the launch and docks for bluegill and bass.
The lake is no-wake, so plan on slow trolling or drifting.
Boat and pontoon rentals are available if you do not own a boat.

Baldwin LakeRandolph County · 2,018 acres

Power-plant cooling lake

Baldwin Lake

Randolph County, Illinois

Baldwin Lake is a 2,018-acre perched cooling lake in Randolph County, managed by IDNR as Baldwin Lake State Fish & Wildlife Area, about 2 miles north of Baldwin off Route 154. It is known for blue and flathead catfish and largemouth bass, and about 75% of its shoreline is rock rip-rap.

Air temp in Baldwin, IL Loading current temperature…

Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors.

Current air temperature at Baldwin Lake (National Weather Service) ↗

Surface area2,018 acres

Max depth—

Shoreline—

Boat motors50 hp limit

Species

Fishery rating out of 5.

Blue Catfish●●●●●

Deep channel edges. Fresh cut shad. Big fish in winter.

Flathead Catfish●●●●○

Live bait around wood and rock at night.

Largemouth Bass●●●○○

Weeds, docks and wood in the shallows.

Bluegill●●●○○

Weed beds and shallow flats in late spring.

Crappie●●●○○

Brush piles, docks and standing timber. Minnows or small jigs.

Channel Catfish●●○○○

Cut bait and nightcrawlers on flats and creek mouths in the evening.

Boat launches

2 launch sites. Fees and hours change, so confirm before you go.

Baldwin Lake two-lane boat rampRamp
Concrete two-lane ramp with docks and parking; shore access on west and north sidesDirections ↗
More public accessPublic
See the IDNR or lake website for all ramps and feesDirections ↗

Size & creel limits

Special rules for this lake, confirmed from official state regulations. Minimum size and daily limit.

Species	Min size	Daily limit
Largemouth Bass Also applies to smallmouth bass	18 in	3 / day
Crappie	9 in	25 / day
Striped/Hybrid Striped Bass	17 in	3 / day

Other species in this lake: look up the limits at Illinois Department of Natural Resources ↗

Verified October 2026. Rules change, so confirm current limits with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources before you fish.

Bait & tackle nearby

No shops listed yet for this lake. Use the search link below.

Search more bait shops near Baldwin Lake ↗

Local tips

Fishing hours: Feb 16-Oct 31 6 a.m.-9 p.m.; Nov 1-Feb 15 7 a.m.-5 p.m.
South half of the lake is closed to fishing during waterfowl hunting season; restricted areas are posted
Two pole and line only, max 2 hooks or lures per pole; zebra mussels present

View on interactive map

Zoom and pan on a street, satellite or terrain map. Red pins are boat launches.

Banner MarshFulton / Peoria Counties

Reclaimed strip-mine lakes / state fish & wildlife area

Banner Marsh

Fulton / Peoria Counties, Illinois

Banner Marsh State Fish and Wildlife Area lies about 25 miles southwest of Peoria on U.S. Route 24 and is a former strip-mined site restored to freshwater marsh. Its deep lakes, such as Johnson Lake and Shovel Lake, hold largemouth bass, muskellunge and channel catfish per IDNR.

Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors.

Surface area—

Max depth—

Shoreline—

Boat motors25 hp limit; motors over 25 hp must run no wake (Johnson and Shovel lakes)

Species

Fishery rating out of 5.

Largemouth Bass●●●●●

Very Good in Johnson and Shovel lakes

Muskellunge●●●●○

42-inch minimum

Channel Catfish●●●○○

Cut bait and nightcrawlers on flats and creek mouths in the evening.

Walleye●●●○○

Johnson Lake

Crappie●●●○○

Brush piles, docks and standing timber. Minnows or small jigs.

Bluegill●●○○○

Weed beds and shallow flats in late spring.

Boat launches

3 launch sites. Fees and hours change, so confirm before you go.

Bell's Landing (Shovel Lake)Ramp
Concrete boat ramp, 25 vehicle/trailer parking, restroomsDirections ↗
Johnson Lake boat rampRamp
Concrete ramp, 50 vehicle/trailer parking, accessible fishing pierDirections ↗
More public accessPublic
See the IDNR or lake website for all ramps and feesDirections ↗

Size & creel limits

Minimum size and daily limit for each species in Banner Marsh are published by the state. Look up the current size and creel limits for this lake directly: Illinois Department of Natural Resources ↗

Rules change, so confirm current limits with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources before you fish.

Bait & tackle nearby

No shops listed yet for this lake. Use the search link below.

Search more bait shops near Banner Marsh ↗

Local tips

Bass have a protected 12-18 inch slot with 3 per day on Johnson and Shovel lakes
Live bait over 8 inches must be rigged with a quick set rig
Fall waterfowl closure starts October 16; bank fishing allowed after 1 p.m.

Braidwood LakeWill County · 2,308 acres

Power-plant cooling lake

Braidwood Lake

Will County, Illinois

Braidwood Lake is a 2,241-acre cooling lake in Will County about 1.25 miles south of Braidwood off U.S. Route 53, managed by IDNR as a state fish and wildlife area. It is known for largemouth bass and blue catfish fishing and has installed fish habitat structures and rock piles.

Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors.

Surface area2,308 acres

Max depth—

Shoreline—

Boat motorsUnlimited horsepower (40 mph speed limit)

Species

Fishery rating out of 5.

Largemouth Bass●●●●●

Weeds, docks and wood in the shallows.

Blue Catfish●●●●○

Deep channel edges. Fresh cut shad. Big fish in winter.

Channel Catfish●●●○○

Cut bait and nightcrawlers on flats and creek mouths in the evening.

Wiper●●●○○

Hybrid striped bass. Chase surface-feeding schools and points with wind.

Flathead Catfish●●○○○

Live bait around wood and rock at night.

Bluegill●●○○○

Weed beds and shallow flats in late spring.

Boat launches

3 launch sites. Fees and hours change, so confirm before you go.

County Line Road ramp (south)Ramp
Four-lane concrete ramp with parkingDirections ↗
Cemetery Road ramp (north)Ramp
Two-lane concrete ramp with 35 parking spacesDirections ↗
More public accessPublic
See the IDNR or lake website for all ramps and feesDirections ↗

Size & creel limits

Special rules for this lake, confirmed from official state regulations. Minimum size and daily limit.

Species	Min size	Daily limit
Largemouth Bass Also applies to smallmouth bass	15 in	3 / day
Striped/White/Hybrid Striped Bass Only 3 may be 17 in or larger		10 / day

Other species in this lake: look up the limits at Illinois Department of Natural Resources ↗

Verified October 2026. Rules change, so confirm current limits with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources before you fish.

Bait & tackle nearby

No shops listed yet for this lake. Use the search link below.

Search more bait shops near Braidwood Lake ↗

Local tips

Lake closes to fishing when winds are projected at 30 mph or higher
Two pole and line only, max 2 hooks or lures per pole; tournaments closed July-August
Fall fishing closure Oct 15 and closed during waterfowl season; a working gasoline engine is required

Busse LakeCook County · 590 acres

Reservoir

Busse Lake

Cook County, Illinois

Busse Lake, also called Busse Woods Reservoir, is a reservoir of about 460 acres in the Ned Brown Forest Preserve in Cook County between Elk Grove Village and Schaumburg. It is known for largemouth bass, muskie and walleye close to Chicago.

Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors.

Surface area590 acres

Max depth—

Shoreline—

Boat motorsCheck local rules

Species

Fishery rating out of 5.

Largemouth Bass●●●●○

Weeds, docks and wood in the shallows.

Muskellunge●●●○○

Big baits along weed edges and rock bars, best in fall.

Walleye●●●○○

Points, flats and reefs at low light. Jigs and live bait early, crankbaits and crawler harnesses in summer.

Bluegill●●●○○

Weed beds and shallow flats in late spring.

Boat launches

2 launch sites. Fees and hours change, so confirm before you go.

Busse Lake Boating CenterRamp
Trailer-friendly launch ramps near the boathouse; rental canoes, kayaks, rowboats and paddleboats April to OctoberDirections ↗
More public accessPublic
See the IDNR or lake website for all ramps and feesDirections ↗

Size & creel limits

Minimum size and daily limit for each species in Busse Lake are published by the state. Look up the current size and creel limits for this lake directly: Illinois Department of Natural Resources ↗

Rules change, so confirm current limits with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources before you fish.

Bait & tackle nearby

Closest shops to the lake and its boat launches. Call ahead for live bait and hours.

Busse Lake Boating Center bait shop (boathouse)Nearby
Ned Brown Forest Preserve, Busse Woods, Cook County, IL708-557-4000 Directions ↗

Search more bait shops near Busse Lake ↗

Local tips

The deepest water is in the main and south pools.
Rowboats can be rented with or without trolling motors if you have no boat.
The boathouse sells bait and tackle in season.

Cedar LakeJackson County · 1,750 acres

City reservoir

Cedar Lake

Jackson County, Illinois

Cedar Lake is a 1,750-acre lake about 5 miles southwest of Carbondale in Jackson County, with its northern shoreline owned by the City of Carbondale. The southern shoreline is bordered by Shawnee National Forest.

Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors.

Surface area1,750 acres

Max depth60 ft

Shoreline—

Boat motors10 hp limit

Species

Fishery rating out of 5.

Largemouth Bass●●●●●

Weeds, docks and wood in the shallows.

Crappie●●●●●

Brush piles, docks and standing timber. Minnows or small jigs.

Redear Sunfish●●●●●

Docks, weeds and shallow flats in late spring. Small hooks with worms or crickets.

Channel Catfish●●●●○

Cut bait and nightcrawlers on flats and creek mouths in the evening.

Bluegill●●●○○

Weed beds and shallow flats in late spring.

Striped Bass●●●○○

Follow shad schools. Live bait, umbrella rigs and topwater.

Boat launches

3 launch sites. Fees and hours change, so confirm before you go.

City of Carbondale boat areaPublic
Cedar Creek Road off Old Route 51 SouthDirections ↗
Boat Dock Road rampRamp
South of Murphysboro off State Route 127Directions ↗
More public accessPublic
See the IDNR or lake website for all ramps and feesDirections ↗

Size & creel limits

Special rules for this lake, confirmed from official state regulations. Minimum size and daily limit.

Species	Min size	Daily limit
Bass Max 5 under 14 in and 1 over 18 in	14-18 in protected slot	6 / day
Crappie		25 / day
Striped Bass	17 in	3 / day

Other species in this lake: look up the limits at Illinois Department of Natural Resources ↗

Verified October 2026. Rules change, so confirm current limits with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources before you fish.

Bait & tackle nearby

No shops listed yet for this lake. Use the search link below.

Search more bait shops near Cedar Lake ↗

Local tips

Tournament permits are required from the City of Carbondale (618-549-8441); 20-boat maximum
Bass protected slot 14-18 inches in effect
Two poles max, 2 hooks or lures per pole

Clinton LakeDeWitt County · 4,900 acres

Power plant cooling lake

Clinton Lake

DeWitt County, Illinois

A power-plant cooling lake near Clinton. Warm water from the plant keeps parts of it open and fishing all winter. It's known for bass, walleye, muskie and catfish.

Air temp in Dewitt, IL Loading current temperature…

Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors.

Current air temperature at Clinton Lake (National Weather Service) ↗

Surface area4,900 acres

Max depth48 ft

Shoreline—

Boat motorsCheck local rules

Species

Fishery rating out of 5.

Largemouth Bass●●●●○

Weeds, docks and wood in the shallows.

Channel Catfish●●●●○

Cut bait and nightcrawlers on flats and creek mouths in the evening.

Walleye●●●○○

Points, flats and reefs at low light. Jigs and live bait early, crankbaits and crawler harnesses in summer.

Muskellunge●●●○○

Big baits along weed edges and rock bars, best in fall.

Crappie●●●○○

Brush piles, docks and standing timber. Minnows or small jigs.

Boat launches

1 launch sites. Fees and hours change, so confirm before you go.

More public accessPublic
See the IDNR or lake website for all ramps and feesDirections ↗

Size & creel limits

Special rules for this lake, confirmed from official state regulations. Minimum size and daily limit.

Species	Min size	Daily limit
Largemouth Bass	16 in	3 / day combined
Smallmouth Bass	16 in	3 / day combined
Channel Catfish Blue or channel	See Illinois rules book ↗	10 / day
White Bass No more than 3 may be 17 in or longer	See Illinois rules book ↗	10 / day
Wiper No more than 3 may be 17 in or longer	See Illinois rules book ↗	10 / day
Walleye	18 in	3 / day
Crappie No more than 10 may be 10 in or longer, and 5 under 10 in	See Illinois rules book ↗	15 / day

Other species in this lake: look up the limits at Illinois Department of Natural Resources ↗

Verified October 2026. Rules change, so confirm current limits with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources before you fish.

Bait & tackle nearby

Closest shops to the lake and its boat launches. Call ahead for live bait and hours.

Salt Creek Bait ShopNearby
ClintonDirections ↗
Green Acres Bait ShopNearby
15283 State Highway 10, Clinton(217) 935-9015 Directions ↗
Barefoot Cove MarinaNearby
6599 Sailboat Rd, Weldon(217) 736-2727 Directions ↗

Search more bait shops near Clinton Lake ↗

Local tips

The warm-water discharge area fishes well in winter.
Clinton Lake State Recreation Area has launches.
Hybrid striped bass are also stocked.

View on interactive map

Zoom and pan on a street, satellite or terrain map. Red pins are boat launches.

Coffeen LakeMontgomery County · 1,100 acres

Power-plant cooling lake

Coffeen Lake

Montgomery County, Illinois

Coffeen Lake is a roughly 1,100-acre reservoir in southeast Montgomery County, about 7 miles southeast of Hillsboro, managed as a state fish and wildlife area. It is known as a popular largemouth bass tournament lake with large flathead catfish and a developing blue catfish fishery.

Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors.

Surface area1,100 acres

Max depth58 ft

Shoreline47.9 mi

Boat motors25 hp limit

Species

Fishery rating out of 5.

Largemouth Bass●●●●●

Weeds, docks and wood in the shallows.

Flathead Catfish●●●●●

Live bait around wood and rock at night.

Crappie●●●●○

Brush piles, docks and standing timber. Minnows or small jigs.

Channel Catfish●●●○○

Cut bait and nightcrawlers on flats and creek mouths in the evening.

Blue Catfish●●●○○

Deep channel edges. Fresh cut shad. Big fish in winter.

Boat launches

3 launch sites. Fees and hours change, so confirm before you go.

Boat ramp 1Ramp
Concrete ramp, Coffeen Lake SFWADirections ↗
Boat ramp 2Ramp
Concrete ramp, Coffeen Lake SFWADirections ↗
More public accessPublic
See the IDNR or lake website for all ramps and feesDirections ↗

Size & creel limits

Minimum size and daily limit for each species in Coffeen Lake are published by the state. Look up the current size and creel limits for this lake directly: Illinois Department of Natural Resources ↗

Rules change, so confirm current limits with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources before you fish.

Bait & tackle nearby

No shops listed yet for this lake. Use the search link below.

Search more bait shops near Coffeen Lake ↗

Local tips

Larger motors may be used only for loading/unloading at the ramp at no-wake speed within 150 feet
Camping and picnicking are available; zebra mussels present
Largemouth bass special regulation: 15 in minimum, 3 per day

Crab Orchard LakeWilliamson County · 6,965 acres

Federal refuge reservoir

Crab Orchard Lake

Williamson County, Illinois

Crab Orchard Lake is a 6,965-acre impoundment in Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge between Marion and Carbondale in Williamson County. It is known for white bass, crappie, and channel catfish fishing.

Air temp in Carterville, IL Loading current temperature…

Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors.

Current air temperature at Crab Orchard Lake (National Weather Service) ↗

Surface area6,965 acres

Max depth—

Shoreline—

Boat motorsCheck local rules

Species

Fishery rating out of 5.

White Bass●●●●●

Schools chasing shad in open water, and spring river runs.

Crappie●●●●○

Brush piles, docks and standing timber. Minnows or small jigs.

Channel Catfish●●●●●

Cut bait and nightcrawlers on flats and creek mouths in the evening.

Largemouth Bass●●●●○

Weeds, docks and wood in the shallows.

Bluegill●●●○○

Weed beds and shallow flats in late spring.

Boat launches

1 launch sites. Fees and hours change, so confirm before you go.

More public accessPublic
See the IDNR or lake website for all ramps and feesDirections ↗

Size & creel limits

Minimum size and daily limit for each species in Crab Orchard Lake are published by the state. Look up the current size and creel limits for this lake directly: Illinois Department of Natural Resources ↗

Rules change, so confirm current limits with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources before you fish.

Bait & tackle nearby

No shops listed yet for this lake. Use the search link below.

Search more bait shops near Crab Orchard Lake ↗

Local tips

A user permit is required to access the Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge (visitor center 618-997-3344)
Two poles max, 2 hooks or lures per pole
Trotlines, jugs, hand fishing and bow fishing are allowed with specific restrictions

View on interactive map

Zoom and pan on a street, satellite or terrain map. Red pins are boat launches.

Dawson LakeMcLean County · 150 acres

County park lake

Dawson Lake

McLean County, Illinois

Dawson Lake is a lake of just under 150 acres in McLean County, in the same park area as Evergreen Lake at COMLARA. It is known for saugeye and channel catfish.

Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors.

Surface area150 acres

Max depth—

Shoreline—

Boat motors10 hp limit, idle speed and no wake

Species

Fishery rating out of 5.

Saugeye●●●●○

Points, riprap and the dam area. Jigs in cold water, crankbaits in summer.

Channel Catfish●●●●○

Cut bait and nightcrawlers on flats and creek mouths in the evening.

Crappie●●●○○

Brush piles, docks and standing timber. Minnows or small jigs.

Largemouth Bass●●●○○

Listed as improving

Bluegill●●○○○

Weed beds and shallow flats in late spring.

Boat launches

2 launch sites. Fees and hours change, so confirm before you go.

Dawson Lake boat rampRamp
Boat ramps are available; watercraft need a McLean County registration decalDirections ↗
More public accessPublic
See the IDNR or lake website for all ramps and feesDirections ↗

Size & creel limits

Minimum size and daily limit for each species in Dawson Lake are published by the state. Look up the current size and creel limits for this lake directly: Illinois Department of Natural Resources ↗

Rules change, so confirm current limits with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources before you fish.

Bait & tackle nearby

No shops listed yet for this lake. Use the search link below.

Search more bait shops near Dawson Lake ↗

Local tips

Average depth is about 10 feet, so fish near any drop or cover.
Get a watercraft decal before launching; call 309-434-6770.
Kayaks work well on a lake with an idle-speed rule.

Devil's Kitchen LakeWilliamson County · 810 acres

Reservoir

Devil's Kitchen Lake

Williamson County, Illinois

Devil's Kitchen Lake is an 810-acre lake on Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge in Williamson County, Southern Illinois. It is known for stocked trout and clear, deep water.

Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors.

Surface area810 acres

Max depth90 ft

Shoreline24 mi

Boat motors10 hp limit; no wake within 150 feet of shore, ramps and swim areas

Species

Fishery rating out of 5.

Largemouth Bass●●●●○

Weeds, docks and wood in the shallows.

Bluegill●●●●○

Weed beds and shallow flats in late spring.

Crappie●●●○○

Brush piles, docks and standing timber. Minnows or small jigs.

Rainbow Trout●●●○○

Stocked

Brown Trout●●●○○

Stocked

Channel Catfish●●●○○

Cut bait and nightcrawlers on flats and creek mouths in the evening.

Boat launches

3 launch sites. Fees and hours change, so confirm before you go.

Line 6 boat rampRamp
Boat ramp on the refuge; the area south of it is no-wakeDirections ↗
Shore fishingPublic
Open to fishing by boat and from shore year-roundDirections ↗
More public accessPublic
See the IDNR or lake website for all ramps and feesDirections ↗

Size & creel limits

Minimum size and daily limit for each species in Devil's Kitchen Lake are published by the state. Look up the current size and creel limits for this lake directly: Illinois Department of Natural Resources ↗

Rules change, so confirm current limits with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources before you fish.

Bait & tackle nearby

Closest shops to the lake and its boat launches. Call ahead for live bait and hours.

Just Add Water Bait, Tackle & More LLCNearby
12092 Lake of Egypt Road, Marion, IL 62959(618) 964-1944 Directions ↗

Search more bait shops near Devil's Kitchen Lake ↗

Local tips

Depth reaches 90 feet, so trout can be deep in warm months.
Stay under 10 hp and keep to no-wake near shore and the ramp.
Call the refuge at 618-997-3344 with questions on rules.

Dolan LakeHamilton County · 71 acres

State fish and wildlife area lake

Dolan Lake

Hamilton County, Illinois

Dolan Lake is a 75-acre lake at Hamilton County State Fish and Wildlife Area in Hamilton County. It is known for bass, bluegill, crappie and catfish.

Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors.

Surface area71 acres

Max depth18 ft

Shoreline3 mi

Boat motors10 hp limit

Species

Fishery rating out of 5.

Largemouth Bass●●●●○

Weeds, docks and wood in the shallows.

Bluegill●●●●○

Weed beds and shallow flats in late spring.

Crappie●●●○○

Brush piles, docks and standing timber. Minnows or small jigs.

Channel Catfish●●●○○

Cut bait and nightcrawlers on flats and creek mouths in the evening.

Boat launches

2 launch sites. Fees and hours change, so confirm before you go.

Dolan Lake boat rampRamp
Launching ramp at Hamilton County State Fish and Wildlife AreaDirections ↗
More public accessPublic
See the IDNR or lake website for all ramps and feesDirections ↗

Size & creel limits

Minimum size and daily limit for each species in Dolan Lake are published by the state. Look up the current size and creel limits for this lake directly: Illinois Department of Natural Resources ↗

Rules change, so confirm current limits with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources before you fish.

Bait & tackle nearby

No shops listed yet for this lake. Use the search link below.

Search more bait shops near Dolan Lake ↗

Local tips

Maximum depth is about 18 feet, so most fish are in shallow to mid water.
Motors are limited to 10 hp.
Check IDNR for current site rules before you go.

Dutchman LakeJohnson County · 118 acres

National forest lake

Dutchman Lake

Johnson County, Illinois

Dutchman Lake is a 118-acre lake in Shawnee National Forest in Johnson County, reached by Forest Road 400 near Vienna. It is known for bass, catfish and panfish.

Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors.

Surface area118 acres

Max depth—

Shoreline—

Boat motors10 hp limit

Species

Fishery rating out of 5.

Largemouth Bass●●●●○

Weeds, docks and wood in the shallows.

Channel Catfish●●●○○

Cut bait and nightcrawlers on flats and creek mouths in the evening.

Bluegill●●●○○

Weed beds and shallow flats in late spring.

Boat launches

3 launch sites. Fees and hours change, so confirm before you go.

Dutchman Lake gravel boat launchRamp
Gravel launch at the end of Forest Road 400; no restrooms or drinking waterDirections ↗
ShorelinePublic
Bank fishing availableDirections ↗
More public accessPublic
See the IDNR or lake website for all ramps and feesDirections ↗

Size & creel limits

Minimum size and daily limit for each species in Dutchman Lake are published by the state. Look up the current size and creel limits for this lake directly: Illinois Department of Natural Resources ↗

Rules change, so confirm current limits with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources before you fish.

Bait & tackle nearby

No shops listed yet for this lake. Use the search link below.

Search more bait shops near Dutchman Lake ↗

Local tips

Bring water and supplies; there are no restrooms or potable water.
Live bait and stores are in nearby Vienna.
Anglers may use up to 2 poles with 2 hooks or lures each.

East Fork LakeRichland County · 935 acres

Reservoir

East Fork Lake

Richland County, Illinois

East Fork Lake is a city water supply reservoir about 1 mile north of Olney in Richland County. It was built in 1971 and is known for walleye, largemouth bass and crappie.

Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors.

Surface area935 acres

Max depth40 ft

Shoreline25 mi

Boat motorsCheck local rules

Species

Fishery rating out of 5.

Walleye●●●●○

Stocked each year; most legal fish run 18 to 25 inches

Largemouth Bass●●●●○

Most keepers are 15 to 20 inches, with a few over 6 pounds

Crappie●●●●○

White crappie mostly 8 to 11 inches

Channel Catfish●●●○○

Numbers are low but recovering from stocking

Bluegill●●●○○

Shad crowding keeps most fish at 5 to 7 inches

Boat launches

2 launch sites. Fees and hours change, so confirm before you go.

East Fork Boat RampRamp
Public boat ramp with kayak rentals and handicap access. City of Olney boat sticker required.Directions ↗
More public accessPublic
See the IDNR or lake website for all ramps and feesDirections ↗

Size & creel limits

Special rules for this lake, confirmed from official state regulations. Minimum size and daily limit.

Species	Min size	Daily limit
Largemouth Bass Applies to largemouth and smallmouth	15 in	6 / day
Smallmouth Bass	15 in	6 / day
Channel Catfish	See Illinois rules book ↗	6 / day
Bluegill Bluegill and redear combined	See Illinois rules book ↗	25 / day
Crappie White, black or hybrid	See Illinois rules book ↗	25 / day

Other species in this lake: look up the limits at Illinois Department of Natural Resources ↗

Verified October 2026. Rules change, so confirm current limits with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources before you fish.

Bait & tackle nearby

No shops listed yet for this lake. Use the search link below.

Search more bait shops near East Fork Lake ↗

Local tips

Buy the City of Olney boat sticker before you launch.
Bass must be 15 inches or longer to keep, so bring a ruler.
Curly-leaf pondweed is spreading, so clean and dry your boat and gear after each trip.

Evergreen LakeMcLean County · 925 acres

Reservoir

Evergreen Lake

McLean County, Illinois

Evergreen Lake is a reservoir in Comlara County Park, about 15 miles north of Bloomington in McLean County. It was built in 1970 and is known for saugeye and muskie.

Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors.

Surface area925 acres

Max depth50 ft

Shoreline—

Boat motors10 hp limit

Species

Fishery rating out of 5.

Saugeye●●●●●

Stocked by IDNR; 18 inch minimum

Muskellunge●●●●●

48 inch minimum, 1 per day

Crappie●●●●○

Rated good by IDNR

Largemouth Bass●●●○○

Rated fair; 15 inch minimum

Boat launches

2 launch sites. Fees and hours change, so confirm before you go.

Comlara Park boat launchesRamp
Two boat launches and one canoe launch. County watercraft registration required.Directions ↗
More public accessPublic
See the IDNR or lake website for all ramps and feesDirections ↗

Size & creel limits

Special rules for this lake, confirmed from official state regulations. Minimum size and daily limit.

Species	Min size	Daily limit
Largemouth Bass Applies to largemouth and smallmouth	15 in	3 / day
Smallmouth Bass	15 in	3 / day
Muskellunge	48 in	1 / day
Walleye Also applies to sauger and saugeye	18 in	3 / day
Saugeye	18 in	3 / day
Crappie No more than 5 fish 10 inches or longer	See Illinois rules book ↗	15 / day

Other species in this lake: look up the limits at Illinois Department of Natural Resources ↗

Verified October 2026. Rules change, so confirm current limits with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources before you fish.

Bait & tackle nearby

No shops listed yet for this lake. Use the search link below.

Search more bait shops near Evergreen Lake ↗

Local tips

Register your boat with McLean County before launching.
Trotlines, jugs and bank poles are not allowed.
Live bait over 8 inches must be on a quick set rig.

Forbes LakeMarion County · 525 acres

State park lake

Forbes Lake

Marion County, Illinois

Forbes Lake is a 585 acre reservoir inside Stephen A. Forbes State Park, about 13 miles northeast of Salem in Marion County. It was built in 1963 and is known for bluegill, catfish and bass.

Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors.

Surface area525 acres

Max depth31 ft

Shoreline18 mi

Boat motorsCheck local rules

Species

Fishery rating out of 5.

Channel Catfish●●●●○

Most run 1 to 5 pounds, some over 8

Bluegill●●●●○

Most fish are 5 to 7 inches

Largemouth Bass●●●○○

Most bass over 14 inches weigh 1.3 to 4 pounds

Saugeye●●●○○

Stocked yearly

Crappie●●●○○

White crappie are plentiful but small

Wiper●●●○○

Most over 17 inches weigh 2 to 6 pounds

Boat launches

2 launch sites. Fees and hours change, so confirm before you go.

Forbes State Park boat rampsRamp
Public boat ramps inside the state park. Handicap access available.Directions ↗
More public accessPublic
See the IDNR or lake website for all ramps and feesDirections ↗

Size & creel limits

Special rules for this lake, confirmed from official state regulations. Minimum size and daily limit.

Species	Min size	Daily limit
Largemouth Bass Applies to largemouth and smallmouth	14 in	6 / day
Smallmouth Bass	14 in	6 / day
Channel Catfish	See Illinois rules book ↗	6 / day
Striped Bass Also applies to white and hybrid striped bass	17 in	3 / day
Wiper	17 in	3 / day
Crappie No daily limit, but no more than 10 fish 8 inches or longer	See Illinois rules book ↗

Other species in this lake: look up the limits at Illinois Department of Natural Resources ↗

Verified October 2026. Rules change, so confirm current limits with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources before you fish.

Bait & tackle nearby

No shops listed yet for this lake. Use the search link below.

Search more bait shops near Forbes Lake ↗

Local tips

Release crappie under 8 inches. The lake strongly encourages it.
Parts of the lake are a waterfowl refuge or hunting area, so check posted areas.
Bass must be 14 inches or longer to keep.

Fox Chain O'LakesLake & McHenry Counties · 7,100 acres

Chain of 15 lakes (Chain O'Lakes State Park)

Fox Chain O'Lakes

Lake & McHenry Counties, Illinois

A chain of connected glacial lakes on the Fox River northwest of Chicago. It's the busiest inland recreational waterway per acre in the U.S. and has a strong muskie, walleye and bass fishery.

Air temp in Fox Lake, IL Loading current temperature…

Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors.

Current air temperature at Fox Chain O'Lakes (National Weather Service) ↗

Surface area7,100 acres

Max depth—

Shoreline488 mi

Boat motorsCheck local rules

Species

Fishery rating out of 5.

Largemouth Bass●●●●○

Weeds, docks and wood in the shallows.

Walleye●●●○○

Points, flats and reefs at low light. Jigs and live bait early, crankbaits and crawler harnesses in summer.

Muskellunge●●●○○

Big baits along weed edges and rock bars, best in fall.

Crappie●●●○○

Brush piles, docks and standing timber. Minnows or small jigs.

Channel Catfish●●●○○

Cut bait and nightcrawlers on flats and creek mouths in the evening.

Boat launches

1 launch sites. Fees and hours change, so confirm before you go.

More public accessPublic
See the IDNR or lake website for all ramps and feesDirections ↗

Size & creel limits

Special rules for this lake, confirmed from official state regulations. Minimum size and daily limit.

Species	Min size	Daily limit
Largemouth Bass No more than 3 may be smallmouth	14 in	6 / day combined
Smallmouth Bass All smallmouth must be released Apr 1-Jun 15	14 in	6 / day combined
Muskellunge	48 in	1 / day
Northern Pike	24 in	3 / day
Walleye No possession of 18 to under 24 in; only 1 may be 24 in or longer	14 in	4 / day
Flathead Catfish No more than 1 of 28 in or longer	See Illinois rules book ↗	3 / day

Other species in this lake: look up the limits at Illinois Department of Natural Resources ↗

Verified October 2026. Rules change, so confirm current limits with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources before you fish.

Bait & tackle nearby

Closest shops to the lake and its boat launches. Call ahead for live bait and hours.

Gill'sAt lake
Directions ↗
Triangle Sports & Marine1.5 mi
23480 W Grass Lake Rd, Antioch(847) 395-0813 Directions ↗
Bait Shop4.5 mi
Directions ↗

Search more bait shops near Fox Chain O'Lakes ↗

Local tips

Boat traffic is very heavy in summer. Fish early and on weekdays.
No-wake zones and Fox Waterway Agency stickers apply.
Each lake in the chain fishes differently.

View on interactive map

Zoom and pan on a street, satellite or terrain map. Red pins are boat launches; blue pins are bait shops nearby.

Frank Holten LakesSt. Clair County · 180 acres

State park lake

Frank Holten Lakes

St. Clair County, Illinois

Frank Holten State Recreation Area is in East St. Louis in St. Clair County, with Whispering Willow Lake (79 acres) and Grand Marais Lake (97 acres). It is an urban fishing spot in view of the Gateway Arch.

Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors.

Surface area180 acres

Max depth—

Shoreline5 mi

Boat motors10 hp limit

Species

Fishery rating out of 5.

Largemouth Bass●●●○○

Stocked; 14 inch minimum

Channel Catfish●●●○○

Stocked each year

Bluegill●●○○○

Stocked per the park page

Boat launches

3 launch sites. Fees and hours change, so confirm before you go.

Frank Holten boat rampsRamp
Boat fishing allowed with a 10 hp limit. Park closes at 8:30 PM.Directions ↗
Bank fishingPublic
Bank fishing is allowed at both lakes.Directions ↗
More public accessPublic
See the IDNR or lake website for all ramps and feesDirections ↗

Size & creel limits

Special rules for this lake, confirmed from official state regulations. Minimum size and daily limit.

Species	Min size	Daily limit
Largemouth Bass Applies to largemouth and smallmouth	14 in	6 / day
Smallmouth Bass	14 in	6 / day
Channel Catfish	See Illinois rules book ↗	6 / day

Other species in this lake: look up the limits at Illinois Department of Natural Resources ↗

Verified October 2026. Rules change, so confirm current limits with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources before you fish.

Bait & tackle nearby

No shops listed yet for this lake. Use the search link below.

Search more bait shops near Frank Holten Lakes ↗

Local tips

The park closes at 8:30 PM, so plan to be off the water by then.
Bass must be 14 inches or longer to keep.
No alcohol is allowed in the park.

Glenn Shoals LakeMontgomery County · 1,200 acres

City reservoir

Glenn Shoals Lake

Montgomery County, Illinois

Glenn Shoals Lake is a roughly 1,085-acre lake about 1.25 miles north of Hillsboro in Montgomery County, cooperatively managed by IDNR and the City of Hillsboro. It is known for channel catfish, white crappie, and wiper fishing.

Air temp in Irving, IL Loading current temperature…

Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors.

Current air temperature at Glenn Shoals Lake (National Weather Service) ↗

Surface area1,200 acres

Max depth—

Shoreline—

Boat motorsUnlimited horsepower

Species

Fishery rating out of 5.

Channel Catfish●●●●○

Cut bait and nightcrawlers on flats and creek mouths in the evening.

Crappie●●●●○

Brush piles, docks and standing timber. Minnows or small jigs.

Largemouth Bass●●●○○

Weeds, docks and wood in the shallows.

Wiper●●●○○

Hybrid striped bass. Chase surface-feeding schools and points with wind.

Bluegill●●●○○

Weed beds and shallow flats in late spring.

Boat launches

3 launch sites. Fees and hours change, so confirm before you go.

North Marina rampMarina
Concrete boat rampDirections ↗
South Marina rampMarina
Concrete boat rampDirections ↗
More public accessPublic
See the IDNR or lake website for all ramps and feesDirections ↗

Size & creel limits

Minimum size and daily limit for each species in Glenn Shoals Lake are published by the state. Look up the current size and creel limits for this lake directly: Illinois Department of Natural Resources ↗

Rules change, so confirm current limits with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources before you fish.

Bait & tackle nearby

No shops listed yet for this lake. Use the search link below.

Search more bait shops near Glenn Shoals Lake ↗

Local tips

Two poles max, 2 hooks or lures per pole
Water skiing is permitted; swimming is not allowed
Camping available through Sherwood Forest Campground

View on interactive map

Zoom and pan on a street, satellite or terrain map. Red pins are boat launches.

Governor Bond LakeBond County · 775 acres

Reservoir

Governor Bond Lake

Bond County, Illinois

Governor Bond Lake is a 775 acre city water supply lake just north of Greenville in Bond County. It is known for bluegill, catfish and a few trophy flatheads.

Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors.

Surface area775 acres

Max depth—

Shoreline—

Boat motors300 hp boats, 160 hp personal watercraft

Species

Fishery rating out of 5.

Bluegill●●●●●

Rated excellent in the 2023 survey

Channel Catfish●●●●○

Rated very good

Flathead Catfish●●●●○

Fish over 40 pounds reported

Largemouth Bass●●●○○

Numbers rising since 2021

Crappie●●●○○

White and black crappie

Wiper●●○○○

Stocked every year

Boat launches

3 launch sites. Fees and hours change, so confirm before you go.

Main rampRamp
Concrete ramp at the southwest end off Red Ball Trail. Marina with gas nearby.Directions ↗
East Lake Drive rampRamp
Concrete ramp on the southeast side off East Lake Drive.Directions ↗
More public accessPublic
See the IDNR or lake website for all ramps and feesDirections ↗

Size & creel limits

Special rules for this lake, confirmed from official state regulations. Minimum size and daily limit.

Species	Min size	Daily limit
Largemouth Bass Applies to largemouth and smallmouth	15 in	3 / day
Smallmouth Bass	15 in	3 / day
Striped Bass Also applies to white and hybrid striped bass	17 in	3 / day
Wiper	17 in	3 / day
Crappie White, black or hybrid	See Illinois rules book ↗	25 / day

Other species in this lake: look up the limits at Illinois Department of Natural Resources ↗

Verified October 2026. Rules change, so confirm current limits with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources before you fish.

Bait & tackle nearby

No shops listed yet for this lake. Use the search link below.

Search more bait shops near Governor Bond Lake ↗

Local tips

Buy the city boat sticker at Greenville City Hall (404 South 3rd Street).
Shore access is limited, so a boat helps.
Attend your jugs at all times.

Heidecke LakeGrundy County · 1,955 acres

Former power-plant cooling lake

Heidecke Lake

Grundy County, Illinois

Heidecke Lake is a former cooling reservoir of about 1,955 acres southeast of Morris in Grundy County, managed as a state fish and wildlife area by IDNR. It is known for bass, striped bass hybrids, walleye and muskellunge fishing from a three-lane concrete ramp.

Air temp in Morris, IL Loading current temperature…

Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors.

Current air temperature at Heidecke Lake (National Weather Service) ↗

Surface area1,955 acres

Max depth—

Shoreline—

Boat motorsUnlimited horsepower (40 mph max speed except no-wake areas; gasoline motor required as main propulsion)

Species

Fishery rating out of 5.

Largemouth Bass●●●●○

Weeds, docks and wood in the shallows.

Smallmouth Bass●●●○○

Rock, gravel and points. Tubes, jerkbaits and drop-shots.

Walleye●●●○○

Points, flats and reefs at low light. Jigs and live bait early, crankbaits and crawler harnesses in summer.

Muskellunge●●○○○

Big baits along weed edges and rock bars, best in fall.

White Bass●●●○○

Schools chasing shad in open water, and spring river runs.

Channel Catfish●●●○○

Cut bait and nightcrawlers on flats and creek mouths in the evening.

Boat launches

2 launch sites. Fees and hours change, so confirm before you go.

Heidecke Lake boat rampRamp
Three-lane concrete ramp, 100+ vehicle/trailer parking, handicap accessible, no launch fee; 5010 N. Jugtown Rd, MorrisDirections ↗
More public accessPublic
See the IDNR or lake website for all ramps and feesDirections ↗

Size & creel limits

Minimum size and daily limit for each species in Heidecke Lake are published by the state. Look up the current size and creel limits for this lake directly: Illinois Department of Natural Resources ↗

Rules change, so confirm current limits with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources before you fish.

Bait & tackle nearby

Closest shops to the lake and its boat launches. Call ahead for live bait and hours.

Jon's Bait & Tackle ShopNearby
430 Rice Rd, South Wilmington(815) 237-2822 Directions ↗

Search more bait shops near Heidecke Lake ↗

Local tips

Pole-and-line fishing only, two poles per angler; sub-legal fish must be released immediately.
Boat fishing closes when winds reach 25 mph or higher; bank fishing is available at the Bank Fishing Area off E. Collins Rd.
Season opens April 1 and closes 10 days before waterfowl season; boating access 6 a.m. to sunset.

View on interactive map

Zoom and pan on a street, satellite or terrain map. Red pins are boat launches; blue pins are bait shops nearby.

Homer LakeChampaign County · 80 acres

Reservoir

Homer Lake

Champaign County, Illinois

Homer Lake is an 81 acre lake in the Champaign County Forest Preserve District, about 2 miles northwest of Homer. It was built in 1969 and is known for channel catfish and largemouth bass.

Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors.

Surface area80 acres

Max depth24 ft

Shoreline—

Boat motorsElectric motors only (gas motors allowed only to launch or load)

Species

Fishery rating out of 5.

Channel Catfish●●●●●

IDNR stocks 8 inch catfish each year

Largemouth Bass●●●●●

Strong fishery; 14 inch minimum

Saugeye●●●●○

Rated good

Bluegill●●●○○

Plentiful but small

Crappie●●●○○

White crappie improving, black crappie poor

Boat launches

2 launch sites. Fees and hours change, so confirm before you go.

Homer Lake boat rampsRamp
Three boat ramps and a canoe and kayak launch. Kayak rentals available. No launch fee.Directions ↗
More public accessPublic
See the IDNR or lake website for all ramps and feesDirections ↗

Size & creel limits

Special rules for this lake, confirmed from official state regulations. Minimum size and daily limit.

Species	Min size	Daily limit
Largemouth Bass Applies to largemouth and smallmouth	14 in	6 / day
Smallmouth Bass	14 in	6 / day
Channel Catfish	See Illinois rules book ↗	6 / day
Walleye Also applies to sauger and saugeye	14 in	6 / day
Saugeye	14 in	6 / day

Other species in this lake: look up the limits at Illinois Department of Natural Resources ↗

Verified October 2026. Rules change, so confirm current limits with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources before you fish.

Bait & tackle nearby

No shops listed yet for this lake. Use the search link below.

Search more bait shops near Homer Lake ↗

Local tips

Use an electric motor on the water.
Keep bass 14 inches or longer.
Bluegill are plentiful but small, so use small baits.

Horseshoe Lake (Madison County)Madison County · 2,430 acres

State park floodplain lake

Horseshoe Lake (Madison County)

Madison County, Illinois

Horseshoe Lake is an old floodplain lake formed from an abandoned river channel within Horseshoe Lake State Park near Granite City in Madison County. The lake is managed by IDNR for fishing and waterfowl hunting, with boat fishing allowed except during waterfowl season.

Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors.

Surface area2,430 acres

Max depth—

Shoreline—

Boat motors50 hp limit

Species

Fishery rating out of 5.

Largemouth Bass●●●○○

Weeds, docks and wood in the shallows.

Crappie●●●○○

Brush piles, docks and standing timber. Minnows or small jigs.

Bluegill●●●○○

Weed beds and shallow flats in late spring.

Channel Catfish●●●○○

Cut bait and nightcrawlers on flats and creek mouths in the evening.

Boat launches

2 launch sites. Fees and hours change, so confirm before you go.

Horseshoe Lake State Park main boat rampRamp
North shore inside the park; IDNR lists two public ramps; 3321 Hwy 111, Granite CityDirections ↗
More public accessPublic
See the IDNR or lake website for all ramps and feesDirections ↗

Size & creel limits

Minimum size and daily limit for each species in Horseshoe Lake (Madison County) are published by the state. Look up the current size and creel limits for this lake directly: Illinois Department of Natural Resources ↗

Rules change, so confirm current limits with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources before you fish.

Bait & tackle nearby

No shops listed yet for this lake. Use the search link below.

Search more bait shops near Horseshoe Lake (Madison County) ↗

Local tips

Two pole-and-line fishing only; boat fishing is not allowed during waterfowl season.
Trotlines must be set within 300 feet of shore.
The Stock Pond closes for a fishing derby on Sept 17-19, 2026 (check park for later dates).

Johnson Sauk LakeHenry County · 58 acres

State park lake

Johnson Sauk Lake

Henry County, Illinois

Johnson Sauk Trail Lake is a 58-acre lake in Johnson Sauk Trail State Recreation Area in Henry County, about 5 miles north of Kewanee. It is the centerpiece of the park and offers fishing and boating.

Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors.

Surface area58 acres

Max depth21 ft

Shoreline2.5 mi

Boat motorsCheck local rules

Species

Fishery rating out of 5.

Boat launches

2 launch sites. Fees and hours change, so confirm before you go.

Johnson Sauk Trail State Recreation Area lakePublic
IDNR lists fishing and boating on the lake; boat rentals are available. Ramp location not confirmed.Directions ↗
More public accessPublic
See the IDNR or lake website for all ramps and feesDirections ↗

Size & creel limits

Minimum size and daily limit for each species in Johnson Sauk Lake are published by the state. Look up the current size and creel limits for this lake directly: Illinois Department of Natural Resources ↗

Rules change, so confirm current limits with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources before you fish.

Bait & tackle nearby

No shops listed yet for this lake. Use the search link below.

Search more bait shops near Johnson Sauk Lake ↗

Local tips

A second small pond of about 3 acres near the round barn also offers fishing.
Call the park office at 309-853-2425 for current boat and fishing conditions.
Bring your own bait, since no nearby shop was confirmed.

Jones LakeSaline County · 105 acres

State park lake

Jones Lake

Saline County, Illinois

Glen O. Jones Lake is the main lake at Saline County State Fish and Wildlife Area near Equality in Saline County. It has a public boat ramp and is fished for bass, panfish and catfish.

Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors.

Surface area105 acres

Max depth35 ft

Shoreline2.7 mi

Boat motors10 h.p. limit

Species

Fishery rating out of 5.

Largemouth Bass●●●○○

Weeds, docks and wood in the shallows.

Bluegill●●●○○

Weed beds and shallow flats in late spring.

Redear Sunfish●●●○○

Shellcracker. Beds in spring and deep shell bars in summer. Red worms on the bottom.

Crappie●●●○○

Brush piles, docks and standing timber. Minnows or small jigs.

Channel Catfish●●●○○

Cut bait and nightcrawlers on flats and creek mouths in the evening.

Boat launches

2 launch sites. Fees and hours change, so confirm before you go.

Saline County SFWA boat rampRamp
One launch ramp and two docksDirections ↗
More public accessPublic
See the IDNR or lake website for all ramps and feesDirections ↗

Size & creel limits

Minimum size and daily limit for each species in Jones Lake are published by the state. Look up the current size and creel limits for this lake directly: Illinois Department of Natural Resources ↗

Rules change, so confirm current limits with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources before you fish.

Bait & tackle nearby

No shops listed yet for this lake. Use the search link below.

Search more bait shops near Jones Lake ↗

Local tips

Use a motor of 10 horsepower or less.
Bass, bluegill, redear, crappie and channel catfish are the listed catches.
Bring your own bait, since no nearby shop was confirmed.

Kickapoo LakesVermilion County · 184 acres

State park lake

Kickapoo Lakes

Vermilion County, Illinois

Kickapoo State Recreation Area sits in Vermilion County between Oakwood and Danville. It has 22 small lakes and ponds, with 12 launch ramps on nine of them, and electric motors only.

Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors.

Surface area184 acres

Max depth—

Shoreline—

Boat motorsElectric motors only

Species

Fishery rating out of 5.

Largemouth Bass●●●○○

Weeds, docks and wood in the shallows.

Bluegill●●●○○

Weed beds and shallow flats in late spring.

Crappie●●●○○

Brush piles, docks and standing timber. Minnows or small jigs.

Channel Catfish●●●○○

Cut bait and nightcrawlers on flats and creek mouths in the evening.

Redear Sunfish●●●○○

Shellcracker. Beds in spring and deep shell bars in summer. Red worms on the bottom.

Rainbow Trout●●●○○

Stocked in fall and spring; some survive the winter

Boat launches

2 launch sites. Fees and hours change, so confirm before you go.

Kickapoo SRA lake rampsRamp
12 launching ramps on nine of the lakesDirections ↗
More public accessPublic
See the IDNR or lake website for all ramps and feesDirections ↗

Size & creel limits

Minimum size and daily limit for each species in Kickapoo Lakes are published by the state. Look up the current size and creel limits for this lake directly: Illinois Department of Natural Resources ↗

Rules change, so confirm current limits with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources before you fish.

Bait & tackle nearby

No shops listed yet for this lake. Use the search link below.

Search more bait shops near Kickapoo Lakes ↗

Local tips

Only electric motors are allowed, so bring a trolling motor.
Rainbow trout are stocked in fall and spring, and some are caught through the ice.
The park concession sells bait. Call 217-446-8399 for seasonal hours.

Kinkaid LakeJackson County · 2,750 acres

State-managed reservoir

Kinkaid Lake

Jackson County, Illinois

Kinkaid Lake is a 2,750-acre reservoir near Murphysboro in Jackson County, managed as Kinkaid Lake State Fish and Wildlife Area. IDNR describes it as one of the premier muskie lakes in Illinois, with strong largemouth bass and crappie fisheries.

Air temp in Ava, IL Not available right now.

Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors.

Current air temperature at Kinkaid Lake (National Weather Service) ↗

Surface area2,750 acres

Max depth80 ft

Shoreline82 mi

Boat motorsUnlimited horsepower (50 mph daytime, 25 mph sunset to sunrise)

Species

Fishery rating out of 5.

Muskellunge●●●●●

Big baits along weed edges and rock bars, best in fall.

Largemouth Bass●●●●○

Weeds, docks and wood in the shallows.

Crappie●●●●○

Brush piles, docks and standing timber. Minnows or small jigs.

Channel Catfish●●●○○

Cut bait and nightcrawlers on flats and creek mouths in the evening.

Flathead Catfish●●●○○

Live bait around wood and rock at night.

Walleye●●○○○

Points, flats and reefs at low light. Jigs and live bait early, crankbaits and crawler harnesses in summer.

Boat launches

3 launch sites. Fees and hours change, so confirm before you go.

Mt. Joy (Main Marina) boat launchRamp
Free public launch owned by IDNR, Marina Rd, MurphysboroDirections ↗
Kinkaid Lake Villages MarinaMarina
2063 Marina Rd, Murphysboro; (618) 687-4914; fuel dock April 1 - Oct 31Directions ↗
More public accessPublic
See the IDNR or lake website for all ramps and feesDirections ↗

Size & creel limits

Special rules for this lake, confirmed from official state regulations. Minimum size and daily limit.

Species	Min size	Daily limit
Largemouth/Smallmouth Bass	16 in	3 / day
Muskellunge	48 in	1 / day
Crappie (white, black, hybrid) No more than 10 fish 10 in or longer		25 / day

Other species in this lake: look up the limits at Illinois Department of Natural Resources ↗

Verified October 2026. Rules change, so confirm current limits with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources before you fish.

Bait & tackle nearby

Closest shops to the lake and its boat launches. Call ahead for live bait and hours.

Rose's Boat, Motor & Bait ShopNearby
15875 Hwy 149, Murphysboro(618) 967-7495 Directions ↗

Search more bait shops near Kinkaid Lake ↗

Local tips

A 3-mile no-wake zone covers the northwest portion of the lake.
Live bait over 8 inches requires a quick-set rig.
Tournaments of more than 40 boats are not allowed June through August.

View on interactive map

Zoom and pan on a street, satellite or terrain map. Red pins are boat launches.

Lake BloomingtonMcLean County · 635 acres

Reservoir

Lake Bloomington

McLean County, Illinois

Lake Bloomington is a 635-acre city water supply reservoir in McLean County near Bloomington. It is open to public fishing year-round and holds walleye, bass, hybrid striped bass, northern pike, crappie, bluegill and catfish.

Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors.

Surface area635 acres

Max depth—

Shoreline18.5 mi

Boat motors40 h.p. max, 25 mph, no-wake from 30 min after sunset to 7 a.m.

Species

Fishery rating out of 5.

Largemouth Bass●●●○○

Weeds, docks and wood in the shallows.

Walleye●●●○○

Points, flats and reefs at low light. Jigs and live bait early, crankbaits and crawler harnesses in summer.

Crappie●●●○○

Brush piles, docks and standing timber. Minnows or small jigs.

Bluegill●●●○○

Weed beds and shallow flats in late spring.

Wiper●●●○○

Hybrid striped bass. Chase surface-feeding schools and points with wind.

Northern Pike●●●○○

Weed edges and bays. Spoons, spinnerbaits and tip-ups through the ice.

Boat launches

2 launch sites. Fees and hours change, so confirm before you go.

Hubbard Park boat rampRamp
Take County Road 1750 East to Park View Lane, then east. Boats need a State Boating License and a City of Bloomington boat permit.Directions ↗
More public accessPublic
See the IDNR or lake website for all ramps and feesDirections ↗

Size & creel limits

Minimum size and daily limit for each species in Lake Bloomington are published by the state. Look up the current size and creel limits for this lake directly: Illinois Department of Natural Resources ↗

Rules change, so confirm current limits with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources before you fish.

Bait & tackle nearby

No shops listed yet for this lake. Use the search link below.

Search more bait shops near Lake Bloomington ↗

Local tips

Boat fishing is not allowed between sunset and sunrise.
Two poles only. Jugs and trotlines are not allowed.
Size and creel limits are posted at the Parks Office. Free loaner poles: 309-434-2161.

Lake CarltonWhiteside County · 77 acres

State park lake

Lake Carlton

Whiteside County, Illinois

Lake Carlton is in Morrison-Rockwood State Park in Whiteside County. It has a two-lane concrete boat ramp and a 10 horsepower limit.

Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors.

Surface area77 acres

Max depth27 ft

Shoreline2.9 mi

Boat motors10 h.p. limit, no-wake speeds

Species

Fishery rating out of 5.

Saugeye●●●●○

Points, riprap and the dam area. Jigs in cold water, crankbaits in summer.

Largemouth Bass●●●○○

Weeds, docks and wood in the shallows.

Bluegill●●●○○

Weed beds and shallow flats in late spring.

Muskellunge●●●○○

Big baits along weed edges and rock bars, best in fall.

Crappie●●●○○

Brush piles, docks and standing timber. Minnows or small jigs.

Channel Catfish●●●○○

Cut bait and nightcrawlers on flats and creek mouths in the evening.

Boat launches

2 launch sites. Fees and hours change, so confirm before you go.

Lake Carlton boat rampRamp
Two-lane concrete rampDirections ↗
More public accessPublic
See the IDNR or lake website for all ramps and feesDirections ↗

Size & creel limits

Minimum size and daily limit for each species in Lake Carlton are published by the state. Look up the current size and creel limits for this lake directly: Illinois Department of Natural Resources ↗

Rules change, so confirm current limits with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources before you fish.

Bait & tackle nearby

No shops listed yet for this lake. Use the search link below.

Search more bait shops near Lake Carlton ↗

Local tips

Motors are limited to 10 horsepower and must run at no-wake speed.
Average depth is about 12 feet, with a deepest point of 27 feet.
Bring your own bait, since no nearby shop was confirmed.

Lake CentraliaMarion County · 412 acres

Reservoir

Lake Centralia

Marion County, Illinois

Lake Centralia is in Marion County, about 8 miles east of Centralia. The City of Centralia owns it for water supply, and it has a marina on the north side.

Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors.

Surface area412 acres

Max depth23 ft

Shoreline12.9 mi

Boat motorsCheck local rules

Species

Fishery rating out of 5.

Largemouth Bass●●●○○

Stocked

Crappie●●●○○

White and black crappie

Channel Catfish●●●○○

Stocked

Bluegill●●●○○

Weed beds and shallow flats in late spring.

Boat launches

2 launch sites. Fees and hours change, so confirm before you go.

Waverunner Cove boat rampRamp
2234 Waverunner Cove, Salem. Boats 21 feet and under. State watercraft card and city boat license needed for motorboats.Directions ↗
More public accessPublic
See the IDNR or lake website for all ramps and feesDirections ↗

Size & creel limits

Minimum size and daily limit for each species in Lake Centralia are published by the state. Look up the current size and creel limits for this lake directly: Illinois Department of Natural Resources ↗

Rules change, so confirm current limits with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources before you fish.

Bait & tackle nearby

No shops listed yet for this lake. Use the search link below.

Search more bait shops near Lake Centralia ↗

Local tips

Buy the city boat license before launching a motorboat.
Maximum depth is about 23 feet, so most fish hold near cover.
Bring a state watercraft card.

Lake CharlestonColes County · 346 acres

Reservoir

Lake Charleston

Coles County, Illinois

Lake Charleston is a reservoir on the Embarras River about 2 miles southeast of Charleston in Coles County. City parkland surrounds most of it, with a 3.6 mile trail around the lake and a fishing pier.

Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors.

Surface area346 acres

Max depth—

Shoreline—

Boat motorsNo-wake rule

Species

Fishery rating out of 5.

Boat launches

3 launch sites. Fees and hours change, so confirm before you go.

Lake Charleston Spillway Park rampRamp
17757 Lake Charleston Loop, Charleston. Public boat ramp.Directions ↗
Fishing pierPublic
Fishing pier on the lakeDirections ↗
More public accessPublic
See the IDNR or lake website for all ramps and feesDirections ↗

Size & creel limits

Minimum size and daily limit for each species in Lake Charleston are published by the state. Look up the current size and creel limits for this lake directly: Illinois Department of Natural Resources ↗

Rules change, so confirm current limits with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources before you fish.

Bait & tackle nearby

No shops listed yet for this lake. Use the search link below.

Search more bait shops near Lake Charleston ↗

Local tips

Power boats are allowed but the lake enforces a no-wake rule.
A 3.6 mile trail circles the lake for shore access.
Fish species were not confirmed, so ask locally before you go.

Lake ChautauquaMason County · 1,200 acres

Backwater lake / National Wildlife Refuge

Lake Chautauqua

Mason County, Illinois

Lake Chautauqua is a large backwater of the Illinois River in Chautauqua National Wildlife Refuge near Havana. Anglers go there for bluegill, largemouth bass, crappie and catfish.

Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors.

Surface area1,200 acres

Max depth—

Shoreline—

Boat motorsNo horsepower limit listed; no wake speed on refuge waters

Species

Fishery rating out of 5.

Largemouth Bass●●●○○

Weeds, docks and wood in the shallows.

Crappie●●●○○

Brush piles, docks and standing timber. Minnows or small jigs.

Bluegill●●●○○

Weed beds and shallow flats in late spring.

Channel Catfish●●●○○

Cut bait and nightcrawlers on flats and creek mouths in the evening.

Boat launches

3 launch sites. Fees and hours change, so confirm before you go.

Eagle Bluff Access PointRamp
Boat ramps for the North and South pools while the refuge is open (Feb 1 to Oct 15)Directions ↗
Liverpool and Havana rampsRamp
Used to reach the river during the Oct 16 to Jan 31 waterfowl closureDirections ↗
More public accessPublic
See the IDNR or lake website for all ramps and feesDirections ↗

Size & creel limits

Minimum size and daily limit for each species in Lake Chautauqua are published by the state. Look up the current size and creel limits for this lake directly: Illinois Department of Natural Resources ↗

Rules change, so confirm current limits with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources before you fish.

Bait & tackle nearby

No shops listed yet for this lake. Use the search link below.

Search more bait shops near Lake Chautauqua ↗

Local tips

Refuge waters are closed to boats from Oct 16 through Jan 31, so plan fall trips early.
Boats must run at no wake speed, so expect slow travel between spots.
Pack out all line and hooks. The refuge asks anglers to protect wildlife.

Lake DecaturMacon County · 3,093 acres

City reservoir

Lake Decatur

Macon County, Illinois

Lake Decatur is a City of Decatur reservoir on the Sangamon River, created in the early 1920s, with parks including Nelson Park and Faries Park along its shore. IDNR lists walleye, crappie, white bass and catfish among its fisheries.

Air temp in Decatur, IL Loading current temperature…

Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors.

Current air temperature at Lake Decatur (National Weather Service) ↗

Surface area3,093 acres

Max depth—

Shoreline—

Boat motorsCheck local rules

Species

Fishery rating out of 5.

Walleye●●●●○

Points, flats and reefs at low light. Jigs and live bait early, crankbaits and crawler harnesses in summer.

Crappie●●●●○

Brush piles, docks and standing timber. Minnows or small jigs.

White Bass●●●○○

Schools chasing shad in open water, and spring river runs.

Wiper●●○○○

Hybrid striped bass. Chase surface-feeding schools and points with wind.

Channel Catfish●●●●○

Cut bait and nightcrawlers on flats and creek mouths in the evening.

Flathead Catfish●●●○○

Live bait around wood and rock at night.

Largemouth Bass●●●○○

Weeds, docks and wood in the shallows.

Boat launches

2 launch sites. Fees and hours change, so confirm before you go.

Nelson Park boat rampsPublic
City of Decatur launch; boat registration or day pass from the Lake Patrol office in Nelson Park; fees applyDirections ↗
More public accessPublic
See the IDNR or lake website for all ramps and feesDirections ↗

Size & creel limits

Special rules for this lake, confirmed from official state regulations. Minimum size and daily limit.

Species	Min size	Daily limit
Largemouth/Smallmouth Bass	14 in	6 / day
Crappie	10 in	10 / day

Other species in this lake: look up the limits at Illinois Department of Natural Resources ↗

Verified October 2026. Rules change, so confirm current limits with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources before you fish.

Bait & tackle nearby

Closest shops to the lake and its boat launches. Call ahead for live bait and hours.

Mike's Tackle WorldNearby
2283 E Geddes Ave, Decatur(217) 423-0730 Directions ↗

Search more bait shops near Lake Decatur ↗

Local tips

The entire lake is no wake from one-half hour after sunset to sunrise.
City boat registration is required; day passes are sold at the Lake Patrol office in Nelson Park.
Two pole-and-line fishing only; bow fishing and bullfrog spearing are not allowed.

View on interactive map

Zoom and pan on a street, satellite or terrain map. Red pins are boat launches; blue pins are bait shops nearby.

Lake GeorgeRock Island County · 167 acres

County forest preserve lake

Lake George

Rock Island County, Illinois

Lake George is a 167-acre stocked lake at Loud Thunder Forest Preserve in Rock Island County. It offers bass, bluegill, crappie, catfish, walleye, hybrid striped bass and muskie.

Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors.

Surface area167 acres

Max depth—

Shoreline—

Boat motorsGas motors not allowed. Electric trolling motors only.

Species

Fishery rating out of 5.

Largemouth Bass●●●●○

14-inch minimum, 6 per day

Crappie●●●○○

25 per day

Bluegill●●●○○

Weed beds and shallow flats in late spring.

Channel Catfish●●●○○

6 per day

Walleye●●●○○

14-inch minimum, 6 per day

Muskellunge●●○○○

36-inch minimum, 1 per day

Boat launches

2 launch sites. Fees and hours change, so confirm before you go.

Lake George boat rampRamp
Public ramp with docks and boat rental docks. No fishing from the docks.Directions ↗
More public accessPublic
See the IDNR or lake website for all ramps and feesDirections ↗

Size & creel limits

Special rules for this lake, confirmed from official state regulations. Minimum size and daily limit.

Species	Min size	Daily limit
Largemouth Bass	14	6
Channel Catfish	See Illinois rules book ↗	6
Crappie	See Illinois rules book ↗	25
Muskellunge	36	1
Walleye	14	6
Wiper Hybrid striped bass	17	1
Bluegill	See Illinois rules book ↗	no limit

Other species in this lake: look up the limits at Illinois Department of Natural Resources ↗

Verified October 2026. Rules change, so confirm current limits with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources before you fish.

Bait & tackle nearby

No shops listed yet for this lake. Use the search link below.

Search more bait shops near Lake George ↗

Local tips

Bring an electric trolling motor. Gas motors are banned.
Do not fish from the ramp or rental docks.
Two poles per person is the limit. Trot lines and jug fishing are not allowed.

Lake JacksonvilleMorgan County · 442 acres

Reservoir

Lake Jacksonville

Morgan County, Illinois

Lake Jacksonville is in Morgan County near Jacksonville. It is known for channel catfish and hybrid striped bass.

Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors.

Surface area442 acres

Max depth—

Shoreline—

Boat motorsCheck local rules

Species

Fishery rating out of 5.

Channel Catfish●●●●○

Rated excellent

Wiper●●●●○

Hybrid striped bass, rated very good

Largemouth Bass●●●○○

Weeds, docks and wood in the shallows.

Crappie●●●○○

Brush piles, docks and standing timber. Minnows or small jigs.

Bluegill●●○○○

Weed beds and shallow flats in late spring.

Boat launches

2 launch sites. Fees and hours change, so confirm before you go.

Lake Jacksonville boat rampRamp
2197 New Lake Rd, Jacksonville.Directions ↗
More public accessPublic
See the IDNR or lake website for all ramps and feesDirections ↗

Size & creel limits

Minimum size and daily limit for each species in Lake Jacksonville are published by the state. Look up the current size and creel limits for this lake directly: Illinois Department of Natural Resources ↗

Rules change, so confirm current limits with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources before you fish.

Bait & tackle nearby

No shops listed yet for this lake. Use the search link below.

Search more bait shops near Lake Jacksonville ↗

Local tips

Average depth is only about 12 feet, so fish the deeper spots in summer.
Try cut bait or stink bait for channel catfish.
Check with the city for permits and boat rules before you go.

Lake MattoonShelby County · 1,050 acres

Reservoir

Lake Mattoon

Shelby County, Illinois

Lake Mattoon is a 1,050-acre city-owned reservoir in Shelby County near Mattoon and Neoga. It is known for crappie, catfish and hybrid striped bass.

Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors.

Surface area1,050 acres

Max depth35 ft

Shoreline55.5 mi

Boat motorsNo power limit listed; boats and trailers need state and city registration

Species

Fishery rating out of 5.

Crappie●●●●○

Brush piles, docks and standing timber. Minnows or small jigs.

Channel Catfish●●●●○

Cut bait and nightcrawlers on flats and creek mouths in the evening.

Wiper●●●●○

Hybrid striped bass. Chase surface-feeding schools and points with wind.

Largemouth Bass●●●○○

Weeds, docks and wood in the shallows.

Saugeye●●●○○

Points, riprap and the dam area. Jigs in cold water, crankbaits in summer.

Bluegill●●●○○

Weed beds and shallow flats in late spring.

Boat launches

2 launch sites. Fees and hours change, so confirm before you go.

Lake Mattoon MarinaMarina
1282 County Road 000 East, Neoga. Boat and trailer stickers are sold here.Directions ↗
More public accessPublic
See the IDNR or lake website for all ramps and feesDirections ↗

Size & creel limits

Minimum size and daily limit for each species in Lake Mattoon are published by the state. Look up the current size and creel limits for this lake directly: Illinois Department of Natural Resources ↗

Rules change, so confirm current limits with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources before you fish.

Bait & tackle nearby

No shops listed yet for this lake. Use the search link below.

Search more bait shops near Lake Mattoon ↗

Local tips

Buy the city boat and trailer sticker at the marina before launching.
The lake has had algae bloom closures, so check with the city before you go.
Crappie rate best here, so try brush and timber in spring.

Lake MingoVermilion County · 170 acres

Lake

Lake Mingo

Vermilion County, Illinois

Lake Mingo is a 172-acre lake near Danville in Vermilion County. It has a public boat ramp and is fished for bass, catfish, crappie and bluegill.

Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors.

Surface area170 acres

Max depth38 ft

Shoreline—

Boat motors9.9 hp limit

Species

Fishery rating out of 5.

Largemouth Bass●●●●○

Weeds, docks and wood in the shallows.

Channel Catfish●●●●○

Cut bait and nightcrawlers on flats and creek mouths in the evening.

Crappie●●●○○

Brush piles, docks and standing timber. Minnows or small jigs.

Bluegill●●●○○

Weed beds and shallow flats in late spring.

Boat launches

2 launch sites. Fees and hours change, so confirm before you go.

Lake Mingo public boat rampRamp
Public boat ramp and water access near DanvilleDirections ↗
More public accessPublic
See the IDNR or lake website for all ramps and feesDirections ↗

Size & creel limits

Minimum size and daily limit for each species in Lake Mingo are published by the state. Look up the current size and creel limits for this lake directly: Illinois Department of Natural Resources ↗

Rules change, so confirm current limits with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources before you fish.

Bait & tackle nearby

No shops listed yet for this lake. Use the search link below.

Search more bait shops near Lake Mingo ↗

Local tips

Keep motors at 9.9 hp or less.
Depth reaches about 38 feet, so look for bass on deeper structure in summer.
Channel catfish and bass rate best.

Lake of EgyptJohnson County · 2,400 acres

Power-plant cooling lake

Lake of Egypt

Johnson County, Illinois

Lake of Egypt is a reservoir about six miles south of Marion, created in 1962 by Southern Illinois Power Cooperative to supply cooling water for a coal-fired power plant. It is open to boats of all motor sizes and is fished for bluegill, largemouth bass, channel catfish, striped bass and crappie.

Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors.

Surface area2,400 acres

Max depth52 ft

Shoreline—

Boat motorsUnlimited horsepower

Species

Fishery rating out of 5.

Largemouth Bass●●●○○

Weeds, docks and wood in the shallows.

Bluegill●●●○○

Weed beds and shallow flats in late spring.

Crappie●●●○○

Brush piles, docks and standing timber. Minnows or small jigs.

Channel Catfish●●●○○

Cut bait and nightcrawlers on flats and creek mouths in the evening.

Striped Bass●●●○○

Follow shad schools. Live bait, umbrella rigs and topwater.

Boat launches

2 launch sites. Fees and hours change, so confirm before you go.

Mack's Lake of Egypt Marina public rampMarina
$10 launch fee; 12024 Laguna Dr, Marion; (618) 964-1821Directions ↗
More public accessPublic
See the IDNR or lake website for all ramps and feesDirections ↗

Size & creel limits

Minimum size and daily limit for each species in Lake of Egypt are published by the state. Look up the current size and creel limits for this lake directly: Illinois Department of Natural Resources ↗

Rules change, so confirm current limits with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources before you fish.

Bait & tackle nearby

Closest shops to the lake and its boat launches. Call ahead for live bait and hours.

Just Add Water Bait, Tackle & MoreNearby
12092 Lake of Egypt Rd, Marion(618) 964-1944 Directions ↗

Search more bait shops near Lake of Egypt ↗

Local tips

IDNR lists boat fishing on the lake as unrestricted.
Public ramp at Mack's Marina charges a $10 launch fee.
Consult the IDNR Fishing Digest for current statewide limits.

Lake PittsfieldPike County · 220 acres

Reservoir

Lake Pittsfield

Pike County, Illinois

Lake Pittsfield is a city lake of about 241 acres near Pittsfield in Pike County. It is known for hybrid striped bass, flathead catfish and walleye.

Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors.

Surface area220 acres

Max depth34 ft

Shoreline—

Boat motorsCheck local rules

Species

Fishery rating out of 5.

Wiper●●●●●

Hybrid striped bass. Chase surface-feeding schools and points with wind.

Flathead Catfish●●●●●

Live bait around wood and rock at night.

Walleye●●●●○

Points, flats and reefs at low light. Jigs and live bait early, crankbaits and crawler harnesses in summer.

Largemouth Bass●●●○○

Weeds, docks and wood in the shallows.

Channel Catfish●●●○○

Cut bait and nightcrawlers on flats and creek mouths in the evening.

Crappie●●●○○

Brush piles, docks and standing timber. Minnows or small jigs.

Boat launches

2 launch sites. Fees and hours change, so confirm before you go.

Pittsfield Lake boat rampRamp
Boat ramps are available. Call the city at (217) 285-4484 for details.Directions ↗
More public accessPublic
See the IDNR or lake website for all ramps and feesDirections ↗

Size & creel limits

Minimum size and daily limit for each species in Lake Pittsfield are published by the state. Look up the current size and creel limits for this lake directly: Illinois Department of Natural Resources ↗

Rules change, so confirm current limits with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources before you fish.

Bait & tackle nearby

No shops listed yet for this lake. Use the search link below.

Search more bait shops near Lake Pittsfield ↗

Local tips

Wipers and flatheads rate highest here.
Average depth is about 12 feet and the deepest water is about 34 feet.
Call the city at (217) 285-4484 for permit and motor rules.

Lake SaraEffingham County · 800 acres

Reservoir

Lake Sara

Effingham County, Illinois

Lake Sara is about four miles west of Effingham in Effingham County. It is a water-supply lake owned by the Effingham Water Authority, with a public beach and marinas.

Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors.

Surface area800 acres

Max depth47 ft

Shoreline—

Boat motorsCheck local rules

Species

Fishery rating out of 5.

Crappie●●●●○

Brush piles, docks and standing timber. Minnows or small jigs.

Largemouth Bass●●●○○

Rated as improving

White Bass●●●○○

Schools chasing shad in open water, and spring river runs.

Channel Catfish●●●○○

Cut bait and nightcrawlers on flats and creek mouths in the evening.

Bluegill●●○○○

Weed beds and shallow flats in late spring.

Boat launches

2 launch sites. Fees and hours change, so confirm before you go.

Lake Sara public boat rampRamp
8724 E Marine Rd, Effingham.Directions ↗
More public accessPublic
See the IDNR or lake website for all ramps and feesDirections ↗

Size & creel limits

Minimum size and daily limit for each species in Lake Sara are published by the state. Look up the current size and creel limits for this lake directly: Illinois Department of Natural Resources ↗

Rules change, so confirm current limits with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources before you fish.

Bait & tackle nearby

No shops listed yet for this lake. Use the search link below.

Search more bait shops near Lake Sara ↗

Local tips

Fish brush and habitat structures for crappie.
The lake is deep, up to about 47 feet, so check depth near the dam.
Ask at the marinas about current rules and fees.

Lake ShelbyvilleShelby & Moultrie Counties · 11,100 acres

Army Corps reservoir

Lake Shelbyville

Shelby & Moultrie Counties, Illinois

A central Illinois reservoir known for muskie, crappie, walleye and white bass.

Air temp in Findlay, IL Loading current temperature…

Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors.

Current air temperature at Lake Shelbyville (National Weather Service) ↗

Surface area11,100 acres

Max depth67 ft

Shoreline—

Boat motorsCheck local rules

Species

Fishery rating out of 5.

Muskellunge●●●●○

Big baits along weed edges and rock bars, best in fall.

Crappie●●●●○

Brush piles, docks and standing timber. Minnows or small jigs.

Walleye●●●○○

Points, flats and reefs at low light. Jigs and live bait early, crankbaits and crawler harnesses in summer.

White Bass●●●○○

Schools chasing shad in open water, and spring river runs.

Largemouth Bass●●●○○

Weeds, docks and wood in the shallows.

Boat launches

1 launch sites. Fees and hours change, so confirm before you go.

More public accessPublic
See the IDNR or lake website for all ramps and feesDirections ↗

Size & creel limits

Special rules for this lake, confirmed from official state regulations. Minimum size and daily limit.

Species	Min size	Daily limit
Largemouth Bass	14 in	6 / day combined
Smallmouth Bass	14 in	6 / day combined
Muskellunge	48 in	1 / day
Striped Bass	32 in	2 / day
Walleye Includes sauger/walleye hybrid	14 in	6 / day
Crappie No more than 10 may be 10 in or longer	See Illinois rules book ↗	15 / day

Other species in this lake: look up the limits at Illinois Department of Natural Resources ↗

Verified October 2026. Rules change, so confirm current limits with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources before you fish.

Bait & tackle nearby

Closest shops to the lake and its boat launches. Call ahead for live bait and hours.

Spillway Motel & Bait ShopNearby
1295 N Highway 16 East, Shelbyville(217) 774-9591 Directions ↗
Craig's Sporting Goods & Family Fun CenterNearby
105 E Main St, Shelbyville(217) 296-2130 Directions ↗

Search more bait shops near Lake Shelbyville ↗

Local tips

It's one of Illinois' top muskie lakes.
Crappie stack on brush piles in spring.
Two state parks, Eagle Creek and Wolf Creek, have launches.

View on interactive map

Zoom and pan on a street, satellite or terrain map. Red pins are boat launches; blue pins are bait shops nearby.

Lake SpringfieldSangamon County · 4,234 acres

City reservoir

Lake Springfield

Sangamon County, Illinois

Lake Springfield is a City Water, Light and Power impoundment on Lick and Sugar creeks, built in 1931 and managed cooperatively with IDNR. It is open to motorboats, sailboats and personal watercraft, and the lower end stays open in winter because of a power plant.

Air temp in Chatham, IL Loading current temperature…

Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors.

Current air temperature at Lake Springfield (National Weather Service) ↗

Surface area4,234 acres

Max depth30 ft

Shoreline—

Boat motorsCheck local rules

Species

Fishery rating out of 5.

Largemouth Bass●●●●○

Weeds, docks and wood in the shallows.

Crappie●●●●○

Brush piles, docks and standing timber. Minnows or small jigs.

White Bass●●●○○

Schools chasing shad in open water, and spring river runs.

Bluegill●●●○○

Weed beds and shallow flats in late spring.

Channel Catfish●●●○○

Cut bait and nightcrawlers on flats and creek mouths in the evening.

Walleye●●●○○

Points, flats and reefs at low light. Jigs and live bait early, crankbaits and crawler harnesses in summer.

Blue Catfish●●○○○

Deep channel edges. Fresh cut shad. Big fish in winter.

Boat launches

5 launch sites. Fees and hours change, so confirm before you go.

Center Park HarborPublic
CWLP public launch, wheelchair accessibleDirections ↗
Lindsay BridgePublic
CWLP public launch and boat licensing station (Saturdays); 217-786-4075Directions ↗
Spaulding DamPublic
CWLP public launch, wheelchair accessibleDirections ↗
Lake Springfield MarinaMarina
Boat licensing; 217-483-3625Directions ↗
More public accessPublic
See the IDNR or lake website for all ramps and feesDirections ↗

Size & creel limits

Minimum size and daily limit for each species in Lake Springfield are published by the state. Look up the current size and creel limits for this lake directly: Illinois Department of Natural Resources ↗

Rules change, so confirm current limits with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources before you fish.

Bait & tackle nearby

Closest shops to the lake and its boat launches. Call ahead for live bait and hours.

Big Red's Bait & TackleNearby
2193 Stevenson Dr, SpringfieldDirections ↗

Search more bait shops near Lake Springfield ↗

Local tips

All boats need both City of Springfield and Illinois registration (April 1 to March 31).
Stay at least 35 feet from leased residential property; fishing at Lincoln Memorial Garden shoreline is prohibited.
Designated fishing areas include Dividing Dam, Sunset View Fishing Area and the pier between the Tom Madonia Parks.

View on interactive map

Zoom and pan on a street, satellite or terrain map. Red pins are boat launches; blue pins are bait shops nearby.

Lake StoreyKnox County · 133 acres

City park lake

Lake Storey

Knox County, Illinois

Lake Storey is a 132-acre lake in Lake Storey Park in Galesburg, Knox County. The park has a boat ramp and fishing access.

Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors.

Surface area133 acres

Max depth—

Shoreline—

Boat motorsCheck local rules

Species

Fishery rating out of 5.

Largemouth Bass●●●○○

Weeds, docks and wood in the shallows.

Channel Catfish●●●○○

Cut bait and nightcrawlers on flats and creek mouths in the evening.

Bluegill●●●○○

Weed beds and shallow flats in late spring.

Crappie●●●○○

Brush piles, docks and standing timber. Minnows or small jigs.

Boat launches

2 launch sites. Fees and hours change, so confirm before you go.

Lake Storey boat rampRamp
Public ramp at 149 Lakeland Dr, GalesburgDirections ↗
More public accessPublic
See the IDNR or lake website for all ramps and feesDirections ↗

Size & creel limits

Minimum size and daily limit for each species in Lake Storey are published by the state. Look up the current size and creel limits for this lake directly: Illinois Department of Natural Resources ↗

Rules change, so confirm current limits with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources before you fish.

Bait & tackle nearby

No shops listed yet for this lake. Use the search link below.

Search more bait shops near Lake Storey ↗

Local tips

The ramp is reached by sidewalk from the park lot.
Call the park at (309) 345-3683 for motor rules and fees.
Check park rules before you go.

Lake SuleOgle County · 77 acres

Park district lake

Lake Sule

Ogle County, Illinois

Lake Sule is a 77-acre lake near Rochelle in Ogle County, close to the I-39 and I-88 junction. It is managed by the Flagg-Rochelle Park District and holds bluegill, largemouth bass, muskie and saugeye.

Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors.

Surface area77 acres

Max depth15 ft

Shoreline—

Boat motorsCheck local rules

Species

Fishery rating out of 5.

Largemouth Bass●●●○○

Weeds, docks and wood in the shallows.

Bluegill●●●○○

Weed beds and shallow flats in late spring.

Saugeye●●●○○

Points, riprap and the dam area. Jigs in cold water, crankbaits in summer.

Muskellunge●●○○○

Big baits along weed edges and rock bars, best in fall.

Channel Catfish●●○○○

Cut bait and nightcrawlers on flats and creek mouths in the evening.

Boat launches

2 launch sites. Fees and hours change, so confirm before you go.

Lake Sule boat rampRamp
Public boat ramp and water access near RochelleDirections ↗
More public accessPublic
See the IDNR or lake website for all ramps and feesDirections ↗

Size & creel limits

Minimum size and daily limit for each species in Lake Sule are published by the state. Look up the current size and creel limits for this lake directly: Illinois Department of Natural Resources ↗

Rules change, so confirm current limits with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources before you fish.

Bait & tackle nearby

No shops listed yet for this lake. Use the search link below.

Search more bait shops near Lake Sule ↗

Local tips

The lake is small and shallow, with about 15 feet at the deepest, so fish the weedlines and drop-offs.
Call the Flagg-Rochelle Park District before you go to confirm hours and permit needs.
Use light line for bluegill and work small baits near cover.

Lake TaylorvilleChristian County · 1,286 acres

Reservoir

Lake Taylorville

Christian County, Illinois

Lake Taylorville is a shallow city-owned reservoir of about 1,200 acres near Taylorville in Christian County. It is known for crappie, largemouth bass and channel catfish.

Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors.

Surface area1,286 acres

Max depth—

Shoreline—

Boat motorsCheck local rules

Species

Fishery rating out of 5.

Crappie●●●●○

Brush piles, docks and standing timber. Minnows or small jigs.

Largemouth Bass●●●○○

Weeds, docks and wood in the shallows.

Channel Catfish●●●○○

Cut bait and nightcrawlers on flats and creek mouths in the evening.

Bluegill●●○○○

Weed beds and shallow flats in late spring.

Sauger●○○○○

River current and deep holes. Jigs and minnows in cold water.

Boat launches

2 launch sites. Fees and hours change, so confirm before you go.

Lake Taylorville MarinaMarina
City-run marina with boating access and bait sales; summer office hours vary, closed WednesdaysDirections ↗
More public accessPublic
See the IDNR or lake website for all ramps and feesDirections ↗

Size & creel limits

Minimum size and daily limit for each species in Lake Taylorville are published by the state. Look up the current size and creel limits for this lake directly: Illinois Department of Natural Resources ↗

Rules change, so confirm current limits with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources before you fish.

Bait & tackle nearby

Closest shops to the lake and its boat launches. Call ahead for live bait and hours.

Lake Taylorville MarinaNearby
Lake Taylorville, Taylorville, IL(217) 824-5606 Directions ↗

Search more bait shops near Lake Taylorville ↗

Local tips

The lake averages under 7 feet deep, so watch for stumps and objects just below the surface.
Crappie are the top target, so try brush and wood cover.
Call the city lake department at (217) 824-5606 for permit and boat rules.

Lake VermilionVermilion County · 666 acres

Reservoir

Lake Vermilion

Vermilion County, Illinois

Lake Vermilion is a 1,000-acre water supply lake at Lake Vermilion County Park near Danville. The Vermilion County Conservation District manages recreation on it, and tournaments are held there often.

Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors.

Surface area666 acres

Max depth—

Shoreline—

Boat motorsUnlimited horsepower

Species

Fishery rating out of 5.

Crappie●●●●○

Brush piles, docks and standing timber. Minnows or small jigs.

Largemouth Bass●●●●○

Weeds, docks and wood in the shallows.

Channel Catfish●●●●○

Cut bait and nightcrawlers on flats and creek mouths in the evening.

Bluegill●●●○○

Weed beds and shallow flats in late spring.

Boat launches

2 launch sites. Fees and hours change, so confirm before you go.

Lake Vermilion County Park boat rampRamp
Boat ramp and dock complex with a concession building; park closes at dark except for boating and fishingDirections ↗
More public accessPublic
See the IDNR or lake website for all ramps and feesDirections ↗

Size & creel limits

Minimum size and daily limit for each species in Lake Vermilion are published by the state. Look up the current size and creel limits for this lake directly: Illinois Department of Natural Resources ↗

Rules change, so confirm current limits with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources before you fish.

Bait & tackle nearby

No shops listed yet for this lake. Use the search link below.

Search more bait shops near Lake Vermilion ↗

Local tips

Boat decals are required here, and daily passes are sold at the park.
The lake averages about 12 feet deep, so look for crappie around submerged cover.
Night fishing is allowed even though the park closes at dark.

LaSalle LakeLaSalle County · 2,050 acres

Power-plant cooling lake

LaSalle Lake

LaSalle County, Illinois

LaSalle Lake is a 2,058-acre cooling reservoir for the LaSalle Power Station, located 8 miles southeast of Marseilles in LaSalle County. Average depth is 15 feet with excavated areas up to 70 feet, and the entire shoreline is rip-rapped rock dikes.

Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors.

Surface area2,050 acres

Max depth70 ft

Shoreline—

Boat motorsUnlimited horsepower (40 mph max speed except no-wake areas)

Species

Fishery rating out of 5.

Blue Catfish●●●●○

12-30 in common; trophy potential

Bluegill●●●●○

Weed beds and shallow flats in late spring.

Wiper●●●○○

2-8 lb fish reported

Largemouth Bass●●●○○

Weeds, docks and wood in the shallows.

Channel Catfish●●●○○

Cut bait and nightcrawlers on flats and creek mouths in the evening.

Smallmouth Bass●●○○○

Stocked annually

Boat launches

2 launch sites. Fees and hours change, so confirm before you go.

LaSalle Lake boat launchRamp
Three-lane concrete ramp, ADA accessible, southwestern corner of lakeDirections ↗
More public accessPublic
See the IDNR or lake website for all ramps and feesDirections ↗

Size & creel limits

Special rules for this lake, confirmed from official state regulations. Minimum size and daily limit.

Species	Min size	Daily limit
Largemouth/Smallmouth Bass	18 in	1 / day
Striped, White or Hybrid Striped Bass No more than 3 fish 17 in or longer		10 / day

Other species in this lake: look up the limits at Illinois Department of Natural Resources ↗

Verified October 2026. Rules change, so confirm current limits with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources before you fish.

Bait & tackle nearby

Closest shops to the lake and its boat launches. Call ahead for live bait and hours.

Applebee's Bait ShopNearby
2956 N Rt 178, Utica(815) 667-7036 Directions ↗

Search more bait shops near LaSalle Lake ↗

Local tips

Call (815) 357-1608 before launching; access depends on weather conditions updated daily at 6 a.m.
Lake is open to fishing March 15 to October 15 only; hours are 6 a.m. to sunset.
Winds can make the lake rough and the shoreline is rip-rap with no beaching areas; boaters need time to reach the ramp from the north end.

Lincoln Trail LakeClark County · 146 acres

State park lake

Lincoln Trail Lake

Clark County, Illinois

Lincoln Trail Lake is a 146-acre lake in Lincoln Trail State Park, about 2 miles south of Marshall in Clark County. It is known for crappie, largemouth bass and bluegill.

Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors.

Surface area146 acres

Max depth35 ft

Shoreline—

Boat motors10 horsepower limit

Species

Fishery rating out of 5.

Crappie●●●●○

Brush piles, docks and standing timber. Minnows or small jigs.

Largemouth Bass●●●●○

Weeds, docks and wood in the shallows.

Bluegill●●●●○

Weed beds and shallow flats in late spring.

Channel Catfish●●●○○

Cut bait and nightcrawlers on flats and creek mouths in the evening.

Walleye●●○○○

Rated as still developing

Boat launches

2 launch sites. Fees and hours change, so confirm before you go.

Lincoln Trail State Park boat rampRamp
Launching ramp with trailer parking; boat rentals availableDirections ↗
More public accessPublic
See the IDNR or lake website for all ramps and feesDirections ↗

Size & creel limits

Minimum size and daily limit for each species in Lincoln Trail Lake are published by the state. Look up the current size and creel limits for this lake directly: Illinois Department of Natural Resources ↗

Rules change, so confirm current limits with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources before you fish.

Bait & tackle nearby

No shops listed yet for this lake. Use the search link below.

Search more bait shops near Lincoln Trail Lake ↗

Local tips

Outboards are limited to 10 horsepower, so plan your boat around that.
Depth runs to about 35 feet, so crappie may hold deeper in summer and winter.
Rent a boat at the park if you do not have a small motor.

Little Grassy LakeWilliamson County · 1,000 acres

Reservoir / National Wildlife Refuge lake

Little Grassy Lake

Williamson County, Illinois

Little Grassy Lake is a 1,200-acre lake in Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge, reached by Giant City Road near Carbondale. It is known for largemouth bass, bluegill, crappie and channel catfish.

Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors.

Surface area1,000 acres

Max depth—

Shoreline36 mi

Boat motors10 horsepower limit; a refuge permit is required

Species

Fishery rating out of 5.

Largemouth Bass●●●●○

Weeds, docks and wood in the shallows.

Bluegill●●●●○

Weed beds and shallow flats in late spring.

Crappie●●●○○

Brush piles, docks and standing timber. Minnows or small jigs.

Channel Catfish●●●○○

Cut bait and nightcrawlers on flats and creek mouths in the evening.

Boat launches

2 launch sites. Fees and hours change, so confirm before you go.

Little Grassy Lake refuge accessPublic
Refuge boat access and bank fishing; the marina and campground are permanently closed and the lake is being drawn down for dam repairsDirections ↗
More public accessPublic
See the IDNR or lake website for all ramps and feesDirections ↗

Size & creel limits

Minimum size and daily limit for each species in Little Grassy Lake are published by the state. Look up the current size and creel limits for this lake directly: Illinois Department of Natural Resources ↗

Rules change, so confirm current limits with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources before you fish.

Bait & tackle nearby

No shops listed yet for this lake. Use the search link below.

Search more bait shops near Little Grassy Lake ↗

Local tips

The lake is being drawn down for dam repair, so check with Crab Orchard refuge for current water levels and ramp use.
Outboards are limited to 10 horsepower and a refuge permit is needed.
Alternatives nearby include Crab Orchard Lake and Devil's Kitchen Lake.

Lou Yaeger LakeMontgomery County · 1,268 acres

City reservoir

Lou Yaeger Lake

Montgomery County, Illinois

Lake Lou Yaeger is a 1,269-acre city reservoir one mile northeast of Litchfield in Montgomery County. Average depth is about 10 feet, and it offers camping, picnicking and two boat ramps on the southwest shore.

Air temp in Butler, IL Loading current temperature…

Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors.

Current air temperature at Lou Yaeger Lake (National Weather Service) ↗

Surface area1,268 acres

Max depth31 ft

Shoreline24.9 mi

Boat motorsUnlimited horsepower

Species

Fishery rating out of 5.

Channel Catfish●●●●○

Natural reproduction occurring

Bluegill●●●○○

6-7.5 in commonly caught

Crappie●●●○○

White crappie 6.5-9 in typical

Largemouth Bass●●○○○

Weak population per IDNR

Boat launches

2 launch sites. Fees and hours change, so confirm before you go.

Southwest shore boat ramps (2)Ramp
City of Litchfield boat sticker required to launchDirections ↗
More public accessPublic
See the IDNR or lake website for all ramps and feesDirections ↗

Size & creel limits

Special rules for this lake, confirmed from official state regulations. Minimum size and daily limit.

Species	Min size	Daily limit
Largemouth/Smallmouth Bass	15 in	3 / day
Channel Catfish		6 / day

Other species in this lake: look up the limits at Illinois Department of Natural Resources ↗

Verified October 2026. Rules change, so confirm current limits with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources before you fish.

Bait & tackle nearby

No shops listed yet for this lake. Use the search link below.

Search more bait shops near Lou Yaeger Lake ↗

Local tips

A City of Litchfield boat sticker is required to launch.
Two-pole fishing only, with no more than 2 hooks or lures per pole.
Zebra mussels are present; clean, drain and dry your boat.

View on interactive map

Zoom and pan on a street, satellite or terrain map. Red pins are boat launches.

Lyerla LakeUnion County · 260 acres

State fish and wildlife area lake

Lyerla Lake

Union County, Illinois

Lyerla Lake is a 275-acre lake at Union County State Fish and Wildlife Area near Jonesboro. It is known for bluegill and crappie fishing in early spring and late summer.

Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors.

Surface area260 acres

Max depth—

Shoreline—

Boat motors10 horsepower limit

Species

Fishery rating out of 5.

Bluegill●●●●○

Best in early spring and late summer

Crappie●●●●○

Best in early spring and late summer

Boat launches

2 launch sites. Fees and hours change, so confirm before you go.

Lyerla Lake boat launchRamp
Launch next to Reynoldsville RoadDirections ↗
More public accessPublic
See the IDNR or lake website for all ramps and feesDirections ↗

Size & creel limits

Minimum size and daily limit for each species in Lyerla Lake are published by the state. Look up the current size and creel limits for this lake directly: Illinois Department of Natural Resources ↗

Rules change, so confirm current limits with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources before you fish.

Bait & tackle nearby

No shops listed yet for this lake. Use the search link below.

Search more bait shops near Lyerla Lake ↗

Local tips

Fishing is open only from March 1 to October 15.
Outboards are limited to 10 horsepower.
Call the site office at 618-833-5175 for current conditions.

Marshall CountyMarshall County · 2,557 acres

Backwater lake / fish and wildlife area

Marshall County

Marshall County, Illinois

Marshall State Fish and Wildlife Area offers fishing in the Illinois River and its backwaters, plus a half-mile man-made fishing channel near the campground. IDNR's Places to Fish list shows 2,557 acres at Marshall County Lake with boat ramps and no horsepower limit.

Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors.

Surface area2,557 acres

Max depth—

Shoreline—

Boat motorsNo horsepower limit

Species

Fishery rating out of 5.

Bluegill●●●○○

Weed beds and shallow flats in late spring.

Crappie●●●○○

Brush piles, docks and standing timber. Minnows or small jigs.

Channel Catfish●●●○○

Cut bait and nightcrawlers on flats and creek mouths in the evening.

Largemouth Bass●●●○○

Weeds, docks and wood in the shallows.

Boat launches

2 launch sites. Fees and hours change, so confirm before you go.

Marshall Unit headquarters rampPublic
Free launching rampDirections ↗
More public accessPublic
See the IDNR or lake website for all ramps and feesDirections ↗

Size & creel limits

Minimum size and daily limit for each species in Marshall County are published by the state. Look up the current size and creel limits for this lake directly: Illinois Department of Natural Resources ↗

Rules change, so confirm current limits with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources before you fish.

Bait & tackle nearby

No shops listed yet for this lake. Use the search link below.

Search more bait shops near Marshall County ↗

Local tips

Try the half-mile man-made fishing channel near the campground.
Bluegill, crappie and channel catfish are the commonly caught fish per IDNR.

Mautino State Fish and Wildlife AreaBureau County · 74.2 acres

Strip-mine lake

Mautino State Fish and Wildlife Area

Bureau County, Illinois

Mautino is a former strip mine in Bureau County, south of Sheffield and west of Buda. It has 16 small ponds and lakes, and Boss Lake and Osprey Lake are the largest.

Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors.

Surface area74.2 acres

Max depth45 ft

Shoreline—

Boat motorsElectric trolling motors only

Species

Fishery rating out of 5.

Largemouth Bass●●●●○

Main target in the deep strip-mine pits

Bluegill●●●●○

Weed beds and shallow flats in late spring.

Crappie●●●○○

Brush piles, docks and standing timber. Minnows or small jigs.

Redear Sunfish●●●○○

Shellcracker. Beds in spring and deep shell bars in summer. Red worms on the bottom.

Channel Catfish●●●○○

Cut bait and nightcrawlers on flats and creek mouths in the evening.

Boat launches

3 launch sites. Fees and hours change, so confirm before you go.

Boss Lake rampRamp
Boat ramp with an outdoor toilet.Directions ↗
Osprey Lake rampRamp
Boat ramp and fishing pier, with an outdoor toilet.Directions ↗
More public accessPublic
See the IDNR or lake website for all ramps and feesDirections ↗

Size & creel limits

Minimum size and daily limit for each species in Mautino State Fish and Wildlife Area are published by the state. Look up the current size and creel limits for this lake directly: Illinois Department of Natural Resources ↗

Rules change, so confirm current limits with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources before you fish.

Bait & tackle nearby

No shops listed yet for this lake. Use the search link below.

Search more bait shops near Mautino State Fish and Wildlife Area ↗

Local tips

Many banks are steep, so watch your footing when fishing from shore.
Bring your own drinking water. The site has none.
Hours are 5 AM to 10 PM from April 1 to October 31.

Mazonia LakesGrundy County · 576 acres

Strip-mine lake

Mazonia Lakes

Grundy County, Illinois

Mazonia is the Grundy County part of Mazonia-Braidwood State Fish and Wildlife Area, about 3 miles southeast of Braidwood. The site has more than 200 small strip-mine ponds.

Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors.

Surface area576 acres

Max depth—

Shoreline—

Boat motorsCheck local rules

Species

Fishery rating out of 5.

Largemouth Bass●●●●○

Weeds, docks and wood in the shallows.

Bluegill●●●●○

Weed beds and shallow flats in late spring.

Crappie●●●○○

Brush piles, docks and standing timber. Minnows or small jigs.

Channel Catfish●●●○○

Cut bait and nightcrawlers on flats and creek mouths in the evening.

Smallmouth Bass●●○○○

Rock, gravel and points. Tubes, jerkbaits and drop-shots.

Boat launches

2 launch sites. Fees and hours change, so confirm before you go.

Mazonia-Braidwood access roadsPublic
Walk-in and bank fishing at the ponds. Bullhead Lake is open to paddle craft only.Directions ↗
More public accessPublic
See the IDNR or lake website for all ramps and feesDirections ↗

Size & creel limits

Minimum size and daily limit for each species in Mazonia Lakes are published by the state. Look up the current size and creel limits for this lake directly: Illinois Department of Natural Resources ↗

Rules change, so confirm current limits with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources before you fish.

Bait & tackle nearby

No shops listed yet for this lake. Use the search link below.

Search more bait shops near Mazonia Lakes ↗

Local tips

Call the site office at 815-237-0063 for current closures.
Many ponds are small, so a kayak or bank walk works well.
Hunting seasons are busy, so check dates before you go.

McCullom LakeMcHenry County · 245 acres

Natural lake

McCullom Lake

McHenry County, Illinois

McCullom Lake is a shallow lake near McHenry in McHenry County. It has a public boat ramp on West Shore Drive.

Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors.

Surface area245 acres

Max depth9 ft

Shoreline—

Boat motorsCheck local rules

Species

Fishery rating out of 5.

Northern Pike●●●○○

Weed edges and bays. Spoons, spinnerbaits and tip-ups through the ice.

Channel Catfish●●●○○

Cut bait and nightcrawlers on flats and creek mouths in the evening.

Smallmouth Bass●●○○○

Rock, gravel and points. Tubes, jerkbaits and drop-shots.

Boat launches

2 launch sites. Fees and hours change, so confirm before you go.

McCullom Lake public rampRamp
Public boat ramp at 4904 W Shore Dr, McHenry.Directions ↗
More public accessPublic
See the IDNR or lake website for all ramps and feesDirections ↗

Size & creel limits

Minimum size and daily limit for each species in McCullom Lake are published by the state. Look up the current size and creel limits for this lake directly: Illinois Department of Natural Resources ↗

Rules change, so confirm current limits with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources before you fish.

Bait & tackle nearby

No shops listed yet for this lake. Use the search link below.

Search more bait shops near McCullom Lake ↗

Local tips

The lake is shallow, so use weedless baits in summer.
Check for horsepower limits before you launch.
Most of the shore is private, so use the ramp for access.

Mermet LakeMassac County · 452 acres

State park lake

Mermet Lake

Massac County, Illinois

Mermet Lake is a shallow cypress swamp lake on US 45 northwest of Metropolis in Massac County. It is known for largemouth bass, catfish and panfish.

Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors.

Surface area452 acres

Max depth—

Shoreline—

Boat motorsCheck local rules

Species

Fishery rating out of 5.

Largemouth Bass●●●●○

Weeds, docks and wood in the shallows.

Channel Catfish●●●○○

Cut bait and nightcrawlers on flats and creek mouths in the evening.

Bluegill●●●●○

Weed beds and shallow flats in late spring.

Crappie●●●○○

Brush piles, docks and standing timber. Minnows or small jigs.

Boat launches

2 launch sites. Fees and hours change, so confirm before you go.

Mermet State Lake rampRamp
Public boat ramp near Mermet.Directions ↗
More public accessPublic
See the IDNR or lake website for all ramps and feesDirections ↗

Size & creel limits

Minimum size and daily limit for each species in Mermet Lake are published by the state. Look up the current size and creel limits for this lake directly: Illinois Department of Natural Resources ↗

Rules change, so confirm current limits with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources before you fish.

Bait & tackle nearby

No shops listed yet for this lake. Use the search link below.

Search more bait shops near Mermet Lake ↗

Local tips

The lake closes to fishing in November for waterfowl season. It reopens in January.
Fish around cypress and wood cover for bass.
Check closures with the site before you drive.

Mill Creek LakeClark County · 811 acres

Reservoir

Mill Creek Lake

Clark County, Illinois

Mill Creek Lake is in Mill Creek Park, about 7 miles northwest of Marshall in Clark County. The park has 811 acres of water and a boat launch.

Surface area811 acres

Max depth—

Shoreline—

Boat motorsCheck local rules

Species

Fishery rating out of 5.

Largemouth Bass●●●○○

Weeds, docks and wood in the shallows.

Crappie●●●○○

Brush piles, docks and standing timber. Minnows or small jigs.

Bluegill●●●○○

Weed beds and shallow flats in late spring.

Channel Catfish●●●○○

Cut bait and nightcrawlers on flats and creek mouths in the evening.

Boat launches

2 launch sites. Fees and hours change, so confirm before you go.

Mill Creek Lake rampRamp
Public boat ramp in Mill Creek Park.Directions ↗
More public accessPublic
See the IDNR or lake website for all ramps and feesDirections ↗

Size & creel limits

Minimum size and daily limit for each species in Mill Creek Lake are published by the state. Look up the current size and creel limits for this lake directly: Illinois Department of Natural Resources ↗

Rules change, so confirm current limits with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources before you fish.

Bait & tackle nearby

No shops listed yet for this lake. Use the search link below.

Search more bait shops near Mill Creek Lake ↗

Local tips

Call the park about motor rules and ramp fees.
Park camping and cabins are on site.
Check the park for current lake conditions.

Murphysboro LakeJackson County · 144 acres

State park lake

Murphysboro Lake

Jackson County, Illinois

Murphysboro Lake is a 145-acre lake in Lake Murphysboro State Park in Jackson County, Illinois. It is known for catfish, bass, crappie and sunfish.

Surface area144 acres

Max depth—

Shoreline—

Boat motorsCheck local rules

Species

Fishery rating out of 5.

Largemouth Bass●●●○○

Weeds, docks and wood in the shallows.

Channel Catfish●●●○○

Cut bait and nightcrawlers on flats and creek mouths in the evening.

Crappie●●●○○

Brush piles, docks and standing timber. Minnows or small jigs.

Bluegill●●●○○

Weed beds and shallow flats in late spring.

Redear Sunfish●●●○○

Shellcracker. Beds in spring and deep shell bars in summer. Red worms on the bottom.

Boat launches

3 launch sites. Fees and hours change, so confirm before you go.

Lake Murphysboro boat rampRamp
Public boat ramp and water access at 921 Main Park Rd, MurphysboroDirections ↗
Accessible fishing pierPublic
Fishing pier in the state parkDirections ↗
More public accessPublic
See the IDNR or lake website for all ramps and feesDirections ↗

Size & creel limits

Minimum size and daily limit for each species in Murphysboro Lake are published by the state. Look up the current size and creel limits for this lake directly: Illinois Department of Natural Resources ↗

Rules change, so confirm current limits with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources before you fish.

Bait & tackle nearby

No shops listed yet for this lake. Use the search link below.

Search more bait shops near Murphysboro Lake ↗

Local tips

Fish the shaded coves and brush for crappie and bluegill.
Try cut bait or worms on the bottom for channel catfish.
Call the park at 618-684-2867 for current boating rules.

Newton LakeJasper County · 1,750 acres

Reservoir

Newton Lake

Jasper County, Illinois

Newton Lake is a large lake of about 1,775 acres in Jasper County, Illinois. It is a day use fish and wildlife area known for largemouth bass.

Surface area1,750 acres

Max depth—

Shoreline—

Boat motors25 HP limit

Species

Fishery rating out of 5.

Largemouth Bass●●●●○

18-inch minimum, 3 per day

Boat launches

2 launch sites. Fees and hours change, so confirm before you go.

South access rampRamp
Two-lane boat ramp at the south access areaDirections ↗
More public accessPublic
See the IDNR or lake website for all ramps and feesDirections ↗

Size & creel limits

Minimum size and daily limit for each species in Newton Lake are published by the state. Look up the current size and creel limits for this lake directly: Illinois Department of Natural Resources ↗

Rules change, so confirm current limits with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources before you fish.

Bait & tackle nearby

No shops listed yet for this lake. Use the search link below.

Search more bait shops near Newton Lake ↗

Local tips

Bass must be 18 inches or longer, so plan to release most fish.
Only two poles per angler and pole and line only.
Motors are limited to 25 HP, so plan for slower travel.

Otter LakeMacoupin County · 765 acres

Reservoir

Otter Lake

Macoupin County, Illinois

Otter Lake is a 765-acre lake in Macoupin County, about 6 miles west of Girard. It is managed for striped bass, crappie and muskie.

Surface area765 acres

Max depth—

Shoreline—

Boat motors115 HP limit, strictly enforced

Species

Fishery rating out of 5.

Crappie●●●○○

Brush piles, docks and standing timber. Minnows or small jigs.

Muskellunge●●●○○

Big baits along weed edges and rock bars, best in fall.

Striped Bass●●●○○

Follow shad schools. Live bait, umbrella rigs and topwater.

Boat launches

2 launch sites. Fees and hours change, so confirm before you go.

Otter Lake boat rampsRamp
Boat ramps listed for the lakeDirections ↗
More public accessPublic
See the IDNR or lake website for all ramps and feesDirections ↗

Size & creel limits

Minimum size and daily limit for each species in Otter Lake are published by the state. Look up the current size and creel limits for this lake directly: Illinois Department of Natural Resources ↗

Rules change, so confirm current limits with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources before you fish.

Bait & tackle nearby

No shops listed yet for this lake. Use the search link below.

Search more bait shops near Otter Lake ↗

Local tips

Riprap shoreline holds crappie in spring.
Keep motors at 115 HP or less.
Silt can cloud the water after rain, so check conditions first.

Paris Twin LakesEdgar County · 220 acres

City park lake

Paris Twin Lakes

Edgar County, Illinois

Paris Twin Lakes are two city park lakes at 30 Twin Lakes Drive in Paris, Edgar County. The park offers fishing, camping and picnic areas.

Surface area220 acres

Max depth—

Shoreline—

Boat motorsCheck local rules

Species

Fishery rating out of 5.

Largemouth Bass●●●○○

Weeds, docks and wood in the shallows.

Crappie●●●○○

Brush piles, docks and standing timber. Minnows or small jigs.

Bluegill●●●○○

Weed beds and shallow flats in late spring.

Boat launches

2 launch sites. Fees and hours change, so confirm before you go.

Twin Lakes ParkPublic
City park with fishing on the West Lake and a boat dock on the East LakeDirections ↗
More public accessPublic
See the IDNR or lake website for all ramps and feesDirections ↗

Size & creel limits

Minimum size and daily limit for each species in Paris Twin Lakes are published by the state. Look up the current size and creel limits for this lake directly: Illinois Department of Natural Resources ↗

Rules change, so confirm current limits with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources before you fish.

Bait & tackle nearby

No shops listed yet for this lake. Use the search link below.

Search more bait shops near Paris Twin Lakes ↗

Local tips

The West Lake is set up for bank fishing.
Call the park at 217-465-7601 before bringing a boat.
Check park rules for hours and fees.

Pierce LakeWinnebago County · 162 acres

State park lake

Pierce Lake

Winnebago County, Illinois

Pierce Lake is a lake of just under 150 acres in Rock Cut State Park near Rockford. It is known for walleye, muskie and bass.

Surface area162 acres

Max depth36 ft

Shoreline—

Boat motorsAny size motor allowed; over 10 HP must stay at no-wake speed

Species

Fishery rating out of 5.

Walleye●●●●○

Points, flats and reefs at low light. Jigs and live bait early, crankbaits and crawler harnesses in summer.

Largemouth Bass●●●●○

Weeds, docks and wood in the shallows.

Muskellunge●●●○○

Big baits along weed edges and rock bars, best in fall.

Northern Pike●●●○○

Weed edges and bays. Spoons, spinnerbaits and tip-ups through the ice.

Bluegill●●●○○

Weed beds and shallow flats in late spring.

Channel Catfish●●●○○

Cut bait and nightcrawlers on flats and creek mouths in the evening.

Boat launches

2 launch sites. Fees and hours change, so confirm before you go.

Pierce Lake rampsRamp
Two launching ramps and docksDirections ↗
More public accessPublic
See the IDNR or lake website for all ramps and feesDirections ↗

Size & creel limits

Minimum size and daily limit for each species in Pierce Lake are published by the state. Look up the current size and creel limits for this lake directly: Illinois Department of Natural Resources ↗

Rules change, so confirm current limits with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources before you fish.

Bait & tackle nearby

Closest shops to the lake and its boat launches. Call ahead for live bait and hours.

Rock Cut Concession at Pierce LakeNearby
Rock Cut State Park, Pierce Lake, Loves Park, IL815-885-4740 Directions ↗

Search more bait shops near Pierce Lake ↗

Local tips

Walleye are rated excellent here, so work the deeper edges.
Engines over 10 HP must run at no-wake speed.
Buy bait at the Rock Cut Concession during seasonal hours.

Powerton LakeTazewell County · 1,426 acres

Power-plant cooling lake

Powerton Lake

Tazewell County, Illinois

Powerton Lake is a 1,426-acre cooling lake two miles southwest of Pekin in Tazewell County, with an average depth of about 8 feet and minimal structure. Boat use is limited to fishing and waterfowl hunting.

Air temp in Pekin, IL Loading current temperature…

Current air temperature at Powerton Lake (National Weather Service) ↗

Surface area1,426 acres

Max depth18 ft

Shoreline—

Boat motorsUnlimited horsepower (gasoline engines required)

Species

Fishery rating out of 5.

Blue Catfish●●●●●

Fish 22-36 in sampled in 2024

Wiper●●●●○

Hybrid striped bass. Chase surface-feeding schools and points with wind.

Channel Catfish●●●○○

Cut bait and nightcrawlers on flats and creek mouths in the evening.

Smallmouth Bass●●●○○

Stocked in 2024

Largemouth Bass●●○○○

Weeds, docks and wood in the shallows.

Boat launches

2 launch sites. Fees and hours change, so confirm before you go.

South side boat rampRamp
Double concrete ramp with 90-car parking lotDirections ↗
More public accessPublic
See the IDNR or lake website for all ramps and feesDirections ↗

Size & creel limits

Special rules for this lake, confirmed from official state regulations. Minimum size and daily limit.

Species	Min size	Daily limit
Largemouth/Smallmouth Bass	18 in	1 / day
Hybrid Striped Bass No more than 3 fish 17 in or longer		10 / day
Catfish No more than 1 fish 35 in or longer		6 / day

Other species in this lake: look up the limits at Illinois Department of Natural Resources ↗

Verified October 2026. Rules change, so confirm current limits with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources before you fish.

Bait & tackle nearby

No shops listed yet for this lake. Use the search link below.

Search more bait shops near Powerton Lake ↗

Local tips

Boats are for fishing or waterfowl hunting only; no recreational boating, sailing, kayaks or canoes.
Lake is closed to boats during waterfowl season and fully closed to fishing for part of the late fall (2025: Oct 24 to Dec 21).
Two poles max, 2 hooks or lures per pole.

View on interactive map

Zoom and pan on a street, satellite or terrain map. Red pins are boat launches.

Pyramid LakesPerry County · 135 acres

State park lakes (strip-mine)

Pyramid Lakes

Perry County, Illinois

Pyramid State Park in Perry County has over 500 acres of water in many lakes and ponds. The largest is Super Lake at 276 acres.

Surface area135 acres

Max depth—

Shoreline—

Boat motorsMotorboats must run at no-wake speed

Species

Fishery rating out of 5.

Largemouth Bass●●●○○

Weeds, docks and wood in the shallows.

Crappie●●●○○

Brush piles, docks and standing timber. Minnows or small jigs.

Bluegill●●●○○

Weed beds and shallow flats in late spring.

Channel Catfish●●○○○

Present in some of the lakes

Redear Sunfish●●○○○

Present in some of the lakes

Boat launches

2 launch sites. Fees and hours change, so confirm before you go.

Boat ramps on the larger lakesRamp
All lakes can be reached on footDirections ↗
More public accessPublic
See the IDNR or lake website for all ramps and feesDirections ↗

Size & creel limits

Minimum size and daily limit for each species in Pyramid Lakes are published by the state. Look up the current size and creel limits for this lake directly: Illinois Department of Natural Resources ↗

Rules change, so confirm current limits with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources before you fish.

Bait & tackle nearby

No shops listed yet for this lake. Use the search link below.

Search more bait shops near Pyramid Lakes ↗

Local tips

Kayaks and canoes work well on these lakes.
No boat rentals are offered, so bring your own boat and life jackets.
Pick one lake and learn it, since the park has many waters of different sizes.

Raccoon LakeMarion County · 970 acres

Reservoir

Raccoon Lake

Marion County, Illinois

Raccoon Lake is about two miles northeast of Centralia in Marion County. The City of Centralia owns it, and it is shallow, averaging about 4 feet.

Surface area970 acres

Max depth17 ft

Shoreline16.4 mi

Boat motorsCheck local rules

Species

Fishery rating out of 5.

Crappie●●●●○

Brush piles, docks and standing timber. Minnows or small jigs.

Largemouth Bass●●●●○

Weeds, docks and wood in the shallows.

Bluegill●●●○○

Weed beds and shallow flats in late spring.

Channel Catfish●●●○○

Cut bait and nightcrawlers on flats and creek mouths in the evening.

Boat launches

3 launch sites. Fees and hours change, so confirm before you go.

Raccoon Lake marina and rampRamp
820 Country Club Rd, Centralia.Directions ↗
Fishing dockPublic
Partly ADA accessible.Directions ↗
More public accessPublic
See the IDNR or lake website for all ramps and feesDirections ↗

Size & creel limits

Minimum size and daily limit for each species in Raccoon Lake are published by the state. Look up the current size and creel limits for this lake directly: Illinois Department of Natural Resources ↗

Rules change, so confirm current limits with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources before you fish.

Bait & tackle nearby

No shops listed yet for this lake. Use the search link below.

Search more bait shops near Raccoon Lake ↗

Local tips

The lake is shallow, so use light line and weedless baits.
Muddy water is common, so try bright or noisy lures.
A powerboat race is held each year, so expect crowds then.

Randolph County LakeRandolph County · 65 acres

State recreation area lake

Randolph County Lake

Randolph County, Illinois

Randolph County Lake is a deep 65-acre lake in Randolph County State Recreation Area near Chester. It is stocked with trout in the fall.

Surface area65 acres

Max depth—

Shoreline—

Boat motors10 horsepower limit

Species

Fishery rating out of 5.

Largemouth Bass●●●○○

14-inch minimum noted in an IDNR article

Rainbow Trout●●●○○

Stocked in fall and survive in the cool deep water

Channel Catfish●●●○○

Cut bait and nightcrawlers on flats and creek mouths in the evening.

Crappie●●●○○

Brush piles, docks and standing timber. Minnows or small jigs.

Bluegill●●●○○

Weed beds and shallow flats in late spring.

Walleye●●○○○

Points, flats and reefs at low light. Jigs and live bait early, crankbaits and crawler harnesses in summer.

Boat launches

2 launch sites. Fees and hours change, so confirm before you go.

North boat launchRamp
Public ramp on the north endDirections ↗
More public accessPublic
See the IDNR or lake website for all ramps and feesDirections ↗

Size & creel limits

Minimum size and daily limit for each species in Randolph County Lake are published by the state. Look up the current size and creel limits for this lake directly: Illinois Department of Natural Resources ↗

Rules change, so confirm current limits with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources before you fish.

Bait & tackle nearby

No shops listed yet for this lake. Use the search link below.

Search more bait shops near Randolph County Lake ↗

Local tips

Fish deeper water for trout since the lake is deep and cool.
Bring bait with you. The nearby concession was closed when IDNR wrote about it, and Chester is about 5 miles away.
Limit is two poles per angler.

Rice LakeFulton County · 1,383 acres

Backwater lake / conservation area

Rice Lake

Fulton County, Illinois

Rice Lake comprises several shallow backwater lakes fed by groundwater and Illinois River overflow. Midsummer drawdowns leave Rice and Big lakes only about 12 to 16 inches deep in July and August, and low-oxygen fish kills can occur.

Air temp in Dunfermline, IL Loading current temperature…

Current air temperature at Rice Lake (National Weather Service) ↗

Surface area1,383 acres

Max depth—

Shoreline—

Boat motorsNo hp limit

Species

Fishery rating out of 5.

Channel Catfish●●●○○

Cut bait and nightcrawlers on flats and creek mouths in the evening.

Largemouth Bass●●○○○

12-inch minimum, 6 per day

Crappie●●○○○

Brush piles, docks and standing timber. Minnows or small jigs.

Bluegill●●○○○

Weed beds and shallow flats in late spring.

Boat launches

2 launch sites. Fees and hours change, so confirm before you go.

Rice Lake boat rampRamp
Boat ramp per IDNR; boat fishing prohibited October 1 - April 1Directions ↗
More public accessPublic
See the IDNR or lake website for all ramps and feesDirections ↗

Size & creel limits

Special rules for this lake, confirmed from official state regulations. Minimum size and daily limit.

Species	Min size	Daily limit
Largemouth Bass Minimum length 12 inches; 6 daily	12 in	6 / day

Other species in this lake: look up the limits at Illinois Department of Natural Resources ↗

Verified October 2026. Rules change, so confirm current limits with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources before you fish.

Bait & tackle nearby

No shops listed yet for this lake. Use the search link below.

Search more bait shops near Rice Lake ↗

Local tips

Boat fishing is not allowed October 1 through April 1
Water is very shallow in midsummer, so expect limited boat access then
Ice fishing is not permitted

View on interactive map

Zoom and pan on a street, satellite or terrain map. Red pins are boat launches.

Saganashkee SloughCook County · 325 acres

Forest preserve slough

Saganashkee Slough

Cook County, Illinois

Saganashkee Slough is a shallow slough in the Cook County Forest Preserves near Willow Springs. It connects to the Calumet-Sag Channel.

Surface area325 acres

Max depth—

Shoreline—

Boat motorsCheck local rules

Species

Fishery rating out of 5.

Largemouth Bass●●●○○

Weeds, docks and wood in the shallows.

Crappie●●●○○

Brush piles, docks and standing timber. Minnows or small jigs.

Northern Pike●●○○○

Weed edges and bays. Spoons, spinnerbaits and tip-ups through the ice.

Channel Catfish●●○○○

Cut bait and nightcrawlers on flats and creek mouths in the evening.

Boat launches

2 launch sites. Fees and hours change, so confirm before you go.

Saganashkee Slough boat launchRamp
10700 S 116th Ave, Willow SpringsDirections ↗
More public accessPublic
See the IDNR or lake website for all ramps and feesDirections ↗

Size & creel limits

Minimum size and daily limit for each species in Saganashkee Slough are published by the state. Look up the current size and creel limits for this lake directly: Illinois Department of Natural Resources ↗

Rules change, so confirm current limits with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources before you fish.

Bait & tackle nearby

No shops listed yet for this lake. Use the search link below.

Search more bait shops near Saganashkee Slough ↗

Local tips

The slough is shallow, averaging about 6.5 feet, so look for cover and drop-offs.
Check Forest Preserves of Cook County rules before launching.
Watch water levels, which change with the channel.

Sahara WoodsSaline County · 275 acres

Strip-mine lake

Sahara Woods

Saline County, Illinois

Sahara Woods is a state recreation area in Saline County with Sahara Lake and several strip-mine cuts. Sahara Lake is about 98 acres.

Surface area275 acres

Max depth—

Shoreline—

Boat motors10 horsepower on Sahara Lake; electric motors only on the other strip cuts

Species

Fishery rating out of 5.

Largemouth Bass●●●○○

Weeds, docks and wood in the shallows.

Crappie●●●○○

Brush piles, docks and standing timber. Minnows or small jigs.

Bluegill●●●○○

Weed beds and shallow flats in late spring.

Redear Sunfish●●●○○

Shellcracker. Beds in spring and deep shell bars in summer. Red worms on the bottom.

Channel Catfish●●●○○

Cut bait and nightcrawlers on flats and creek mouths in the evening.

Boat launches

3 launch sites. Fees and hours change, so confirm before you go.

Sahara Lake rampRamp
Handicap accessibleDirections ↗
Strip cut rampRamp
On a 15-acre cut east of the lakeDirections ↗
More public accessPublic
See the IDNR or lake website for all ramps and feesDirections ↗

Size & creel limits

Minimum size and daily limit for each species in Sahara Woods are published by the state. Look up the current size and creel limits for this lake directly: Illinois Department of Natural Resources ↗

Rules change, so confirm current limits with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources before you fish.

Bait & tackle nearby

No shops listed yet for this lake. Use the search link below.

Search more bait shops near Sahara Woods ↗

Local tips

Shorelines drop off steeply, so take care on the bank.
Canoes, kayaks and small boats can be carried in to cuts open to bank fishing.
Stay on open roads and parking lots and learn the site boundaries.

Sam Dale LakeWayne County · 194 acres

State fish and wildlife area lake

Sam Dale Lake

Wayne County, Illinois

Sam Dale Lake is a 194-acre lake in Wayne County. It is known for largemouth bass, channel catfish and redear sunfish.

Surface area194 acres

Max depth—

Shoreline—

Boat motors10 horsepower limit

Species

Fishery rating out of 5.

Largemouth Bass●●●●○

Bass up to 7 pounds seen most years per IDNR

Channel Catfish●●●●○

Stocked yearly; 7 to 8 pound fish are common

Redear Sunfish●●●○○

Shellcracker. Beds in spring and deep shell bars in summer. Red worms on the bottom.

Crappie●●●○○

White crappie, quality population

Bluegill●●●○○

Mostly small to medium

Muskellunge●●○○○

Stocked in past years

Boat launches

2 launch sites. Fees and hours change, so confirm before you go.

South shore launchRamp
Public ramp midway along the south shore; rental boats availableDirections ↗
More public accessPublic
See the IDNR or lake website for all ramps and feesDirections ↗

Size & creel limits

Minimum size and daily limit for each species in Sam Dale Lake are published by the state. Look up the current size and creel limits for this lake directly: Illinois Department of Natural Resources ↗

Rules change, so confirm current limits with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources before you fish.

Bait & tackle nearby

No shops listed yet for this lake. Use the search link below.

Search more bait shops near Sam Dale Lake ↗

Local tips

Nearly all the gently sloping shoreline is open to bank anglers.
Rental boats are available if you do not have one.
Bowfishing for carp is encouraged.

Sam Parr LakeJasper County · 180 acres

State fish and wildlife area lake

Sam Parr Lake

Jasper County, Illinois

Sam Parr Lake is a 183-acre lake in Jasper County near Newton. It has a maximum depth of 28 feet.

Surface area180 acres

Max depth28 ft

Shoreline—

Boat motors10 horsepower limit

Species

Fishery rating out of 5.

Largemouth Bass●●●○○

Weeds, docks and wood in the shallows.

Crappie●●●○○

Brush piles, docks and standing timber. Minnows or small jigs.

Bluegill●●●○○

Weed beds and shallow flats in late spring.

Channel Catfish●●●○○

Cut bait and nightcrawlers on flats and creek mouths in the evening.

Boat launches

3 launch sites. Fees and hours change, so confirm before you go.

North rampRamp
Public ramp on the north sideDirections ↗
South rampRamp
Public ramp on the south sideDirections ↗
More public accessPublic
See the IDNR or lake website for all ramps and feesDirections ↗

Size & creel limits

Minimum size and daily limit for each species in Sam Parr Lake are published by the state. Look up the current size and creel limits for this lake directly: Illinois Department of Natural Resources ↗

Rules change, so confirm current limits with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources before you fish.

Bait & tackle nearby

No shops listed yet for this lake. Use the search link below.

Search more bait shops near Sam Parr Lake ↗

Local tips

Boat dock rentals are available.
Bank access and parking are on the east side off a county road.
Ice fishing is allowed when conditions permit. Check with the site office.

SanganoisCass County · 1,550 acres

Backwater lake / fish and wildlife area

Sanganois

Cass County, Illinois

Sanganois State Fish & Wildlife Area near Chandlerville is a bottomland complex of sloughs, backwater lakes and timbered ponds along the Illinois River. IDNR's Places to Fish list shows 1,550 acres of fishing water at Sanganois Lakes with boat ramps available.

Surface area1,550 acres

Max depth—

Shoreline—

Boat motors10 h.p. limit

Species

Fishery rating out of 5.

Boat launches

2 launch sites. Fees and hours change, so confirm before you go.

Sanganois SFWA boat rampRamp
IDNR Places to Fish lists boat ramps available; exact location not confirmedDirections ↗
More public accessPublic
See the IDNR or lake website for all ramps and feesDirections ↗

Size & creel limits

Minimum size and daily limit for each species in Sanganois are published by the state. Look up the current size and creel limits for this lake directly: Illinois Department of Natural Resources ↗

Rules change, so confirm current limits with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources before you fish.

Bait & tackle nearby

No shops listed yet for this lake. Use the search link below.

Search more bait shops near Sanganois ↗

Local tips

Fishing in the impoundment areas is prohibited during duck season, except bank fishing after 1:00 p.m.

Sangchris LakeChristian County · 2,165 acres

State park lake (cooling reservoir)

Sangchris Lake

Christian County, Illinois

Sangchris Lake is a roughly 2,300-acre lake at Sangchris Lake State Park in Christian County, east of Springfield, designated a State Fish Preserve in 1972. Average depth is about 13 feet with about 100 miles of shoreline.

Air temp in Tovey, IL Loading current temperature…

Current air temperature at Sangchris Lake (National Weather Service) ↗

Surface area2,165 acres

Max depth38 ft

Shoreline100 mi

Boat motorsFull speed up to 25 hp; motors over 25 hp no-wake only

Species

Fishery rating out of 5.

Largemouth Bass●●●●○

Weeds, docks and wood in the shallows.

Striped Bass●●●●○

Follow shad schools. Live bait, umbrella rigs and topwater.

Flathead Catfish●●●●○

Live bait around wood and rock at night.

Channel Catfish●●●●○

Cut bait and nightcrawlers on flats and creek mouths in the evening.

Crappie●●●○○

Improving

Bluegill●●●○○

Weed beds and shallow flats in late spring.

White Bass●●○○○

Low numbers

Boat launches

4 launch sites. Fees and hours change, so confirm before you go.

East RampRamp
State park boat launchDirections ↗
West RampRamp
State park boat launchDirections ↗
Strawkus RampRamp
State park boat launchDirections ↗
More public accessPublic
See the IDNR or lake website for all ramps and feesDirections ↗

Size & creel limits

Minimum size and daily limit for each species in Sangchris Lake are published by the state. Look up the current size and creel limits for this lake directly: Illinois Department of Natural Resources ↗

Rules change, so confirm current limits with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources before you fish.

Bait & tackle nearby

No shops listed yet for this lake. Use the search link below.

Search more bait shops near Sangchris Lake ↗

Local tips

Trotlines, jug fishing and bank poles are prohibited; two poles with 2 hooks or lures each.
East and west arms are closed to fishing from 10 days before duck season through the end of duck season.
Fishing tournaments must be scheduled through the park office.

View on interactive map

Zoom and pan on a street, satellite or terrain map. Red pins are boat launches.

Schuy-Rush LakeSchuyler County · 220 acres

Reservoir

Schuy-Rush Lake

Schuyler County, Illinois

Schuy-Rush Lake is a flood control lake by Rushville in Schuyler County. It is known for muskie stocked to thin out small panfish, plus bass and bluegill.

Surface area220 acres

Max depth40 ft

Shoreline12 mi

Boat motorsCheck local rules

Species

Fishery rating out of 5.

Muskellunge●●●○○

Stocked starting in 2006

Largemouth Bass●●●○○

Weeds, docks and wood in the shallows.

Bluegill●●●○○

Many small fish

Crappie●●●○○

Brush piles, docks and standing timber. Minnows or small jigs.

Channel Catfish●●●○○

Cut bait and nightcrawlers on flats and creek mouths in the evening.

Sauger●●○○○

River current and deep holes. Jigs and minnows in cold water.

Boat launches

3 launch sites. Fees and hours change, so confirm before you go.

Schuy-Rush Lake boat rampRamp
One concrete ramp on the northwest side. A boating permit is sold through the campground host.Directions ↗
City park and camping areaPublic
Small park at the north end of the lakeDirections ↗
More public accessPublic
See the IDNR or lake website for all ramps and feesDirections ↗

Size & creel limits

Minimum size and daily limit for each species in Schuy-Rush Lake are published by the state. Look up the current size and creel limits for this lake directly: Illinois Department of Natural Resources ↗

Rules change, so confirm current limits with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources before you fish.

Bait & tackle nearby

No shops listed yet for this lake. Use the search link below.

Search more bait shops near Schuy-Rush Lake ↗

Local tips

Buy the boating permit from the campground host before launching.
Bluegill are plentiful but often small, so move around to find bigger ones.
Silt has filled in the upper end near the Route 67 bridge, so watch the depth there.

Shabbona LakeDeKalb County · 319 acres

State park lake

Shabbona Lake

DeKalb County, Illinois

Shabbona Lake is in Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area in DeKalb County. It is called the Muskie Capitol of Illinois and has produced six state record fish.

Surface area319 acres

Max depth—

Shoreline—

Boat motorsNo-wake speed for all motors; upper 18-acre area is electric motors or rowing only

Species

Fishery rating out of 5.

Muskellunge●●●●○

Lake has produced four state records

Largemouth Bass●●●○○

Weeds, docks and wood in the shallows.

Walleye●●●○○

Points, flats and reefs at low light. Jigs and live bait early, crankbaits and crawler harnesses in summer.

Crappie●●●○○

Hybrid crappie records also came from here

Bluegill●●●○○

Weed beds and shallow flats in late spring.

Smallmouth Bass●●○○○

Rock, gravel and points. Tubes, jerkbaits and drop-shots.

Boat launches

5 launch sites. Fees and hours change, so confirm before you go.

Day-use area rampRamp
Double-lane launch rampDirections ↗
Campground rampRamp
Single-lane rampDirections ↗
Boondock Supply concessionMarina
Bait, tackle and boat rentals on siteDirections ↗
Upper fishing areaPublic
18 acres, electric trolling motors or rowing onlyDirections ↗
More public accessPublic
See the IDNR or lake website for all ramps and feesDirections ↗

Size & creel limits

Minimum size and daily limit for each species in Shabbona Lake are published by the state. Look up the current size and creel limits for this lake directly: Illinois Department of Natural Resources ↗

Rules change, so confirm current limits with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources before you fish.

Bait & tackle nearby

Closest shops to the lake and its boat launches. Call ahead for live bait and hours.

Boondock Supply (Shabbona Lake State Park concession)Nearby
Shabbona Lake State Park, Shabbona, IL815-824-2581 Directions ↗

Search more bait shops near Shabbona Lake ↗

Local tips

Plan on a slow no-wake pace for the whole lake.
Bank and pier fishing are popular if you have no boat.
Swimming and wading are not allowed, so stay on shore or in a boat.

Siloam Springs LakeAdams County · 58 acres

State park lake

Siloam Springs Lake

Adams County, Illinois

Siloam Springs Lake is in Siloam Springs State Park in Adams County. It is a 58-acre lake built in the 1950s and managed as a fish preserve.

Surface area58 acres

Max depth45 ft

Shoreline—

Boat motorsElectric motors only; no outboards

Species

Fishery rating out of 5.

Largemouth Bass●●●○○

Weeds, docks and wood in the shallows.

Bluegill●●●○○

Weed beds and shallow flats in late spring.

Redear Sunfish●●●○○

Shellcracker. Beds in spring and deep shell bars in summer. Red worms on the bottom.

Crappie●●●○○

Brush piles, docks and standing timber. Minnows or small jigs.

Channel Catfish●●●○○

Cut bait and nightcrawlers on flats and creek mouths in the evening.

Rainbow Trout●●○○○

Stocked; trout stamp needed

Boat launches

4 launch sites. Fees and hours change, so confirm before you go.

Main launch rampRamp
Southeast side of the lakeDirections ↗
Cartop launchRamp
Northeast side, good for canoes and kayaksDirections ↗
Fishing piers and bank areasPublic
Several piers and shore spotsDirections ↗
More public accessPublic
See the IDNR or lake website for all ramps and feesDirections ↗

Size & creel limits

Minimum size and daily limit for each species in Siloam Springs Lake are published by the state. Look up the current size and creel limits for this lake directly: Illinois Department of Natural Resources ↗

Rules change, so confirm current limits with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources before you fish.

Bait & tackle nearby

No shops listed yet for this lake. Use the search link below.

Search more bait shops near Siloam Springs Lake ↗

Local tips

Use only two poles and four hooks per angler.
You need an inland trout stamp to keep trout.
Kids 16 and under can use the Family Fishing Pond.

Silver LakeDuPage County · 62 acres

Forest preserve lake

Silver Lake

DuPage County, Illinois

Silver Lake is in Blackwell Forest Preserve in DuPage County. It is stocked with rainbow trout each spring and fall.

Surface area62 acres

Max depth—

Shoreline—

Boat motorsElectric motors only; no gas motors

Species

Fishery rating out of 5.

Rainbow Trout●●●○○

Stocked spring and fall

Largemouth Bass●●●○○

Weeds, docks and wood in the shallows.

Bluegill●●●○○

Weed beds and shallow flats in late spring.

Channel Catfish●●○○○

Cut bait and nightcrawlers on flats and creek mouths in the evening.

Crappie●●○○○

Brush piles, docks and standing timber. Minnows or small jigs.

Northern Pike●●○○○

Weed edges and bays. Spoons, spinnerbaits and tip-ups through the ice.

Boat launches

2 launch sites. Fees and hours change, so confirm before you go.

Silver Lake boat launchRamp
For canoes, kayaks and other non-gas craft. Open March 1 to Nov 30. Forest preserve boating permit required.Directions ↗
More public accessPublic
See the IDNR or lake website for all ramps and feesDirections ↗

Size & creel limits

Minimum size and daily limit for each species in Silver Lake are published by the state. Look up the current size and creel limits for this lake directly: Illinois Department of Natural Resources ↗

Rules change, so confirm current limits with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources before you fish.

Bait & tackle nearby

No shops listed yet for this lake. Use the search link below.

Search more bait shops near Silver Lake ↗

Local tips

Buy a daily or annual boating permit before you launch.
Be off the water by sunset.
Fish the trout stocking times in spring and fall for the best action.

Skokie LagoonsCook County · 190 acres

Forest preserve lagoons

Skokie Lagoons

Cook County, Illinois

Skokie Lagoons is a chain of seven connected lagoons in Cook County near Glencoe and Winnetka. It is a shallow, popular spot for paddling and fishing.

Surface area190 acres

Max depth10 ft

Shoreline—

Boat motorsNon-gas boats only at the launch

Species

Fishery rating out of 5.

Largemouth Bass●●●○○

Weeds, docks and wood in the shallows.

Walleye●●●○○

Stocked

Northern Pike●●●○○

Weed edges and bays. Spoons, spinnerbaits and tip-ups through the ice.

Channel Catfish●●●○○

Cut bait and nightcrawlers on flats and creek mouths in the evening.

Bluegill●●●○○

Weed beds and shallow flats in late spring.

Crappie●●●○○

Brush piles, docks and standing timber. Minnows or small jigs.

Boat launches

3 launch sites. Fees and hours change, so confirm before you go.

Tower Road boat launchRamp
Accessible ramp at Lagoon 3 for non-gas-powered boatsDirections ↗
ShorelinePublic
Bank fishing around the lagoonsDirections ↗
More public accessPublic
See the IDNR or lake website for all ramps and feesDirections ↗

Size & creel limits

Minimum size and daily limit for each species in Skokie Lagoons are published by the state. Look up the current size and creel limits for this lake directly: Illinois Department of Natural Resources ↗

Rules change, so confirm current limits with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources before you fish.

Bait & tackle nearby

No shops listed yet for this lake. Use the search link below.

Search more bait shops near Skokie Lagoons ↗

Local tips

Kayaks help you reach less crowded water.
Boat rentals are offered April through October.
The water is shallow, about 10 feet at most.

Spring Lake NorthTazewell County · 578 acres

State fish and wildlife area lake

Spring Lake North

Tazewell County, Illinois

Spring Lake North is in Spring Lake State Fish and Wildlife Area in Tazewell County near Manito. The lake is shallow and spring fed, and it is stocked with muskie.

Surface area578 acres

Max depth10 ft

Shoreline—

Boat motors25 horsepower limit

Species

Fishery rating out of 5.

Largemouth Bass●●●○○

Weeds, docks and wood in the shallows.

Muskellunge●●●○○

Muskie are spawned at Jake Wolf Hatchery

Bluegill●●●○○

Weed beds and shallow flats in late spring.

Crappie●●●○○

Brush piles, docks and standing timber. Minnows or small jigs.

Channel Catfish●●●○○

Cut bait and nightcrawlers on flats and creek mouths in the evening.

Boat launches

3 launch sites. Fees and hours change, so confirm before you go.

North lake concrete rampRamp
One concrete rampDirections ↗
North lake gravel rampRamp
One gravel rampDirections ↗
More public accessPublic
See the IDNR or lake website for all ramps and feesDirections ↗

Size & creel limits

Minimum size and daily limit for each species in Spring Lake North are published by the state. Look up the current size and creel limits for this lake directly: Illinois Department of Natural Resources ↗

Rules change, so confirm current limits with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources before you fish.

Bait & tackle nearby

No shops listed yet for this lake. Use the search link below.

Search more bait shops near Spring Lake North ↗

Local tips

The lake is shallow, so watch for stumps and shallow water.
Ice fishing is allowed but underwater springs can weaken the ice.
Boat rentals are at the south lake ramp.

Spring Lake SouthTazewell County · 610 acres

State park lake

Spring Lake South

Tazewell County, Illinois

Spring Lake South is the south lake at Spring Lake State Fish and Wildlife Area in Tazewell County, near Manito. It is known for bass, bluegill and crappie fishing.

Surface area610 acres

Max depth—

Shoreline—

Boat motors25 horsepower limit

Species

Fishery rating out of 5.

Largemouth Bass●●●●○

Weeds, docks and wood in the shallows.

Bluegill●●●●○

Weed beds and shallow flats in late spring.

Crappie●●●○○

Brush piles, docks and standing timber. Minnows or small jigs.

Channel Catfish●●●○○

Cut bait and nightcrawlers on flats and creek mouths in the evening.

Northern Pike●●○○○

Listed for the south lake

Boat launches

2 launch sites. Fees and hours change, so confirm before you go.

South lake rampRamp
One concrete boat ramp. Boats can be rented near the ramp.Directions ↗
More public accessPublic
See the IDNR or lake website for all ramps and feesDirections ↗

Size & creel limits

Minimum size and daily limit for each species in Spring Lake South are published by the state. Look up the current size and creel limits for this lake directly: Illinois Department of Natural Resources ↗

Rules change, so confirm current limits with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources before you fish.

Bait & tackle nearby

No shops listed yet for this lake. Use the search link below.

Search more bait shops near Spring Lake South ↗

Local tips

Keep motors at 25 horsepower or less.
Ice fishing is allowed, but underwater springs can thin the ice.
Check creel and length limits before you fish.

Tampier LakeCook County · 160 acres

Forest preserve lake

Tampier Lake

Cook County, Illinois

Tampier Lake is a Cook County forest preserve lake near Orland Park, off West 131st Street. It is shallow and popular for small boats and ice fishing.

Surface area160 acres

Max depth9.4 ft

Shoreline—

Boat motorsElectric trolling motors only

Species

Fishery rating out of 5.

Largemouth Bass●●●○○

Weeds, docks and wood in the shallows.

Bluegill●●●○○

Weed beds and shallow flats in late spring.

Channel Catfish●●●○○

Cut bait and nightcrawlers on flats and creek mouths in the evening.

Crappie●●○○○

Brush piles, docks and standing timber. Minnows or small jigs.

Boat launches

3 launch sites. Fees and hours change, so confirm before you go.

Tampier Lake Boating CenterRamp
Trailered launch for canoes, kayaks, rowboats and boats with electric trolling motors. Boat rentals and bait on site. Phone 708-830-5194.Directions ↗
Tampier Lake WestPublic
Fishing access off South Will Cook Road, south of 131st Street.Directions ↗
More public accessPublic
See the IDNR or lake website for all ramps and feesDirections ↗

Size & creel limits

Minimum size and daily limit for each species in Tampier Lake are published by the state. Look up the current size and creel limits for this lake directly: Illinois Department of Natural Resources ↗

Rules change, so confirm current limits with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources before you fish.

Bait & tackle nearby

Closest shops to the lake and its boat launches. Call ahead for live bait and hours.

Tampier Lake Boating CenterNearby
W 131st St west of S Wolf Rd, Orland Park, IL 60467708-830-5194 Directions ↗

Search more bait shops near Tampier Lake ↗

Local tips

Fishing is not allowed north of the power lines.
Boats are not allowed north of 131st Street.
The lake is shallow, so work weed edges and cover.

Ten Mile Creek LakeJefferson County · 200 acres

Strip-mine lake

Ten Mile Creek Lake

Jefferson County, Illinois

Ten Mile Creek is a state fish and wildlife area in Jefferson County with several strip pit lakes. Anglers go there for bass, crappie, bluegill and catfish.

Surface area200 acres

Max depth—

Shoreline—

Boat motors10 horsepower limit

Species

Fishery rating out of 5.

Largemouth Bass●●●●○

Weeds, docks and wood in the shallows.

Crappie●●●○○

Brush piles, docks and standing timber. Minnows or small jigs.

Bluegill●●●●○

Weed beds and shallow flats in late spring.

Channel Catfish●●●○○

Cut bait and nightcrawlers on flats and creek mouths in the evening.

Boat launches

2 launch sites. Fees and hours change, so confirm before you go.

Concrete boat rampsRamp
Five concrete ramps serve the strip pit lakes, plus gravel ramps and parking areas.Directions ↗
More public accessPublic
See the IDNR or lake website for all ramps and feesDirections ↗

Size & creel limits

Minimum size and daily limit for each species in Ten Mile Creek Lake are published by the state. Look up the current size and creel limits for this lake directly: Illinois Department of Natural Resources ↗

Rules change, so confirm current limits with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources before you fish.

Bait & tackle nearby

No shops listed yet for this lake. Use the search link below.

Search more bait shops near Ten Mile Creek Lake ↗

Local tips

Motors are limited to 10 horsepower.
Only two poles per angler are allowed.
Check the fishing guide for creel limits.

Walnut Point LakeDouglas County · 59 acres

State park lake

Walnut Point Lake

Douglas County, Illinois

Walnut Point Lake is in Walnut Point State Park in Douglas County, near the Embarras River bottomlands. The lake has many fingerlike coves.

Surface area59 acres

Max depth—

Shoreline—

Boat motorsCheck local rules

Species

Fishery rating out of 5.

Largemouth Bass●●●●○

Weeds, docks and wood in the shallows.

Bluegill●●●●○

Weed beds and shallow flats in late spring.

Crappie●●●○○

Brush piles, docks and standing timber. Minnows or small jigs.

Redear Sunfish●●●○○

Shellcracker. Beds in spring and deep shell bars in summer. Red worms on the bottom.

Channel Catfish●●●○○

Cut bait and nightcrawlers on flats and creek mouths in the evening.

Boat launches

2 launch sites. Fees and hours change, so confirm before you go.

Boat launchesRamp
Two single-lane launches with floating docks and fixed piers.Directions ↗
More public accessPublic
See the IDNR or lake website for all ramps and feesDirections ↗

Size & creel limits

Minimum size and daily limit for each species in Walnut Point Lake are published by the state. Look up the current size and creel limits for this lake directly: Illinois Department of Natural Resources ↗

Rules change, so confirm current limits with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources before you fish.

Bait & tackle nearby

No shops listed yet for this lake. Use the search link below.

Search more bait shops near Walnut Point Lake ↗

Local tips

Only pole-and-line fishing is allowed.
Fish the coves for bass and panfish.
Call the park office for current conditions.

Washington County LakeWashington County · 247 acres

State park lake

Washington County Lake

Washington County, Illinois

Washington County Lake is in Washington County State Recreation Area, about four miles south of Nashville. The lake covers about 248 acres.

Surface area247 acres

Max depth—

Shoreline—

Boat motorsCheck local rules

Species

Fishery rating out of 5.

Largemouth Bass●●●○○

Weeds, docks and wood in the shallows.

Bluegill●●●○○

Weed beds and shallow flats in late spring.

Channel Catfish●●●○○

Cut bait and nightcrawlers on flats and creek mouths in the evening.

Crappie●●●○○

Brush piles, docks and standing timber. Minnows or small jigs.

Boat launches

2 launch sites. Fees and hours change, so confirm before you go.

Washington County State Recreation AreaPublic
Public lake access at 18500 Conservation Drive, Nashville. Phone 618-327-3137.Directions ↗
More public accessPublic
See the IDNR or lake website for all ramps and feesDirections ↗

Size & creel limits

Minimum size and daily limit for each species in Washington County Lake are published by the state. Look up the current size and creel limits for this lake directly: Illinois Department of Natural Resources ↗

Rules change, so confirm current limits with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources before you fish.

Bait & tackle nearby

No shops listed yet for this lake. Use the search link below.

Search more bait shops near Washington County Lake ↗

Local tips

Call 618-327-3137 for current ramp and lake conditions.
Check the fishing guide for limits.
Fish the shoreline cover early in the day.

Wolf LakeCook County · 391 acres

State park lake

Wolf Lake

Cook County, Illinois

Wolf Lake is part of William W. Powers State Recreation Area on Chicago's far southeast side, on the Illinois-Indiana line. It has a wide mix of game fish.

Surface area391 acres

Max depth—

Shoreline—

Boat motors10 horsepower limit

Species

Fishery rating out of 5.

Largemouth Bass●●●●○

Weeds, docks and wood in the shallows.

Northern Pike●●●○○

Weed edges and bays. Spoons, spinnerbaits and tip-ups through the ice.

Walleye●●●○○

Points, flats and reefs at low light. Jigs and live bait early, crankbaits and crawler harnesses in summer.

Bluegill●●●●○

Weed beds and shallow flats in late spring.

Crappie●●●○○

Brush piles, docks and standing timber. Minnows or small jigs.

Yellow Perch●●●○○

Schools on mud and sand flats. Great through the ice.

Boat launches

3 launch sites. Fees and hours change, so confirm before you go.

Boat rampsRamp
Three launch ramps north of the main entrance at 123rd Street and Avenue O.Directions ↗
ShorelinePublic
About six miles of shoreline open to bank fishing.Directions ↗
More public accessPublic
See the IDNR or lake website for all ramps and feesDirections ↗

Size & creel limits

Minimum size and daily limit for each species in Wolf Lake are published by the state. Look up the current size and creel limits for this lake directly: Illinois Department of Natural Resources ↗

Rules change, so confirm current limits with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources before you fish.

Bait & tackle nearby

No shops listed yet for this lake. Use the search link below.

Search more bait shops near Wolf Lake ↗

Local tips

Motors are limited to 10 horsepower.
Bank access is easy along about six miles of shore.
Ice fishing is allowed when ice is thick enough.

Woodford CountyWoodford County · 2,790 acres

Backwater lake / conservation area

Woodford County

Woodford County, Illinois

Woodford State Fish & Wildlife Area fishing water includes Upper Peoria Lake and Goose Lake on the Illinois River plus 3,475 feet of man-made fishing channels. IDNR's Places to Fish list shows 2,790 acres with boat ramps and no horsepower limit.

Surface area2,790 acres

Max depth—

Shoreline—

Boat motorsNo horsepower limit

Species

Fishery rating out of 5.

Crappie●●●○○

Abundant late winter and early spring in the channels

Boat launches

2 launch sites. Fees and hours change, so confirm before you go.

Woodford SFWA public boat rampPublic
Public ramp and boat docks; large boats cannot navigate the shallow backwater lakesDirections ↗
More public accessPublic
See the IDNR or lake website for all ramps and feesDirections ↗

Size & creel limits

Minimum size and daily limit for each species in Woodford County are published by the state. Look up the current size and creel limits for this lake directly: Illinois Department of Natural Resources ↗

Rules change, so confirm current limits with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources before you fish.

Bait & tackle nearby

No shops listed yet for this lake. Use the search link below.

Search more bait shops near Woodford County ↗

Local tips

Artesian wells keep the man-made channels ice-free, making them a good winter fishing spot.
Large boats cannot navigate the shallow backwater lakes.

Illinois Fishing Lakes

Anderson Lake

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Lake Bloomington

Braidwood Lake

Busse Lake

Lake Carlton

Carlyle Lake

Cedar Lake

Lake Centralia

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Lake Chautauqua

Clinton Lake

Coffeen Lake

Crab Orchard Lake

Dawson Lake

Lake Decatur

Devil's Kitchen Lake

Dolan Lake

Dutchman Lake

East Fork Lake

Evergreen Lake

Forbes Lake

Fox Chain O'Lakes

Frank Holten Lakes

Lake George

Glenn Shoals Lake

Governor Bond Lake

Heidecke Lake

Homer Lake

Horseshoe Lake (Madison County)

Lake Jacksonville

Johnson Sauk Lake

Jones Lake

Kickapoo Lakes

Kinkaid Lake

LaSalle Lake

Lincoln Trail Lake

Little Grassy Lake

Lou Yaeger Lake

Lyerla Lake

Marshall County

Lake Mattoon

Mautino State Fish and Wildlife Area

Mazonia Lakes

McCullom Lake

Mermet Lake

Mill Creek Lake

Lake Mingo

Murphysboro Lake

Newton Lake

Lake of Egypt

Otter Lake

Paris Twin Lakes

Pierce Lake

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Powerton Lake

Pyramid Lakes

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Randolph County Lake

Rend Lake

Rice Lake

Saganashkee Slough

Sahara Woods

Sam Dale Lake

Sam Parr Lake

Sanganois

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Lake Sara

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Lake Shelbyville

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Silver Lake

Skokie Lagoons

Spring Lake North

Spring Lake South

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