Top Fishing Destinations in Illinois: Heidecke Lake

Top Fishing Destinations in Illinois: Heidecke Lake

By: Jon Giacalone

Located in Grundy County, Heidecke Lake was a power plant cooling lake considered to be one of the best of its kind in the nation for hybrid striped bass. Heidecke Lake State Fish and Wildlife Area is maintained and operated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR).  The IDNR  provides a variety of recreational opportunities, including fishing, hiking, hunting and picnicking. Fishing is allowed from April 1 through the second Sunday in October. The only water sport permitted is fishing - swimming, wading, water skiing and other water activities are prohibited.

Possible Changes Could be Coming to Pittsman-Roberston Act

Possible Changes Could be Coming to Pittsman-Roberston Act

On March 21, 2016 Congressman Jeff Duncan (Republican of South Carolina's 3rd district) member and Vice-Chair of the Congressional Sportsmen Caucus introduced H.R. 4818.

H.R.4818 - Modernizing the Pittman-Robertson Fund for Tomorrow's Needs Act of 2016

To amend the Pittman-Robertson Wildlife Restoration Act to modernize the funding of wildlife conservation, and for other purposes.

Illinois Bait Shop - Illinois Valley Outdoors

Illinois Valley Outdoors

Illinois Bait Shop - Illinois Valley Outdoors

As we pulled into the parking lot we saw some gentlemen leaving with a minnow bucket to go hit up the local watering hole.  Inside Illinois Valley Outdoors, located close to the Illinois River, we were greeted with a big 'how you doing' from the owner Joe Troha.

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.