The Top 30 Fishing Lakes in Illinois

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 Opeka

Lake Opeka in Des Plaines is a small, easy-access urban lake that fishes well for quick trips. Shoreline paths, a few piers, and nearby parking make it friendly for bank anglers and families. Expect largemouth bass, bluegill, crappie, and channel catfish, with occasional pike reported. Early morning or evening is best, especially in summer. Downsized gear works: small jigs, live worms, and finesse plastics around weed edges and drop-offs. Check local rules on boats and events before you go, since the park gets busy. Keep it simple, be patient, and you can put steady fish in the net most days.

29. Axehead Lake

Axehead Lake is a small, stop in the Cook County Forest Preserves, perfect for quick after-work sessions. Shoreline access is excellent, with short walks to fishable water everywhere. You’ll find stocked trout in season, plus largemouth bass, bluegill, crappie, and channel cats. Downsized tackle shines: slip floats with worms or minnows, small jigs, inline spinners, and finesse plastics. Fish points, aerators, and windblown banks. Expect pressure on weekends; early mornings or weekdays are calmer. Check forest preserve rules and trout stamps when required. Keep fish only within limits, handle releases fast, and pack out trash so the bite stays good.

28. Tampier Lake

Tampier Lake sits in the Cook County Forest Preserves and fishes well for quick trips or half days. Bank access is easy, with paths, piers, and parking. Expect largemouth bass, bluegill, crappie, and channel catfish. In spring, work shallow coves with small jigs or wacky worms; in summer, target weed edges, points, and the deeper dam side with slip floats or spinnerbaits. Early and late light are best on busy days. Small boats and kayaks are common; always check local rules for launches and electric motors. Keep within limits, release fish fast, and pack out trash to keep it pleasant.

27. Harrier Lake

Harrier Lake, in Bartlett at James Pate Philip State Park, is a quick, bank-friendly spot with easy paths, parking, and plenty of shoreline. You’ll find typical suburban-lake species: largemouth bass, bluegill, crappie, and channel catfish. Fish early or late to beat weekend crowds and summer sun. Start shallow in spring with small jigs, wacky worms, and live bait under a slip float. In summer, work weed edges, points, and any windblown bank with finesse plastics, inline spinners, or small crankbaits. Keep gear light and move until you get bit. Check local forest preserve rules, respect limits, and pack out trash.

26. Mallard Lake

Mallard Lake in the DuPage Forest Preserves is a bank-friendly fishery with lots of parking and mowed shoreline. Expect largemouth bass, bluegill, crappie, and channel catfish, plus the occasional northern pike. In spring, work shallow coves and newly green weeds with small jigs, wacky worms, and minnows under a slip float. Summer calls for covering water: cast along weedlines, points, and windblown banks with finesse plastics, inline spinners, or small crankbaits. Kayaks and canoes are popular; check local rules on launches and electric motors. Go early or weekday evenings to skip crowds. Handle releases quickly and pack out your trash.

25. Lake Zurich

Lake Zurich is a suburban lake with public access at Paulus Park, making it a solid stop for bank fishing. Expect largemouth bass, bluegill, crappie, and channel cats, with occasional northern pike. Work shallow flats and weed edges in spring with small jigs, minnows, or wacky worms. In summer, cover points and drop-offs with slip floats, finesse plastics, and small crankbaits. Early mornings and weekday evenings fish best when crowds thin. Some areas require village permits for boating; check current local rules before launching. Keep fish within limits, handle releases fast, and leave the shoreline cleaner than you found it.

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. Baldwin Lake

Baldwin Lake is a power-plant cooling lake, so water stays warmer than most Illinois lakes and the bite can stay active through winter. Bank and boat anglers target hybrid striped bass, white bass, largemouth, blue and channel catfish, plus panfish. Watch wind and current around the discharge; baitfish stack there, and predators follow. For cats, try cut shad on bottom rigs. For bass and stripers, throw lipless cranks, swimbaits, and spoons, or drift live minnows. Fish early on calm bluebird days; switch to moving baits when it’s breezy. Wear a PFD, mind weather, and check site rules and closed areas.

22. 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.

21. Lake Storey

Lake Storey in Galesburg is a solid public fishery with easy shoreline access, a boat ramp, and fishable points. You’ll find largemouth bass, muskies, crappie, bluegill, and channel catfish. In spring, work shallow pockets and emerging weeds with small jigs, wacky worms, and minnows under a slip float. Summer calls for covering weed edges, humps, and windblown banks with spinnerbaits, chatterbaits, and finesse plastics. Fall is prime for muskies: throw bucktails, glide baits, or jerkbaits along breaks. For cats, soak cut shad or nightcrawlers on bottom rigs. Go early or late to beat pressure. Check city/IDNR rules and size limits.

20. Kinkaid Lake

Kinkaid Lake is a Southern Illinois favorite with strong populations of largemouth bass, crappie, muskies, and catfish. Shoreline access exists, but a boat or kayak opens more water. In spring, crappie stack in coves and brush—small jigs or minnows do work. For bass, hit rocky points, wood, and weed edges with spinnerbaits, jigs, and wacky worms; switch to topwater early and late in summer. Muskies roam breaks and timber, try bucktails, glide baits, or jerkbaits. Catfish bite cut shad or nightcrawlers on bottom rigs. Watch submerged timber, follow posted wake and speed rules, and check current size and creel limits before you go.

19. Lake Decatur

Lake Decatur is a large Sangamon River reservoir with shoreline parks and multiple ramps. Anglers find largemouth bass, white bass, crappie, channel and flathead catfish, plus the occasional walleye. Water often runs stained, so use louder or brighter baits. In spring, fish feeder creeks, riprap, and warm coves with jigs, minnows, and squarebills. Summer calls for weedlines, bridges, and current seams; try spinnerbaits, crankbaits, and slip floats. For catfish, cut shad or nightcrawlers on bottom rigs produce day or night. Wind can stack bait on points. Check local city and IDNR rules, boating permits, and no wake or restricted areas.

18. Sangchris Lake

Sangchris Lake is a popular central Illinois fishery with solid bass, crappie, and catfish action. It is a no-wake lake where any motor is allowed at idle, so plan for slower runs and spacing. Bank access is available at several park areas, and multiple ramps serve boats and kayaks. In spring, target coves and wood with small jigs, minnows, or wacky worms. Summer calls for weed edges, points, and riprap with spinnerbaits, chatterbaits, and finesse plastics. For cats, try cut shad or nightcrawlers on bottom rigs. Watch shallow timber, follow maps for restricted zones, and respect length and creel limits.

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. 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.

15. Crab Orchard Lake

Crab Orchard Lake sits inside Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge near Carbondale. It is a fishery with ramps, shore spots, and marinas. Expect largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill, and channel catfish, with white bass. Water is often stained, so lean on jigs, spinnerbaits, squarebills, and live bait under slip floats. In spring, target coves, riprap, and wood. In summer, work weed edges, points, and bridge areas early. For cats, use cut shad or nightcrawlers on bottom rigs. Because it is inside a refuge, check current rules for permits, hours, and closed zones. Keep limits, handle releases fast, and pack out trash.

14. 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.

13. 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.

12. 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.

11. 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.

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. 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.

8. Braidwood Lake

Braidwood Lake near Braceville is a warm-water cooling lake that fishes early and late in the season. Anglers target hybrid striped bass, white bass, largemouth, channel catfish, and panfish. Focus on current lines and windblown banks where shad stack. Lipless crankbaits, swimbaits, spoons, and live minnows produce. For catfish, use cut shad or nightcrawlers on bottom rigs along channels and riprap. The lake is open, shallow, and windy, so wear a PFD and watch the forecast. Obey markers around the intake and discharge. Check site hours, seasonal closures, and boating rules before launching. Handle releases quickly and pack out trash.

7. LaSalle Lake

LaSalle Lake near Marseilles is a warm-water cooling lake that fishes early and late in the season. Anglers target hybrid striped bass, white bass, largemouth, and channel catfish, with bonus bluegill and crappie. Work windblown banks, current seams, and riprap near the legal edges of the discharge. Lipless crankbaits, spoons, swimbaits, and minnows all produce. For cats, use cut shad on bottom rigs. The lake is open and can get rough quickly in a stiff wind, so wear a PFD and watch the forecast. Respect closed zones, posted rules, and seasonal hours. Pack out trash and handle releases quickly.

6. 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.

5. Crystal Lake at Three Oaks Recreation Area

Three Oaks Recreation Area in Crystal Lake is a clear, deep quarry lake with easy access and plenty of room to spread out. Shoreline paths, a few designated fishing spots, and kayak rentals make it friendly for bank anglers and paddlers. Expect largemouth bass, with bluegill, crappie, and channel catfish. Clear water means lighter line, natural colors, and longer casts. Try finesse worms, ned rigs, small swimbaits, or jerkbaits along weed edges, points, and drop-offs. Early and late light fish best on busy days. Check park hours, permits, and boating rules before you go, then pack out your trash.

4. 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.

3. 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.

2. 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.

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!