Illinois offers a wide range of fishing lakes, each with its own appeal for anglers. To create this list of the top 30 fishing lakes in the state, I drew on my own fishing experience and reached out to local anglers for their insights. We also polled our social media followers to gather their opinions on the best spots. This combination of personal knowledge, community input, and online feedback helped us identify lakes that stand out for their fish populations, accessibility, and overall fishing experience.
Whether you’re after bass, crappie, catfish, or walleye, these lakes offer something for every skill level. From large reservoirs to smaller waters, our list covers diverse locations across Illinois, highlighting what makes each one worth a visit. This article aims to guide anglers to reliable fishing destinations based on real-world input from those who know these waters best.
30. Lake Sara
Lake Sara, located just west of Effingham, is a 640-acre reservoir built in the mid-20th century for water supply and recreation. It has developed into a well-known fishing spot for largemouth bass, crappie, catfish, and bluegill. The lake’s shoreline is a mix of wooded stretches, residential areas, and open points, giving anglers a range of water to cover. Boats of all sizes are allowed, and several marinas and ramps make access easy. With its many coves and deep channels, Lake Sara offers good fishing throughout the year. It’s a solid choice for anglers who want plenty of room to explore.
29. Maple Lake
Maple Lake, part of the Forest Preserves of Cook County near Palos Park, is a smaller, easy-to-reach fishing spot just outside Chicago. The lake covers around 60 acres and offers fishing for largemouth bass, bluegill, crappie, and catfish. Its simple shape and mostly wooded shoreline give anglers a mix of open casting spots and shaded areas. Only electric motors are allowed, helping keep the water calm. A public boat launch and several shoreline access points make it easy for both boaters and bank anglers. Maple Lake is a practical choice for anyone looking for a quick fishing trip without leaving the city behind.
28. Busse Lake
Busse Lake, located in the Ned Brown Preserve near Elk Grove Village, is a popular fishing spot in the Chicago suburbs. Covering about 457 acres, the lake is broken into several pools connected by channels, offering a mix of open water and sheltered fishing areas. Anglers can catch largemouth bass, northern pike, walleye, catfish, and bluegill. Electric motors are allowed, and boat rentals are available seasonally. Several fishing walls and piers make it easy for bank anglers to find a place to cast. Busse Lake’s varied layout gives both beginners and experienced anglers plenty of options for a full day outside.
27. Sangchris Lake
Sangchris Lake, located southeast of Springfield, is a 2,165-acre reservoir built to serve a power station but now known for strong fishing. The lake’s winding arms and sheltered coves give anglers plenty of spots to target bass, crappie, catfish, and sunfish. Unlike some cooling lakes, Sangchris has a speed limit for boats, keeping the water calmer and fishing conditions steady. Shallow flats, drop-offs, and submerged timber offer good structure for finding fish year-round. Shore access is decent in many areas, and boat ramps are available on both ends of the lake. Sangchris Lake is a steady choice for serious anglers.
26. Coffeen Lake
Coffeen Lake sits in central Illinois and offers dependable fishing all year. Built as a cooling lake, its warmer waters help support large bass, catfish, and crappie populations. Covering about 1,100 acres, the lake has a mix of shallow coves and deeper channels that attract fish at different times of year. Motors of 25 horsepower or less are allowed to operate on the Coffeen Lake. Shore anglers can also find good spots along the edges. With fewer crowds compared to other lakes, Coffeen is a solid choice for those who want steady fishing and a wide variety of species to target.
25. Davis Lake
Davis Lake, part of the larger Sam Dale Lake State Fish and Wildlife Area in southern Illinois, covers about 95 acres and is known for steady fishing. Largemouth bass, bluegill, crappie, and channel catfish are the main targets here. The lake has a simple layout, with some coves, gradual banks, and a few brush piles placed to attract fish. Bank fishing is easy with plenty of cleared areas around the shoreline. Small boats and electric motors are allowed, keeping the pace slow and steady. Davis Lake is a good choice for anglers looking for a quiet spot with reliable fishing action.
24. Snakeden Hollow Lakes and Ponds
Snakeden Hollow, located near Victoria in western Illinois, is made up of more than 100 lakes and ponds scattered across an old strip mine site. Water bodies range from tiny pools to lakes over 100 acres, creating a wide variety of fishing options. Anglers can target bass, bluegill, crappie, muskie, and catfish, with each spot offering different challenges. Many ponds are walk-in only, giving anglers a chance to fish quiet areas away from heavy traffic. Boats are allowed on the larger lakes, but only with electric motors. Snakeden Hollow is a good place for anglers who like exploring new waters.
23. Gridley Lake
Gridley Lake, part of the larger Mazonia-Braidwood State Fish and Wildlife Area, offers a smaller, quieter fishing experience compared to nearby lakes. It covers about 70 acres and was formed from old strip mine operations, giving it a unique shape with deep pockets and uneven shorelines. Anglers target largemouth bass, bluegill, and catfish, often finding success around sunken brush and rocky edges. Boat access is allowed, but only electric motors can be used. The rugged terrain makes bank fishing tougher in some areas, but it also means less crowding. Gridley Lake suits anglers who enjoy slower, more focused fishing days.
22. Spring Lake
Spring Lake, found near Manito in central Illinois, is known for its long, narrow shape and steady fishing. Stretching about eight miles, this 1,300-acre lake is well-stocked with largemouth bass, muskie, bluegill, and catfish. Shallow waters and heavy vegetation give fish plenty of cover, making it a good place for anglers who like to work through thick areas. Boat motors are limited to 25 horsepower and there are creel and length limits on most species. Spring Lake also has a hatchery nearby, supporting strong fish populations. With two boat access points and wooded surroundings, it’s a reliable choice for serious fishing trips.
21. Lake Bloomington
Lake Bloomington, located just north of Bloomington, Illinois, was built in the 1920s as a water supply but has grown into a steady fishing spot. Covering around 635 acres, it offers good chances to catch largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill, and catfish. The lake has a developed shoreline, with houses, docks, and some public access points, making boat fishing more common than bank fishing. Speed limits are in place to keep boating safe and controlled. Fishing pressure can be high at times, but the lake’s size helps spread people out. It’s a practical choice for anglers looking for consistent action close to town.
20. Dawson Lake
Dawson Lake sits within Moraine View State Recreation Area, offering a peaceful spot for fishing in central Illinois. The 158-acre lake holds largemouth bass, crappie, catfish, and bluegill, with fishing piers and boat rentals available. Its shoreline weaves through woods and grasslands, giving anglers a mix of shaded and open areas to try. Electric motors only are allowed, helping to keep the water calm for slow fishing. The lake has several quiet coves where fish like to gather, especially in warmer months. With picnic areas and trails nearby, Dawson Lake works well for day trips that combine fishing and hiking.
19. Lake Mattoon
Lake Mattoon stretches across three counties in east-central Illinois, built as a water supply reservoir but now known for steady fishing opportunities. Covering about 1,050 acres, it is home to largemouth bass, crappie, catfish, and hybrid striped bass. The shoreline is mostly open, making it easy to find good casting spots whether you fish from a boat or from land. Boat speed limits are higher here than at many other Illinois lakes, so you’ll often see anglers moving quickly between locations. Public ramps and nearby camping make it convenient for longer stays. Its open layout and consistent fishing keep people coming back.
18. Pierce Lake
Pierce Lake sits inside Rock Cut State Park in northern Illinois, offering a large, easy-to-reach spot for fishing. The 162-acre lake is stocked with muskie, largemouth bass, catfish, and bluegill, giving anglers a lot of choices. Its shoreline is a mix of forest edges and open spaces, with plenty of spots for fishing from the bank or by boat. The lake’s size makes it a good place for both quiet casts and steady trolling. Seasonal rentals for boats and kayaks are available nearby. With camping, hiking, and other park features close by, Pierce Lake is a practical choice for full-day trips.
17. Heidecke Lake
Heidecke Lake, located near Morris, Illinois, is a cooling lake originally built to support a power station. Today, it offers open water fishing for anglers seeking species like hybrid striped bass, walleye, and smallmouth bass. Unlike natural lakes, Heidecke is wide and windswept, making it feel almost like a small inland sea. Shore access is limited, so boats are the best way to explore its waters. Seasonal regulations help maintain strong fish populations. Because it’s a former industrial site, the lake has a deep, steady bottom and fewer weeds, giving it a different feel than many of Illinois’ traditional lakes.
16. Newton Lake
Newton Lake, a 1,750-acre reservoir in southeast Illinois near Newton, is a warm-water fishery boosted by its power plant cooling role. Its depths support largemouth bass, channel catfish, and bluegill, with crappie thriving in spring. Bass lurk near submerged structures, biting crankbaits in summer, while catfish favor deeper zones with cut bait. A single boat ramp serves small crafts; shore fishing is best near the spillway. The lake’s warm, clear water demands subtle lures. Campgrounds nearby add convenience. Illinois DNR sets a 15-inch bass minimum, so check rules. Newton Lake’s year-round fishing and solid species mix make it a draw for dedicated anglers.
15. Lake Jacksonville
Lake Jacksonville, a 442-acre reservoir in west-central Illinois near Jacksonville, is a compact but productive fishing destination. Managed by the city, its clear waters and mix of shallow flats, submerged logs, and deeper channels harbor largemouth bass, crappie, and channel catfish, with bluegill and redear sunfish abundant. Spring crappie fishing peaks near brush piles, while summer bass action focuses on weed beds and docks. Catfish bite strong in deeper waters using live bait. A single boat ramp supports small crafts, with a 10-horsepower limit ensuring quiet outings. Shore fishing excels along the dam and public piers, ideal for panfish. The lake’s clarity favors light tackle and small jigs. Nearby campgrounds and picnic areas make it family-friendly. Illinois DNR sets a 15-inch minimum for largemouth bass, so check regulations. Lake Jacksonville’s manageable size, diverse fish populations, and easy access deliver a solid fishing experience for anglers of all skill levels. _dive into the details of each lake, ensuring readers get a full picture of what makes each spot special for fishing in Illinois.
14. Evergreen Lake
Evergreen Lake, a 925-acre reservoir in central Illinois near Bloomington, is a gem for anglers seeking quality fishing. Managed by McLean County, its clear waters and varied structure—shallow coves, weed lines, and deeper drop-offs—support largemouth bass, crappie, and muskellunge, with bluegill and smallmouth bass adding variety. Spring bass fishing thrives near shoreline cover, while fall muskie action heats up with large crankbaits. Crappie cluster around submerged trees in early summer. Boating is convenient with two ramps, but a 10-horsepower limit favors electric motors or kayaks. Shore fishing is solid at Comlara Park, especially for panfish. The lake’s clarity calls for natural baits or finesse lures. Campgrounds, hiking trails, and picnic areas enhance its family appeal. Illinois DNR enforces a 48-inch minimum for muskie and a 15-inch limit for bass, so check rules. Evergreen Lake’s diverse species and accessible amenities make it a top pick for local and visiting anglers.
13. Cedar Lake
Cedar Lake, a 1,750-acre reservoir in southern Illinois near Carbondale, is a prized fishing spot within the Shawnee National Forest. Its clear waters and mix of shallow bays and deep channels support largemouth bass, crappie, and channel catfish, with bluegill and redear sunfish rounding out the catch. Bass fishing excels in spring around weed beds, while crappie gather near submerged brush in early summer. Catfish haunt deeper waters, hitting cut bait or worms. Boating is popular with a single ramp, but a 10-horsepower limit favors small crafts like kayaks. Shore fishing is productive near the dam and spillway. The lake’s clarity demands light tackle and subtle lures. Surrounding trails and campgrounds make it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. Illinois DNR sets a 14-inch minimum for largemouth bass, so review regulations. Cedar Lake’s manageable size, diverse fishery, and natural setting offer a rewarding experience for anglers seeking quality over quantity.
12. Devil’s Kitchen Lake
Devil’s Kitchen Lake, a 810-acre reservoir in southern Illinois near Marion, offers a unique fishing experience within Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge. Known for its deep, clear waters and rocky shores, it harbors largemouth bass, crappie, and rainbow trout, with bluegill adding panfish action. The lake’s steep drop-offs and submerged timber make it a bass haven, especially in summer, while trout thrive in cooler depths, stocked annually. Spring crappie fishing peaks around brush piles. A 10-horsepower limit keeps boating low-key, ideal for kayaks, and a single ramp provides access. Shore fishing is limited, so boats are key for reaching prime spots. The clear water calls for finesse techniques like small jigs or live bait. Nearby campgrounds tie into the refuge’s trails, appealing to nature lovers. Illinois DNR enforces a 15-inch minimum for bass, so check rules. Devil’s Kitchen Lake’s deep waters and diverse species reward skilled anglers with standout catches.
11. Crab Orchard Lake
Crab Orchard Lake, a 6,965-acre reservoir in southern Illinois near Marion, is a standout for its robust fishery. Part of the Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge, it teems with largemouth bass, crappie, and channel catfish, with bluegill and redear sunfish adding variety. Its sprawling layout, featuring coves, submerged brush, and open water, supports diverse angling tactics. Spring crappie swarm shallow cover, while summer bass fishing excels near docks and drop-offs. Catfish prowl deeper channels, biting best on cut bait. Boaters access multiple ramps, and bank fishing thrives at spots like Wolf Creek Causeway. The lake’s clear water favors natural lures or live bait. Campgrounds and picnic areas enhance its family appeal. Illinois DNR sets a 15-inch minimum for largemouth bass, with a three-fish daily limit, so check regulations. Crab Orchard Lake’s rich fish populations and accessible shores make it a prime destination for anglers of all experience levels.
10. Shabbona Lake
Shabbona Lake, a 318-acre gem in northern Illinois near DeKalb, punches above its size for fishing. Tucked within Shabbona Lake State Park, it’s stocked with muskie, largemouth bass, and walleye, while crappie and bluegill thrive in its weed-lined waters. The lake’s compact size, with deep pockets and shallow bays, suits small boats and kayaks, though a 10-horsepower limit keeps things calm. Shore fishing shines along the dam and piers, especially for panfish. Fall muskie fishing draws enthusiasts casting large lures, while spring walleye bite near rocky banks. The clear water demands subtle presentations, like live minnows for crappie. Park amenities, including campgrounds and bait shops, make it welcoming for families. Illinois DNR enforces a 48-inch minimum for muskie, so review rules. Shabbona’s diverse species, easy access, and natural setting deliver a top-tier fishing experience for beginners and seasoned anglers in a smaller, manageable package.
9. Lake Springfield
Lake Springfield, a 4,260-acre reservoir in central Illinois, is a go-to fishing spot near the state capital. Formed by damming Sugar Creek, it supports strong populations of largemouth bass, channel catfish, and crappie, with bluegill and white bass adding variety. Its mix of shallow flats, submerged logs, and deeper waters near the dam creates diverse angling opportunities. Spring brings crappie to weed edges, while summer bass fishing heats up around docks. Catfish anglers score big in deeper channels using stink bait. Multiple boat ramps and a marina ensure easy access, and shoreline fishing is productive at city-managed parks like Lincoln Greens. The lake’s clear water favors finesse baits like jigs. Picnic areas and nearby urban amenities appeal to families. Illinois DNR sets a 15-inch minimum for largemouth bass, so check regulations. Lake Springfield’s accessibility and solid fish populations make it a reliable choice for local and visiting anglers.
8. Clinton Lake
Clinton Lake, a 4,900-acre reservoir in central Illinois near Clinton, is a hotspot for anglers targeting hybrid striped bass, largemouth bass, and crappie. Built as a cooling lake for a power plant, its warm waters extend the fishing season, with white bass and hybrids thriving in summer. The lake’s mix of deep channels, rocky points, and submerged humps offers varied fishing grounds. Spring crappie fishing excels near brushy shallows, while bass anglers work riprap banks with crankbaits. Boaters enjoy multiple ramps, and shoreline access is ample at sites like Mascoutin Recreation Area. The lake’s warm, clear water calls for fast-moving lures or live bait. Campgrounds, hiking trails, and beaches make it family-friendly. Illinois DNR enforces a 17-inch minimum for hybrid striped bass, so review rules. Clinton Lake’s unique warm-water fishery and accessible amenities provide an exciting and reliable fishing experience for all skill levels.
7. Kinkaid Lake
Kinkaid Lake, tucked into the rolling hills of southern Illinois, offers a wide stretch of water perfect for fishing. Covering around 2,750 acres, it features rocky shorelines, wooded coves, and deep waters that support healthy fish populations. Anglers come here for bass, crappie, catfish, and muskie, with the lake known for producing some large catches. The surrounding land is part of the Shawnee National Forest, giving the lake a natural, unspoiled setting. Boat ramps are easy to find, and there’s plenty of quiet shoreline for fishing from the bank. The lake’s design, with its many inlets and points, creates good fishing spots year-round. While it’s a popular destination, Kinkaid still feels open and easy to explore. Whether you’re casting from a boat or setting up for the day on a shaded bank, Kinkaid Lake gives fishermen a good mix of opportunity and space in the heart of Illinois.
6. Rend Lake
Rend Lake, a 18,900-acre reservoir in southern Illinois near Benton, is a top pick for anglers chasing crappie, largemouth bass, and channel catfish. Formed by damming the Big Muddy River, its expansive waters feature shallow flats, stump fields, and deep channels, creating diverse fishing zones. Spring crappie fishing shines around submerged structures, while bass thrive near riprap banks in summer. Catfish anglers find success in deeper holes using cut bait. Multiple boat ramps and marinas support easy access, and shoreline fishing is strong at spots like the Rend Lake Dam. The lake’s slightly murky water favors bold lures and live bait. Family-friendly amenities, including campgrounds and beaches, add to its appeal. Illinois DNR enforces a 14-inch minimum for largemouth bass, so review regulations. With its rich fish populations and versatile fishing options, Rend Lake offers something for every angler, from beginners to seasoned pros.
5. Lake Shelbyville
Lake Shelbyville, a 11,100-acre reservoir in central Illinois, is a premier fishing destination near Shelbyville. Created by damming the Kaskaskia River, it supports thriving populations of walleye, largemouth bass, crappie, and muskellunge. Its extensive shoreline, dotted with coves and points, offers prime casting spots, while deeper waters near the dam attract walleye anglers. Spring crappie fishing is exceptional around submerged brush, and summer bass action heats up near drop-offs. Boaters benefit from numerous ramps, and bank fishing is productive at public access areas like Wilborn Creek. The lake’s clear water and varied structure demand versatile tactics, such as trolling for muskie or jigging for bass. Campgrounds and marinas make it family-friendly, with amenities for multi-day trips. Illinois DNR sets a 15-inch minimum for walleye, so check rules. Lake Shelbyville’s mix of species and accessible facilities ensures a rewarding experience for anglers of all levels.
4. Lake of Egypt
Lake of Egypt, a 2,300-acre reservoir in southern Illinois, is a favorite for year-round fishing due to its power plant-warmed waters. Nestled near Marion, this lake boasts healthy stocks of largemouth bass, crappie, and channel catfish, with bluegill and redear sunfish also plentiful. Its deep coves and submerged timber provide ideal cover, making it a hotspot for bass anglers using jigs or crankbaits. Boating is popular, with several ramps and marinas, while shoreline access near docks suits bank fishermen. Winter fishing thrives here, as warm water keeps fish active. The lake’s clear depths require finesse techniques, like drop-shotting for crappie. Public areas offer parking and picnic spots, enhancing its appeal for families. Illinois DNR enforces a 16-inch minimum for largemouth bass, so review regulations. With its consistent action and scenic surroundings, Lake of Egypt delivers a reliable and enjoyable fishing experience for all skill levels.
3. Fox Chain O’Lakes
Fox Chain O’Lakes, a 7,100-acre network of interconnected lakes in northeast Illinois, is a standout for anglers seeking variety. Located near Antioch, this system of 15 lakes, including Channel, Grass, and Pistakee, supports robust populations of muskie, walleye, largemouth bass, and bluegill. Its mix of shallow bays, weed beds, and deeper channels creates diverse fishing grounds. Spring walleye runs and summer muskie hunts draw boaters, with rentals and ramps widely available. Shore fishing excels near bridges and public parks, especially for crappie and yellow perch. The chain’s heavy boat traffic requires caution, but its clear waters reward anglers with solid catches. Local bait shops offer tips on hot spots. Regulations include a 48-inch minimum for muskie, so check Illinois DNR guidelines. With nearby campgrounds and dining, Fox Chain O’Lakes is a versatile destination for beginners and experts alike, blending natural beauty with prime fishing.
2. Carlyle Lake
Carlyle Lake, spanning 26,000 acres in southwest Illinois, is a top fishing spot known for its diverse fish populations. This reservoir, formed by damming the Kaskaskia River, draws anglers targeting channel catfish, flathead catfish, largemouth bass, and white bass. Its shallow flats and deeper channels create varied habitats, ideal for crappie in spring and bluegill along shorelines. The lake’s size supports boating, with multiple ramps and marinas, while bank fishing thrives near spillways and wooded coves. Summer brings strong white bass runs, often caught trolling or casting jigs. Carlyle’s clear waters and submerged structures, like old trees, attract fish but require careful navigation. Amenities include campgrounds and picnic areas, perfect for family outings. Regulations enforce a 14-inch minimum for largemouth bass, so check Illinois DNR rules. With its mix of species and easy access, Carlyle Lake suits both novice and seasoned anglers.
1. Lake Michigan
Lake Michigan, one of the Great Lakes, is a massive fishing destination in Illinois, covering over 22,000 square miles. Its Illinois shoreline, stretching from Chicago to Zion, offers diverse angling opportunities. Anglers target coho and chinook salmon, lake trout, and yellow perch, with steelhead and brown trout also common. The lake’s deep, cold waters support trophy-sized fish, especially in spring and fall when salmon run closer to shore. Boat fishing is popular, with charter services available for offshore trips, but piers and breakwalls provide excellent shore access, particularly for perch. Water clarity and strong currents demand sturdy gear and heavier lines. Public access points like Montrose Harbor and Waukegan Pier make it beginner-friendly, while nearby marinas cater to experienced boaters. Check local regulations for seasonal closures and bag limits, as rules vary by species. Lake Michigan’s size and fish variety make it a standout for Illinois anglers.
Info and FAQ on Illinois’ Top 30 Fishing Lakes
Illinois’ top 30 fishing lakes offer diverse opportunities for anglers, covering over 1.5 million acres of water, from Lake Michigan’s deep waters to smaller lakes and reservoirs. These lakes, selected based on my fishing experience, local angler input, and social media polls, feature species like largemouth bass, crappie, catfish, and walleye. Popular spots include Rend Lake for crappie, Lake Michigan for salmon and trout, and power plant lakes like Lake of Egypt for year-round bass fishing. Many lakes have boat ramps, shoreline access, and nearby camping, making them ideal for all skill levels.
FAQ
Do I need a fishing license? Yes, anglers 16 and older need an Illinois fishing license. Non-resident licenses cost $10-$30, depending on duration.
When’s the best time to fish? Spring and fall are prime due to active fish, but power plant lakes allow year-round fishing.
Are there catch limits? Limits vary by lake and species (e.g., 3 largemouth bass over 16 inches at Crab Orchard). Check Illinois DNR regulations.
Can I fish from shore? Yes, many lakes offer bank fishing, with spots like Lake Michigan’s piers ideal for perch.
Are boats allowed? Most lakes permit boats, some with restrictions (e.g., 10 horsepower limit at Devils Kitchen).
For more details, visit the Illinois DNR website. Grab your gear and hit the water!
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