Illinois has over 2,900 lakes (the vast majority man-made) and more than 84,000 ponds. Lake Michigan provides world-class salmon and trout fishing along 63 miles of shoreline. From the Chain O'Lakes to Carlyle Lake, the Prairie State offers incredible fishing diversity.
Fishing Regulations
- Statewide limits apply except where site-specific regulations are more restrictive (posted at boat launches).
- Endangered and threatened species may not be taken.
- Sport fishing devices limited to 2 untagged devices under immediate control; trotlines max 50 hooks, checked every 24 hrs, tagged with name/address.
- Transporting live aquatic life between waters is prohibited; AIS prevention (drain all water).
- Snagging seasons: Sep 15 - Dec 15 and Mar 15 - May 15 below locks/dams on Illinois and Mississippi rivers.
10 species limits are shown per spot in the CatchTales app.
Pick a region below to explore its fishing spots.
Central Illinois Region
Lake Springfield Inlet, Clinton Lake, Shelbyville Lake, Decatur Lake
40 spots
Eastern Illinois Region
Lake Vermilion Inlet, Kickapoo Park, Wabash River, Embarras River
40 spots
Northern Illinois & Chicago Region
Lake Michigan Inlet, Chain O'Lakes, Fox River, Chicago River
60 spots
Northwestern Illinois Region
Rock River Inlet, Pecatonica River, Apple River, Shabbona Lake
40 spots
Southern Illinois Region
Rend Lake Inlet, Carlyle Lake, Kinkaid Lake, Crab Orchard Lake
40 spots
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