Illinois is the perfect destination for your next fishing adventure if you’re an avid fisherman. With countless lakes, rivers and streams full of different kinds of fish, anglers have plenty of opportunities to catch various species. One of the most sought-after catches in the state is catfish – they’re hardy and aggressive, so fishing for them can be pretty exciting!
In this blog post, we’ll look at some of the best locations throughout Illinois where anglers can find plentiful supplies of these tasty underwater predators. So prepare yourself with quality tackle and all necessary safety precautions, as it’s time to explore some top spots for catfish fishing in Illinois!
Top Catfish Fishing Locations in Illinois
Illinois offers a variety of excellent catfish fishing spots, with numerous lakes, rivers, and reservoirs teeming with channel, blue, and flathead catfish. Here are some of the state’s best catfish fishing locations, each with unique characteristics and opportunities for anglers.
Rend Lake
Location: Southern Illinois, near Benton
Rend Lake is a popular destination for catfish anglers due to its abundant channel and flathead catfish populations. This 18,900-acre reservoir boasts a variety of habitats, including shallow flats, deep channels, and submerged timber, providing ideal conditions for catfish to thrive. Anglers can fish from the shore or by boat, with several boat ramps and fishing piers available for public use. Night fishing is particularly effective during the summer months when catfish are most active.
Mississippi River
Location: Western border of Illinois
The mighty Mississippi River offers some of the best catfish fishing in Illinois, with abundant channel, blue, and flathead catfish populations. The river’s numerous wing dams, backwaters, and deep holes provide excellent hiding spots for these bottom-dwellers.
Anglers can fish from the shore or by boat, targeting areas with current breaks and structures. Due to its size and unpredictable currents, exercising caution and using appropriate safety measures when fishing the Mississippi River is essential.
Kaskaskia River
Location: Central and southwestern Illinois
The Kaskaskia River is another top spot for catfish fishing in Illinois, known for its healthy channel and flathead catfish populations. This 325-mile-long river features a mix of deep pools, slow-moving stretches, and rocky areas, offering a diverse range of habitats for catfish.
Fishing from the shore or by boat is possible, with several public access points along the river. The Carlyle Lake tailwaters, located downstream of the dam, are particularly renowned for their excellent catfish fishing opportunities
LaSalle Lake
Location: North-central Illinois, near Marseilles
LaSalle Lake is a 2,058-acre cooling lake known for its trophy-sized blue and channel catfish. The lake’s warm water temperatures and abundant forage make it an ideal environment for catfish to grow large and healthy. Fishing from the shore is limited, so using a boat is recommended.
Be prepared for strong winds and choppy waters, as the lake is prone to sudden weather changes. Focus on deep holes, drop-offs, and the warm water discharge area for the best chances of success.
Lake Springfield
Location: Central Illinois, near Springfield
Lake Springfield is a 4,260-acre reservoir that offers excellent catfish fishing opportunities, particularly for channel catfish. The lake features a mix of habitats, including shallow bays, deep channels, and submerged timber, providing plenty of cover for catfish.
Anglers can fish from the shore or by boat, with several public access points and boat ramps available. Catfish can be caught year-round in Lake Springfield, but the late spring and early summer months are typically the most productive.
Sangamon River
Location: Central Illinois, near Decatur
The Sangamon River is a 246-mile-long river that offers excellent catfish fishing opportunities, particularly for channel and flathead catfish. The river features a mix of deep pools, rocky ledges, and submerged timber, providing ideal habitats for catfish. Anglers can fish from the shore or by boat, with several public access points along the river. Focus on areas with structure and current breaks for the best chances of success.
Carlyle Lake
Location: South-central Illinois, near Carlyle
Carlyle Lake is the largest man-made lake in Illinois, covering 26,000 acres. It is known for its healthy channel, blue, and flathead catfish populations. The lake features diverse habitats, including shallow flats, deep ruts, and submerged timber, providing plenty of cover for catfish.
Anglers can fish from the shore or by boat, with numerous boat ramps and fishing piers available for public use. The area below the dam, known as the tailwaters, is incredibly productive for catfish fishing.
Powerton Lake
Location: Central Illinois, near Pekin
Powerton Lake is a 1,426-acre cooling lake known for its excellent catfish fishing opportunities, particularly for blue and channel catfish. The warm water temperatures and abundant forage make it an ideal environment for catfish to thrive. Fishing from the shore is limited, so using a boat is recommended.
The lake features deep holes, drop-offs, and a warm water discharge area, prime spots for catfish. Be prepared for strong winds and choppy waters, as the lake is prone to sudden weather changes.
Fox River
Location: Northern Illinois, near Aurora
The Fox River is a 202-mile-long river that provides excellent catfish fishing opportunities, particularly for channel catfish. The river features a mix of deep pools, slow-moving stretches, and rocky areas, offering diverse habitats for catfish.
Anglers can fish from the shore or by boat, with several public access points along the river. Focus on areas with structure, current breaks, and below dams for the best chances of success.
Lake Shelbyville
Location: Central Illinois, near Shelbyville
Lake Shelbyville is an 11,000-acre reservoir that offers outstanding catfish fishing opportunities, especially for channel and flathead catfish. The lake features a variety of habitats, including shallow bays, deep channels, and submerged timber, providing ample cover for catfish.
Anglers can fish from the shore or by boat, with several public access points and boat ramps available. The late spring and early summer months are typically the most productive for catfish fishing on Lake Shelbyville.
By visiting these additional top catfish fishing locations in Illinois, anglers can enjoy diverse fishing experiences while pursuing whiskered giants in the state’s beautiful waterways.
The Best Time of Year to Fish for Catfish in Illinois
Fishing for catfish can be a thrilling and rewarding experience, especially in Illinois. With its numerous lakes, rivers, and reservoirs, Illinois offers abundant opportunities for anglers looking to catch these whiskered fish. However, knowing the best time of year to fish for catfish can significantly increase your chances of success.
The prime time to fish for catfish in Illinois is during the warmer months, typically from late April through early October. During this period, catfish become more active as they search for food and spawn, making them easier to catch. Here’s a breakdown of the ideal times within this window.
Late April to Early June: Pre-Spawn
In late spring, as water temperatures rise to around 70°F (21°C), catfish feed heavily in preparation for spawning. This pre-spawn period is an excellent time to fish for catfish, as they are aggressive and hungry. Look for them in deeper waters near structures such as submerged trees or rocky areas, as they often use these spots for cover.
Mid-June to Early July: Spawn
During the spawn, which usually occurs when water temperatures reach 75°F (24°C) and lasts for a few weeks, catfish become less active in their feeding habits. However, this is still a good time to fish for them, as they’ll be concentrated in specific areas. Look for nesting sites in shallow waters near the shoreline, particularly in protected or secluded spots such as under overhanging trees or near submerged logs.
Late July to Early October: Post-Spawn
After the spawn, catfish will continue to feed aggressively as they recover their energy levels. This post-spawn period is another excellent time for fishing, as catfish are still relatively easy to locate. They’ll return to deeper waters, often close to structures or drop-offs, and can be found in rivers and lakes.
During the peak of summer, it’s also worth noting that catfish tend to be most active during the cooler hours, such as early morning and late evening. Night fishing can also be productive, as catfish are known to be more involved in low-light conditions.
The best time of year to fish for catfish in Illinois is during the warmer months, with late spring and early fall being particularly favorable. By understanding their behaviors and preferences during each phase of the season, you can increase your chances of a successful catfish fishing trip.
FAQ
1. What types of catfish can I catch in Illinois?
Three main species of catfish are found in Illinois: channel catfish, blue catfish, and flathead catfish. Channel catfish are the most common, while blue catfish and flathead catfish can grow to be much larger.
2. Where are the best places to fish for catfish in Illinois?
Some popular catfish fishing locations in Illinois include the Mississippi, Illinois, Ohio, Kaskaskia, Rend Lake, and Lake Shelbyville. Catfish can also be found in many other rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
3. What kind of bait should I use for catfish fishing?
Catfish have a strong sense of smell, so using baits with a strong odor is highly effective. Popular choices include cut bait (chunks of fish), nightcrawlers, chicken livers, and stink baits. Experiment with different types of bait to determine what works best for the catfish in your chosen location.
4. Do I need a fishing license to fish for catfish in Illinois?
You’ll need a valid Illinois fishing license to fish for catfish. Licenses can be purchased online or at various retail locations throughout the state. Be sure to familiarize yourself with the specific regulations and limits for catfish in Illinois before you start fishing.
5. What gear should I use for catfish fishing?
A medium to heavy action rod and reel with a strong line (15-30 pound test) is recommended for catching catfish. Circle hooks or treble hooks work well for securing your bait and catching hold of the catfish’s mouth. Also, a sturdy net or lip gripper can help you safely land and handle your catch.
6. Are there any specific techniques for catching catfish?
While there are various techniques for catching catfish, some common methods include bottom fishing, drift fishing, and slip float fishing. Patience is key when it comes to catfish fishing. If you’re not getting bites, try changing your bait or moving to a new location.
7. What is the best time of day to fish for catfish?
Although catfish can be caught during daylight hours, they are most active during dawn and dusk. Fishing during these times increases your chances of catching catfish. Night fishing can also be productive, as catfish are known to be more active in low light conditions.