Fishing in Illinois

Illinois offers incredible Mississippi River fishing for catfish, sauger, and white bass, plus Lake Michigan's coho and Chinook salmon runs. Inland lakes like Carlyle and Rend Lake hold walleye, bass, and crappie. The Illinois River is a top destination for trophy catfish and freshwater drum.

Top Species

• Largemouth Bass
• Walleye
• Catfish
• Chinook Salmon
• Coho Salmon
• Crappie

Top Waters

• Mississippi River
• Lake Michigan
• Carlyle Lake
• Rend Lake
• Illinois River

Fishing Types

• Freshwater / lake / river fishing

Fishing License

Illinois DNR — visit their site for current regulations and license requirements.