Locals Win Cabela's Master Walleye Circuit on Illinois River

Locals Win Cabela's Master Walleye Circuit on Illinois River

When you hear of walleye fishing your first thought is probably Wisconsin or Minnesota, not Illinois.  However, walleye fishing on the Illinois River near Spring Valley and Starved Rock has always been a hot spot.  This fishery has been so productive that the Cabela's Master Walleyes Circuit has decided to launch their 2016 season yet again in Spring Valley, Illinois.

Top Fishing Destinations in Illinois: Lake Shelbyville

Top Fishing Destinations in Illinois: Lake Shelbyville

By: Jon Giacalone

At 11,000 acres, Lake Shelbyville is one of Illinois' premier fishing destinations, offering a variety of shore fishing access points and opportunities for camping. It's most recognized for its largemouth bass, crappie, white bass, muskie and walleye opportunities. Anglers should be aware of special length limits for walleye, largemouth bass, muskie and crappie. Consult visitor centers for the special creel restrictions, which are also posted at most public access sites. Boaters should watch for buoys placed near beaches, bridges, marinas and in some coves. The buoys indicate no boats, no wakes or other navigational information. In addition, green and red navigation buoys have been placed from the Highway 32 bridge to the "Bo" Wood Access to aid deep-draft sailboats.

Walleye and white bass make spring spawning runs up the Kaskaskia River, and have been documented 25 miles north to the Highway 36 bridge. It is believed a white bass run occurs up the West Okaw River, but the extent of the movement has not been studied.

Interestingly, biologists have stocked Shelbyville with walleye from many states to try to obtain genetic qualities suitable for this water. The effort has included river and lake strains from hatcheries in Illinois, Iowa, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Michigan, South Dakota, Kansas, Kentucky and New York. Fingerling and fry stocking typically occurs annually. A rearing pond was constructed and another is planned to raise walleye to a larger size before stocking.

The Classic Tale of Two Fish

The Classic Tale of Two Fish

Uncovering the boat, reorganizing and creating yet another system took a little longer than expected.  I finally just threw the rods in the boat, strapped them down and took off to Jim Edgar Panther Creek.  My goal today wasn't really to fish but was to get out to start the bigger motor and enjoy the fresh air.

Michael explaining how big his fish was and Heather didn't believe him

With a Jeep full of baby stuff, backing down the ramp added an extra challenge.  The boat hit the water and I was ready to test out the boat for the first time this year.  The boat started without incident and soon it was idling around the lake.  I felt comfortable with the way the boat sounded so naturally I was going to get some fishing in. Who wouldn't, right? 

I grabbed a rattle trap and started hitting the shoreline.  Nothing!  I decided to switch to a chatter bait with a swim bait as a trailer.  On the backside of a secondary point I casted about 10 feet from shore, when all of a sudden I felt something, a hit or a snag.

You've been there right?  That moment you lift up on your line and you think you snagged a pile of weeds. That's about when you realize you got one on.  That's how this fish was. Once I realized it was a fish, I noticed right away that this was a bigger fish.  I leaned over the side of the boat, grabbed this 'biggin bass' by the lips, pulled it up, thanked God and let out a big Whooaa!

I can only describe this fish easily as the biggest bass I've ever caught.  Ya, it was that big! I grabbed my rod thew my lure back in and caught another great fish, a nice 14 incher.  I released him and tried a few other spots with no success.

After, I put the boat on the trailer and got home I couldn't wait to tell Heather and my mother-in-law about these fish.  As I was telling them I knew they wouldn't believe me.  WHY?  No picture.  I forgot my cell phone in the car, of course! Remember this was only supposed to be a boat ride, I wasn't planning on catching the biggest bass of my life.

After bragging about it to my brother and anyone else that would listen, the thought of not having a picture does bring up a little disappointment.  The thing is I'll always have that memory and the feeling of catching the greatest fish of my life. 

Have you ever caught a great fish and go to tell the tale, only to have people asking for the photos?  Share your story with us!

Top Fishing Destinations in Illinois: Shabbona Lake

Top Fishing Destinations in Illinois: Shabbona Lake

By: Jon Giacalone

Shabbona Lake, located in DeKalb County, was created in 1975 when the Shabbona Dam was constructed across Indian Creek. The 1,550-acre Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area surrounds the lake. There is no entrance fee, and summer hours are 6:00AM to 10:00PM (May 1 - October 31), while winter hours are 8:00AM to sunset (November 1 - April 30). The Upper Fishing Area and Lower Refuge Area at the west end of the lake are designated no-wake areas, and the use of gas engines is prohibited. Gas motors over 10 horsepower are not permitted on Shabbona Lake. Bank fishing and boat access are prohibited in the Lower Refuge Area from October 1 to freeze-up. During periods of severe weather, condition warning flags are displayed at the access sites. For those looking to fish from shore, five earthen fishing piers have been built along the west shore. Each pier is surrounded by six to eight fish cribs placed in approximately 10 feet of water.

A series of Illinois Top Fishing Destentation

Top Fishing Destinations in Illinois Series 

Presented by Fishidy

Our time is valuable, even while we're on the lake we're probably thinking about eronds we need to run or some chore around the house that we've been putting off.  That's why Capitol Outdoors has teamed up with Fishidy to bring you a series of post on Top Fishing Destinations in Illinois.  

Illinois is full of fantastic fishing opportunities from our power plant lakes that are across the state, the Mississippi River, which is literally our western boarder, the Army Corp of Engineer lakes, and to the beautiful shore lines of Lake Michigan.  The abundance of species have anglers of all sorts in search of great adventure.  

OK. great you have a list of top fishing locations in Illinois but your time is still valuable and you want to make every moment count while you're on the water.  If your a tournament fisherman you know how important it is to do your homework.  Especially if you're fishing a new lake. That's were Fishidy comes in!

Fishidy was founded by hardcore anglers who love fishing, maps and technology. We came together with a common vision to create a one-of-a-kind fishing resource to give anglers of all kinds the chance to catch more fish through the use of interactive fishing maps, social connections and tons of proven, valuable information on thousands of waterways across the country.

That's right, no more old maps, you can research that lake all week before you head out.  Download the app on your smartphone and take it with you.  Now if you're worried about the secret spot being stolen there privacy settings to keep it secret.  :)

This is just one of the many lakes and rivers where you can find information to make you a better and more successful angler. 

From weekend warriors to professional anglers like Mike Iaconelli use Fishidy to give them the edge they need to land more fish in their boat.  Take five minutes and sign-up its free to join!

(SB 3265) Bill Would Allow IDNR to have Fish/Aquatic Life Prosecutions

Bill Would Allow IDNR to have Fish/Aquatic Life Prosecutions

On February 19, 2016 Senator Sam McCann (Republican of Carlinville, Illinois) and member of the Illinois Sportsmen's Caucus introduced SB 3265.  

SB3265 - FISH/AQUATIC LIFE-PROSECUTIONS

Amends the Fish and Aquatic Life Code. Provides that all State's Attorneys shall enforce the provisions of the Code, including administrative rules adopted under Section 1-125, in their respective counties and shall prosecute all persons charged with violating its provisions when so requested by the Department of Natural Resources.

2016 Spring Inland Trout Season Dates and Locations

2016 Spring Inland Trout Season Dates and Locations

The I Fish Illinois staff wants you to start thinking about Trout Fishing.  Yep, it's that time of year again to start thinking about fishing in general.  Inland Trout Fishing is a great way to introduce someone to fishing.  Never been?  Read our post about what we use to catch inland trout.  Make sure to check out Illinois Fishing Information booklet 2016 for rules and regulations.

LaSalle Lake Opens for the Season on March 15

You know that fishing season is on the horizon when you hear about the power plant lakes opening back up.  The Illinois Department of Natural Resources released the following press release regarding the opening day for LaSalle Lake. For more information check out IFISHILLINOIS and FISHIDY.

LaSalle Lake Opens for the Season on March 15 

Governor Rauner's Proposed Illinois Department of Natural Resources FY17 Budget

Governor Rauner's Proposed Illinois Department of Natural Resources FY17 Budget

State Budget FY 2017
Pictures property of IDNR and IGOMB

Today (February 17, 2016) Governor Rauner gave his Budget Address for Fiscal Year 2017.  This budget includes all of Illinois expenditures including those he recommends for the Illinois Department of Natural Resources.

Ice Fishing at Jim Edgar Panther Creek

Ice Fishing at Jim Edgar Panther Creek

There's nothing quite like going fishing on a crisp winter morning. We took to one of our favorite lakes at Jim Edgar Panther Creek State Park. While it took a long time along with multiple holes we finally got onto the fish.  Watch our video and learn some of our tips that we use that allow us to catch more fish through the ice.

More Access and Spring Turkey Hunting Opportunities Added to Illinois Recreational Access Program

More Access and Spring Turkey Hunting Opportunities Added to Illinois Recreational Access Program

Youth Hunters Should Apply by Feb. 26 for Youth Turkey Season;
First-time adult and young hunters apply by March 10 for Seasons 3 and 4

Public hunters are always saying we need more land.  Well,  the Illinois Recreational Access Program (IRAP) might just be the answer to some of the land questions.  Granted there are some stipulations to be enrolled in this program as a landowner, but this is a great example of public private partnerships.  

This program has just added first time adult turkey hunters.  With them adding turkey hunting and all sorts of other hunting and recreational opportunities IRAP could be an acronym we say a lot more in the future.  

Read below for the full press release from the Illinois Department of Natural Resouces

(SB 2342)(HB 5788) Catfish May Soon Be Taken by Bow & Arrow and Other Devices in Illinois

Catfish May Soon Be Taken by Bow & Arrow and Other Devices in Illinois

If you bowfish, use an underwater spear gun or pitch fork to harvest fish, you soon could take catfish. Senator David S. Luechtefeld (Republican Okawville, Illinois) introduced legislation that would add catfish to the list of aquatic species taken by these devices.

SB2342 - FISHING AUTHORIZATION & LIMITS

Amends the Fish and Aquatic Life Code. Adds catfish to the list of aquatic life that may be taken by pitchfork, underwater spear gun, bow and arrow or bow and arrow device, including a sling shot bow, spear, or gig. Provides that specified fish shall not be sold or bartered unless authorized by the Department of Natural Resources. Provides that the daily take, harvest limits, or additional species are subject to and set forth in administrative rule.

This bill was introduced January 28, 2016.

Hunting and Fishing Expos Starts this Weekend

Hunting and Fishing Shows Start this Weekend

By this point in January some of us are experiencing some degree of cabin fever.  This restlessness drives hunters, anglers and those who just enjoy the outdoors to attend  hunting and fishing shows across Illinois.  This weekend starts that show season.

Illinois Laws regarding Hunting and Fishing that are effective January 1, 2016

Illinois Laws regarding Hunting and Fishing that are effective January 1, 2016

Last year we brought you a list of 2014 laws that would become effective in 2015 .  Currently there are over 4,000 bills that have been introduced in the 99th General Assembly.  Here are the pieces of legislation that were signed by Governor Bruce Rauner and will become effective January 1, 2016.

5 Preparations and Tips for Ice Fishing

5 Preparations and Tips for Ice Fishing

The Illinois hunting season's time is running up with less then a month to go for ducks in the Northern and Central Zone leaves some to ask what's next?

Well, you're in luck.  Ice fishing is right around the corner.  It's better to get prepared during those weeks leading up to first ice.  Here are 5 Preparations and Tips for Ice Fishing and just a few things that we recommend you look at before you head out on the ice this winter.

Safety First - On the ice safety is and always should be a priority.  Remember All Ice is Unsafe Ice!  With first ice its important to have always have someone with you.  Always check the thickness of the the ice with an ice chizzle or an auger.  Like a life jacket safety spikes should always be worn but especially during early ice.  If you do go through the ice.  Remember to STAY CALM!

Illinois Muskie Tournament Trail Concludes the 2015 Season

Illinois Muskie Tournament Trail Concludes the 2015 Season

The 2015 Illinois Muskie Tournament Trail came to a close last weekend at the Fox Chain of Lakes. Facing unsteady weather and water temps from 54-57 degrees, anglers set their plans knowing it was going to be a tough bite.

2016 Illinois Fishing Tournament Applications Accepted by IDNR Beginning Nov. 1

2016 Illinois Fishing Tournament Applications Accepted by IDNR Beginning Nov. 1

Waterfowl and Deer hunters are taking to the field while fishing tournament organizers and clubs are starting to think about the 2016 tournament year.  Below is a press release from The Illinois Department of Natural Resources informing clubs and organizers that they can start applying for their 2016 permits.

Remember the Tournament Permitting Process can be done online.  This process was released back in September.   The hope is that this system will "create a quick, easy mechanism for applying for a fishing tournament permit and gathering the anglers’ catch data afterwards."  The permitting process can be found at the I-Fish-Illinois website.  Don't forget in order to apply for 2016 you'll need to submit the catch results for 2015 tournaments.  "Tournament organizers will see the words “post results” in their online tournament listing if they still have 2015 results that need to be entered."

Youth Participate in Illinois Hunting and Fishing

Youth Participate in Illinois Hunting and Fishing

This past weekend was full of hunting and fishing events.  Getting the youth outdoors is a necessary part of their childhood.  No kid grows up remembering their high score on a video game, they remember the time ducks were locked out and landed in the spread or that time a bass pulled some drag.

State and Federal Money Possibly being cut from Natural Resource Programs

State and Federal Money Possibly being cut from Natural Resource Programs

While budget talks continue in Springfield, you might not be aware of other whispers happening in Washington D.C. October 1st starts the fiscal year for the federal government. While congress prolonged funding of the federal government, they didn't fund the Land Water and Conservation Fund (LWCF).

New Registration Location for Boating and Fishing at Emiquon

New Registration Location for Boating and Fishing at Emiquon.

In the past The Nature Conservancy's Emiquon has asked boaters and anglers to register at Dickson Mounds.  This state museum location will be closing due to lack of funds starting September 30, 2015.  With this closure, the Nature Conservancy has asked me to share their press release.   If you fish or boat out at Emiquon make sure to read this press release.  Emiquon is a diamond in the rough,  respect the rules so we all can continue to enjoy this magnificent wetland.  Read more about the rules and regulations for fishing and boating.