FISHING AREA: Lake Shelbyville is an 11,000 acre lake that averages 16 feet in depth, at normal pool, with a maximum depth of 67 feet. 250 miles of picturesque, wooded shoreline have been created by islands, coves, peninsulas and inlets. The focus in on hunting and fishing, the area has no camping, picnicking or day-use facilities. The acreage offers many natural features including wooded uplands, spectacular acenery, prairie plants, 50 species of native plants, more than 200 species of birds, and various wildlife are present. Fishermen will find six small boat launching facilties located in the the wildlife areas. Bigger craft owners are advised to use the larger access areas offered at marinas, state parks or Corps of Engineers sites.A handicap fishing pier and boat launch is available. It is the home of Eagle Creek Inn, one of the Midwest's most modern resorts at Eagle Creek State Park. Wolf Creek State Park and Shelbyville Wildlife management Areas are also located near the Shelbyville Lake is located in Shelby County west of Mattoon; south of Illinois Route 121 and north of Illinois Route 16. Route 32 crosses the east side of the lake into Moultri County.
WATER CONDITIONS: Lake level is 613.97 feet; 14.27 feet above normal pool; water clarity is muddy colored; overflowing, lots of water; Surface temperatures are in the upper 70's.
FISH: White Bass ... Fair to Good; Fish are chasing the shad; use double rigs or twister tails both deep and on the flats; the shallower fish are easier to catch.
FISH: Largemouth Bass ... Good; Fishermen are successful throwing crankbaits around ther willows; change colors if you have problems.
FISH: Walleye ... Good; Fishermen are successful casting 2 jig rigs near the rip rap; some also using twister tails, around the willows.
FISH: Catfish ... Good; Some anglers are finding fish near the shorelines, brush or cover with shrimp, night crawlers, or stink bait.
NOTES: Lake Shelbyville is one of the best lakes in Illinois for catching 50 inch muskies. Starting April 1st, the crappie creel limit has been changed to five fish shorter than 10 inches and 10 fish longer than 10 inches. Hopefully this will prevent overharvesting of smaller white crappie.
NOTES: Reported by Ken Pierson of the Army Corps of Engineers.For lake report - call 217/774-2020.