Anglers in Illinois need to look no further than their immediate surrounding to enjoy quality fishing. Some of the best fishing opportunities in the nation can be found in our state's million and a half acres of water. Illinois waters vary from the deep blue waters of Lake Michigan, to our many great rivers, to crystal-clear smaller lakes and ponds.
Whatever kind of fishing you're interested in doing....
we've got it!
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May is Illinois Invasive Species Awareness Month
Hundreds of invasive species occur in Illinois, and, unfortunately, the list grows almost daily. Invasive species disrupt the ecological balance, introducing unfamiliar flora and fauna into the communities of life in our wetlands, rivers and lakes. Governor Pat Quinn has proclaimed May Illinois Invasive Species Awareness Month. Learn about educational and volunteer activities taking place in your area and what you can do to prevent the spread of invasive species. Please, learn what you can do to preserve the natural community we know in Illinois.
Places to Fish
- Lakes
- Corps Reservoirs
- Lake Michigan
- Rivers & Creeks
- Catchable Trout
- Fishing Tips
- Weekly Fishing Reports
- Fish Species Status Reports
- Water Levels
Fishing Programs
- Fishing Awards (Hook/Line, Spear/Bow)
- Spear/Bow Fishing
- Urban Fishing
- Tackle Loaner
- Angler Records
- Hatcheries & Stocking
- Private Lake & Aquatic Plant Management
- Disabled Outdoor Opportunities
Fishing Tackle Box
- Private Fish Dealers
- All Fishing Questions Answered
- Consumption Advisories
- Tournament Application
- Boating
- Get a Fishing License
- How to Tie Knots
- Spanish Version of Fishing Regulations-2012
- Fishing Regulations-2012
2004-2011
Fish Science
Kids & Family Fishing
- May 19 - Baker Lake Kids Fishing Expo
- June 9 - Lock 14 Kid's Fishing Tournament
- June 9 - Two Rivers Family Fishing Fair
- Family Fishing Hotspots
- Illinois High School Assoc. Bass Fishing
- Teachers Resources
- Kids Fishing
- Aquatic Illinois
- Illinois Entice
What's New
Illinois Sport Fishing Awards
The Division of Fisheries offers "Hook and Line" and "Spear/Bow and Arrow" angler recognition awards, as well as State Records for fish caught in Illinois waters.
James Zimmerman of Beloit, Wisconsin with a new state record walleye. IDNR Division of Fisheries Regional Administrator Dan Sallee certified the new record walleye on March 12. Read more here.Credit: IDNR
