Spurts of salmon and trout have been observed along the lakefront, while inland fishing is also heating up. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the recent fishing conditions and upcoming events:
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Lakefront Fishing:
Anglers have experienced sporadic catches of salmon and trout, including a remarkable 15-pound steelhead caught at Diversy Harbor. The fish was caught on a dead alewife, using a bottom-fishing technique.–
Wauconda Lions Club Big Bass Tournament:
Mark your calendars for April 27 for the annual tournament on Bangs Lake. Prizes will be awarded for the top three catches, with an entry fee of $50 for the first 30 participants and $60 thereafter, up to a limit of 100 entries.–
Smelt Fishing:
Smelt fishing has faced challenges in recent years, but anglers have reported some success this season. Noted locations include Lake Michigan harbors and the Waukegan Power Plant.–
Spring Fishing:
Spring fishing is in full swing, with various species such as panfish, bass, and trout moving into shallow waters. Effective baits include minnows, wax worms, spinner baits, chatter baits, and soft plastics.–
Catfishing on the Fox River:
Catfishing remains productive on the Fox River, with cut bait and stink bait proving to be successful lures.–
Upcoming Events:
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Stratton Lock and Dam Closure:
The dam will be closed through April 30, 2024.–
Braidwood, Heidecke, and LaSalle Lake Hours:
These lakes are open daily from 6 a.m. to sunset, with both bank and boat fishing permitted.–
Illinois River Access Permits:
Permits and liability waivers can be obtained at Dickson Mounts Museum, Tuesday through Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.–
Kankakee River Smallmouth Bass:
Anglers have reported success catching smallmouth bass in the Kankakee River using swim baits on a jig head.–
Ohio DNR Report:
A noteworthy catch was a 63-inch brown trout caught at 63rd Street Pier. The angler used a peanut fly and red or yellow Dodgers.–
Montrose Harbor Fishing:
Coho and brown trout have been caught in front of Montrose Harbor, particularly using peanut flies and Dodgers near the Planeterium.–
Waukegan Coho Catch:
Anglers have had success catching coho salmon near Waukegan, with baitfish abundance contributing to the catches.–
Shabbona Lake Channel Catfish:
A yellow streamer proved effective for catching a channel catfish at Shabbona Lake. Other activities included pheasant sightings and turkey vulture observations.Stay tuned for further updates and reports as the spring fishing season progresses, and don’t miss out on the upcoming events and opportunities.
