WATER CONDITIONS: Download the Mississippi River fishing guides and navigation charts to locate special fishing areas.
Click on the hyperlinks below to see more info on water levels:
(Illinois Department of Natural Resources Water Levels...realtime...
http://il.water.usgs.gov/nwis-w/IL/datasum.components/owrtable.cgi
(St.Louis Corps District Water Levels)..........................
http://mvs-wc.mvs.usace.army.mil/
(Rock Island Corps District Water Levels)...realtime............
water_mvr_usace_army.htm
(USGS Water Levels)...realtime..................................
USGS water conditions.htm
FISHING AREA: Upper Mississippi River-Pool 12 -
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels are dropping and getting back to normal on most sections of the river.
FISHING AREA: Upper Mississippi River-Pool 13 - Savanna Area
NOTE: Lots of night crawlers selling and also lots of crappie and walleye minnows selling at the bait shop.
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels are a little high, but doing o.k. Fishing activity is picking up.
FISH: Bass ... Fair to Good; Several boats fished in the tournament this past week; lots of activity.
FISH: Catfish ... Good; Night crawlers and leeches are the bait of choice.
FISH: Bluegill ... Good; Fish are biting in area farms ponds on Wax worms and night crawlers under a bobber.
FISH: Walleye ... Good; Toss a jig and large minnow in the deeper water areas for a bite.
NOTE: Debbie at Milo and Beavers in Savanna is very friendly and helpful with current fishing information.
BEST FISHING AREA: Mississippi River-Pool 14-15 - East Moline
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels are within the banks, but high for this time of year; fine for fishing; the Hennipen Canal is good. Fishing is good from Dam 14 to the Interstate 74 Bridge. Lake Storey and Lake George are also good. Lots of fishing activity; catching lots with Worms!
FISH: Crappie & Bluegill ... Fair; A few pan fish are biting in the clearer water areas on wax worms or jigs tipped with minnows from the dam to the 74 bridge.
FISH: Smallmouth Bass ... Fair to Good; Sylvan Slough is producing with jigs and minnows or twister tails.
FISH:Striped Bass ... Fair to Good; Look for the fish near the dam with Jigs tipped with minnows or twister tails on a jig head.
FISH: Channel Catfish ... Good; Shrimp, leeches, worms, and minnows are popular this week; fish are biting at Sylvan Slough and from Dam 14 to the 74 Bridge; mostly 1 1/2 to 3 pounders.
FISH: Flathead Catfish ... Good; Fish are hanging out in the deeper holes at Sylvan Slough averaging 5 to 12 pounds; big ones at the dam, a 55 pounder reeled in.
FISH: Carp ... Good; Offer crawdads and worms on the bottom.
FISH: Perch ... Good; Lots to catch! Crawdads or worms are working at Sylvan Slough and from Dam 14 to the I74 bridge.
NOTE: Lake Storey is also an awesome Muskie Lake with documented catches of longer than 50 inches.
NOTE: Reported by Dave at Booze and Bait in East Moline. Check out their fishing supplies soon and keep your tackle boxes stocked.
FISHING AREA: Mississippi River -Pool 14 -15 - Rock Island Area
WATER CONDITIONS: Mississippi water levels are dropping and at a pretty decent pool, but really muddy; water temperatures are in the high 70's to low 80's. Rock River levels are up above flood again from water coming down from recent rainfall. Fishing success is not great, but not terrible either.
FISH: Walleye ... Good; The tournament this past week produced lots of fish within the slot limits; crankbaits worked good; bandits under a bobber in red or red and chartreuse.
FISH: Catfish ... Spotty; Look for them at the Rock River bridge, Milan Bridge, Steel Bridge; they are hit and miss.
NOTE: Croegaerts Great Outdoors at Rock Island has needed fishing supplies for your tackle box. Don't miss out on fishing in the beautiful full moon and cool evening temperatures.
FISHING AREA: Mississippi River -Pool 18 - Gladstone Area WATER CONDITIONS:. The river is dropping; 38 pumps are pumping backwater back into the river; 4 feet deep water remains at Hudson Station; Route 34 near Gulfport hopefully will be reopened by the weekend. Gladstone Lake remains closed.
NOTE: Lots of flood damage in the area with continuing recovery efforts underway.
NOTE: Things are still a mess and being cleaned up. Area fishermen are fishing at Lake Storey and local farm ponds.
NOTE: Reported by Dry Dock at Gladstone. They have the fishing supplies, bait and super friendly service.
FISHING AREA: Mississippi River -Pool 21 - Quincy Area
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels are pretty good.
FISH: Channel Catfish ... Good; Fish from the bank or a boat with worms; lots of 10 inch size all over the place; a few bigger ones too; the back side of the bay in the current is a good spot.
FISH: Flathead Catfish ... Good; Anglers are using big chubs in the deeper holes.
NOTE: Wiemelts Bait shop in Quincy has fishing supplies and are selling fishing license. Stop by soon to pick up bait and fishing information.
FISHING AREA: Mississippi River - Lock & Dam 21
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels are falling; it still slightly above normal, maybe 2 feet; flood stage is at 15 feet; things are getting better River fishing is sad, gut give it a try.
FISH: Bluegill ... Good; Worms are working in area ponds.
FISH: Bass ... Fair to Good; Try a variety of baits in area lakes and ponds.
FISH: Catfish ... Fair to Good; Night crawlers are the bait of choice just off the bottom with bobbers in the backwater and ponds.
FISH: Carp ... Great; Fishermen are having a Hay Day bow fishing in the backwater areas.
NOTE: Merkels in Quincy has friendly service and fishing supplies.
FISHING AREA: Mississippi River - Pool 26 - 25
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels are falling and should be below flood stage on the 20th. Things are looking up!
FISH: Catfish ... Good; Lots of blue's caught this past week with night crawlers and stink bait; drifting with the current and fishing near the rock walls in 20 feet of water.
NOTE: Reported by Flood Field: See them for fishing supplies, fresh bait, and helpful information.
FISHING AREA: Mississippi River - Upper Pool 25 - Lower Pool 26 - Grafton Area
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels continue to drop; this area is still cleaning up from the high water.
FISH: Bluegill ... Good; Anglers are successful in local farm ponds.
FISH: Catfish ... Good; Night crawlers are the bait of choice.
NOTE: Cassens Bait Shop at Grafton has fresh bait and needed fishing supplies. He supplies bait to shops over a wide area.
FISHING AREA: Mississippi River - Lower Pool 26 - Alton
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels are dropping; lots of mud and debris. Full moon this week is beautiful and awesome during night fishing trips.
FISH: Catfish ... Slower; The shad have spawned and all fish are eating millions of baby shad making it hard to get a bite; during later evening hours, fish are coming up into the shallower areas to feed.
NOTE: Bluff City Tackle at Alton has everything you need for a successful fishing trip. Go see Butch at Bluff City Tackle in Alton for current fishing information. He is very friendly and helpful.
FISHING AREA: Lower Mississippi River - Wood River Area
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels remain high, but are receeding. Backwater areas are producing.
FISH: Crappie ... Fair; Fish continue to bite on minnows in deeper water near brush.
FISH: Bluegill ... Good; Crickets and red wigglers continue to produce under a bobber.
FISH: Bass ... Fair to Good; Buzz baits, crankbaits and jigs are producing; a variety of colors being used, lighter colors are good.
FISH: Catfish ... Good; Fish are biting in the deeper holes on a variety of baits.
FISH: Carp ... Very Good; Bow fishing and fishing with worms in the sloughs and shallow backwater areas are producing.
NOTE: Horseshoe Lake is high and full; look for flathead in the deeper holes.
NOTE: Reported by Dawn at Mallory Sports in Wood River; she's great to work with.
FISHING AREA: Lower Mississippi River - Belleville Area
NOTE: No fishing report available this week.
NOTE: Reported by Poppy's Bait & Tackle in Belleville.
FISHING AREA: Lower Mississippi River - Anna/Jonesboro Area
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels are dropping. Some fishing activity. Night crawlers and crickets are selling at the bait shop.
FISH: Crappie ... Slower; Fish are moving into deeper water near brush and cover and into summer patterns; offer jigs and minnows.
FISH: Bluegill ... Fair to Good; Anglers are putting crickets under a bobber in fairly shallow water near cover; fun for everyone to catch them.
FISH: Bass ... Fair to Good; Search for them in both shallow and deeper water with a variety of baits. Best results during early morning or later evening hours.
FISH: Catfish ... Fair to Good; Night crawlers are the bait of choice during later evening hours.
NOTE: The Mississippi River is on the top ten best fishing list for pan fish in Illinois. The 6,990 acre Williamson County Lake has lots of crappie.
NOTE: Three of the fishing lakes at the World Shooting and Recreational Complex in Randolph County are open. The lakes open are the 21 acre Derby Lake; stocked with 4,000 rainbow trout and also has 10 inch length range crappie,(electric trolling motors only) ; the 134 acre East Lake has an excellent largemouth bass and crappie population (a gasoline motor 10 horse power limit or electric trolling motors), and the 15 acre RV Lake has nice bluegill (no boat ramp and electric motors only allowed). For more information call 618/295-2700.
NOTE: Reported by Trail of Tears Junction at Anna-Jonesboro. The bait shop for that area. Check them out for needed tackle box supplies and bait.
WATER CONDITIONS: Download the Mississippi River fishing guides and navigation charts to locate special fishing areas.
Click on the hyperlinks below to see more info on water levels:
(Illinois Department of Natural Resources Water Levels...realtime...
http://il.water.usgs.gov/nwis-w/IL/datasum.components/owrtable.cgi
(St.Louis Corps District Water Levels)..........................
http://mvs-wc.mvs.usace.army.mil/
(Rock Island Corps District Water Levels)...realtime............
water_mvr_usace_army.htm
(USGS Water Levels)...realtime..................................
USGS water conditions.htm
FISHING AREA: Upper Mississippi River-Pool 12 -
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels are dropping and getting back to normal on most sections of the river; locks and dams re-opening; barge traffic and boating is resuming activity; levels remain above flood stage in some areas and flooding still exists. Some levees continue to be monitored. Be careful when near the river.
FISHING AREA: Upper Mississippi River-Pool 13 - Savanna Area
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels are almost normal; boaters and barges moving again; Nice weather temperatures, perfect for fishing.
FISH: Catfish ... Good; Night crawlers and leeches are getting bites in the backwater and sloughs; anglers are also bow fishing.
FISH: Bluegill ... Good; Farms ponds are producing with Wax worms under a bobber; fun to catch.
FISH: Walleye ... Good; An angler reported catching a 30 inch fish this past week.
NOTE: Debbie at Milo and Beavers in Savanna is very friendly and helpful with current fishing information.
BEST FISHING AREA: Mississippi River-Pool 14-15 - East Moline
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels are high for this time of year, but the rive is open; the river is muddy. The Rock River is just below flood stage.
FISH: Crappie & Bluegill ... Fair; A few pan fish are being caught in the clearer water areas.
FISH:Striped Bass ... Fair to Good; Look for the fish near the dam with twister tails and Jigs tipped with a minnow.
FISH: Walleye ... Fair to Good; Fish are being taken from deep water with leeches.
FISH: Channel Catfish ... Good; An average of 1 1/2 to 5 or 6 pound fish are being taken from the shallower mud flats.
FISH: Flathead Catfish ... Good; Fish are hanging out in the deeper holes.
FISH: Carp ... Good; Offer crawdads and worms on the bottom for a bite.
FISH: Perch ... Good; Crawdads or worms are the bait of choice this week.
NOTE: Lake Storey is also an awesome Muskie Lake with documented catches of longer than 50 inches.
NOTE: Reported by Dave at Booze and Bait in East Moline. Check out their fishing supplies soon and keep your tackle boxes stocked.
FISHING AREA: Mississippi River -Pool 14 -15 - Rock Island Area
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels are pretty close to normal; it's in pretty good shape again.
FISH: Crappie ... Fair to Good; Look for them in the Sunset Marina area.
FISH: Bluegill ... Fair to Good; Sunset Marina and Rock Island are producing for the anglers.
FISH: Walleye ... Good; Night crawlers are the bait of choice; anglers are hooking them with worms on the bottom near Steel Dam.
FISH: Catfish ... Fair to Good; Decent sized fish are being taken from along the Butterworth Parkway at Moline on floating bobbers with leeches or worms.
NOTE: Croegaerts Great Outdoors at Rock Island has needed fishing supplies for your tackle box.
FISHING AREA: Mississippi River -Pool 18 - Gladstone Area WATER CONDITIONS:. The river is dropping; 28,000 acres of farmland remains underwater; Route 34 remains closed near Gulfport; 1 mile still has 2 feet of water on it. Gladstone Lake is closed.
NOTE: Lots of flood damage in the area with continuing recovery efforts underway.
NOTE: The bait shope sold 3 dozen worms this past week; fishermen going to Lake Storey and local farm ponds.
NOTE: Reported by Dry Dock at Gladstone. They have the fishing supplies, bait and super friendly service.
FISHING AREA: Mississippi River -Pool 21 - Quincy Area
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels are receeding; Commercial fishermen have returned to the river.
FISH: Crappie ... Good; An angler reported catching a 3.2 pounder from a drainage ditch.
FISH: Bluegill ... Good; Wax worms are producing lots of fish in the area lakes.
FISH: Channel Catfish ... Good; Anglers are successful with Stink bait and worms near the shorelines.
FISH: Flathead Catfish ... Good; Fishermen are using big chubs in the deeper holes.
NOTE: Wiemelts Bait shop in Quincy has fishing supplies and are selling fishing license. Stop by soon to pick up bait and fishing information.
FISHING AREA: Mississippi River - Lock & Dam 21
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels are down to flood stage at 15 feet; the river is open and barges are moving again
FISH: Bluegill ... Good; Nice 1 pound sized fish are being taken from area ponds.
FISH: Bass ... Good; Decent sized 2 pound fish are being caught in area lakes and ponds with just a worm under a bobber; plastic baits are also selling.
FISH: Catfish ... Fair to Good; Suspend worms (night crawlers) off the bottom with bobbers in the shallows.
NOTE: Merkels in Quincy has friendly service and fishing supplies. Boat clubs and river camps in the area are working to recover from the flood.
FISHING AREA: Mississippi River - Pool 26 - 25
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels are dropping and back in the banks; River is open for barge traffic; Fishermen are fishing along the banks of the river with worms.
FISH: Crappie ... Fair to Good; Beetle spins are producing in area ponds and lakes.
FISH:. Blue & Channel Catfish ... Good; Anglers are successful fishing along the banks of the river with worms; night crawlers and red wigglers are selling; this weekend should be good fishing.
NOTE: Reported by Flood Field: See them for fishing supplies, fresh bait, and helpful information.
FISHING AREA: Mississippi River - Upper Pool 25 - Lower Pool 26 - Grafton Area
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels are dropping and clearing up; barges are moving again. IL Route 100 has reopened.
FISH: Bluegill ... Good; Anglers are successful in local farm ponds.
FISH: Catfish ... Good; Night crawlers and worms are producing.
NOTE: Cassens Bait Shop at Grafton has fresh bait and needed fishing supplies. He supplies bait to shops over a wide area.
FISHING AREA: Mississippi River - Lower Pool 26 - Alton
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels are dropping. Bites are picking up; a few more fishermen out.
FISH: Catfish ... Good; Skip jack and night crawlers are producing from the deeper holes; fish are also coming up to spawn and are in shallower water.
NOTE: Bluff City Tackle at Alton has everything you need for a successful fishing trip. Go see Butch at Bluff City Tackle in Alton for current fishing information. He is very friendly and helpful.
FISHING AREA: Lower Mississippi River - Wood River Area
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels remain high, but are receeding. Backwater areas are producing.
FISH: Crappie ... Fair; Fish continue to bite on minnows in deeper water near brush.
FISH: Bluegill ... Good; Crickets and red wigglers continue to produce under a bobber.
FISH: Bass ... Fair to Good; Buzz baits, crankbaits and jigs are producing; a variety of colors being used, lighter colors are good.
FISH: Catfish ... Good; Fish are biting in the deeper holes on a variety of baits.
FISH: Carp ... Very Good; Bow fishing and fishing with worms in the sloughs and shallow backwater areas are producing.
NOTE: Horseshoe Lake is high and full; look for flathead in the deeper holes.
NOTE: Reported by Dawn at Mallory Sports in Wood River; she's great to work with.
FISHING AREA: Lower Mississippi River - Belleville Area
NOTE: Still No fishing report available again this week.
NOTE: Reported by Poppy's Bait & Tackle in Belleville.
FISHING AREA: Lower Mississippi River - Anna/Jonesboro Area
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels are dropping. Fishermen are catching some fish.
FISH: Crappie ... Fair to Good; Fish are moving into deeper water near brush and cover; fish are biting on minnows.
FISH: Bluegill ... Fair to Good; Anglers are putting crickets under a bobber; fun to catch them.
FISH: Bass ... Fair to Good; Search for them in both shallow and deeper water with a variety of baits. Best results during early morning or later evening hours.
FISH: Catfish ... Fair to Good; Night crawlers are the bait of choice.
NOTE: The Mississippi River is on the top ten best fishing list for pan fish in Illinois. The 6,990 acre Williamson County Lake has lots of crappie.
NOTE: Three of the fishing lakes at the World Shooting and Recreational Complex in Randolph County are open. The lakes open are the 21 acre Derby Lake; stocked with 4,000 rainbow trout and also has 10 inch length range crappie,(electric trolling motors only) ; the 134 acre East Lake has an excellent largemouth bass and crappie population (a gasoline motor 10 horse power limit or electric trolling motors), and the 15 acre RV Lake has nice bluegill (no boat ramp and electric motors only allowed). For more information call 618/295-2700.
NOTE: Reported by Trail of Tears Junction at Anna-Jonesboro. The bait shop for that area. Check them out for needed tackle box supplies and bait.
WATER CONDITIONS: Download the Mississippi River fishing guides and navigation charts to locate special fishing areas.
Click on the hyperlinks below to see more info on water levels:
(Illinois Department of Natural Resources Water Levels...realtime...
http://il.water.usgs.gov/nwis-w/IL/datasum.components/owrtable.cgi
(St.Louis Corps District Water Levels)..........................
http://mvs-wc.mvs.usace.army.mil/
(Rock Island Corps District Water Levels)...realtime............
water_mvr_usace_army.htm
(USGS Water Levels)...realtime..................................
USGS water conditions.htm
FISHING AREA: Upper Mississippi River-Pool 12 -
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels are high and above flood stage on a large part of the river. Extensive flooding still exists. Be extremely careful when near the river.
FISHING AREA: Upper Mississippi River-Pool 13 - Savanna Area
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels have drop down to 13.7 feet; Nice weather temperatures, perfect for fishing.
FISH: Crappie ... Fair; Minnows are working in the clearer water areas.
FISH: Catfish ... Good; Night crawlers and stink bait are producing big ones from the backwater and sloughs; anglers are also bow fishing.
FISH: Bluegill ... Good; Put Wax worms under a bobber and reel them in.
NOTE: Debbie at Milo and Beavers in Savanna is very friendly and helpful with current fishing information. Enjoy the Fireworks! Bring along your fishing pole.
BEST FISHING AREA: Mississippi River-Pool 14-15 - East Moline
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels have dropped back into the banks; this week the levels are near 11 feet; flood stage is 15 feet; the river is muddy.
NOTES: Fishing is slow, but anglers are fishing the backwater areas, smaller lakes and ponds, and strip pits.
FISH:Striped Bass ... Fair; Jigs tipped with a minnow, artificial baits,buzz baits, and deeper running lures are producing in deeper water.
FISH: Channel Catfish ... Fair; A few are being caught along the banks with shrimp, crawfish, shad, and worms.
FISH: Carp ... Good; Bow fishing continues to be popular in the backwater areas; temperatures have been a little chilly for stink bait to work well this past week.
FISH: Perch ... Good; Anglers are successful using worms, minnows, and crawfish.
NOTE: Lake Storey is also an awesome Muskie Lake with documented catches of longer than 50 inches.
NOTE: Reported by Dave at Booze and Bait in East Moline. Check out their fishing supplies soon and keep your tackle boxes stocked.
FISHING AREA: Mississippi River -Pool 14 -15 - Rock Island Area
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels are dropping and beginning to get stabilized. Lots of fishing activity.
FISH: Crappie ... Fair to Good; Look for them in the Milan Bridge area and the mouth of Mill Creek. Sunset Lake and backwater areas are also producing.
FISH: Bluegill ... Fair to Good; Anglers are catching fish as they feed in shallow water in the Milan Area and mouth of Mill Creek.
FISH: Striped Bass ... Decent; Fishermen are having pretty good luck at the mouth of Mill Creek and near the Milan Bridge.
FISH: Walleye ... Good; Steel Dam is a little high, but fish are biting; also look for them at the mouth of Mill Creek
FISH: Sauger ... Spotty; Look for them in the Steel Dam area.
FISH: Channel Catfish .. Fair to Good; Anglers are successful at the mouth of Mill Creek.
FISH: Flathead Catfish ... Decent; The Milan Bridge area and the mouth of Mill creek are the best areas this week.
NOTE: Croegaerts Great Outdoors at Rock Island has needed fishing supplies for your tackle box.
FISHING AREA: Mississippi River -Pool 18 - Gladstone Area WATER CONDITIONS:. The river is dropping rapidly but remain above flood stage; levels are near 18 feet; flood stage is 15 feet; Route 34 remains closed near Gulfport.
NOTE: Lots of flood damage in the area. The railroad is hauling lots of rock to repair the railroad bridge in this area; be careful and watch for large trucks.
NOTE: Reported by Dry Dock at Gladstone. They have the fishing supplies, bait and super friendly service.
FISHING AREA: Mississippi River -Pool 21 - Quincy Area
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels have dropped another two feet this week. Nice weather forecast for the July 4th weekend. Enjoy a fishing trip during the holiday weekend.
FISH: Crappie ... good; Big ones are being taken from the ditches.
FISH: Catfish ... Good; Anglers are successful with a variety of baits.
FISH: Flatheads ... Good; Fishermen are using big chubs in the deeper holes.
NOTE: Wiemelts Bait shop in Quincy has fishing supplies and are selling fishing license. Stop by soon to pick up bait and fishing information.
FISHING AREA: Mississippi River - Lock & Dam 21
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels are dropping 6 inches per day
FISH: Bass ... Good; Area lakes and ponds are producing; the City Reservoir is producing large sized fish near submerged logs off points; a 27 pound limit was reported; also use top water baits during early morning and later evening hours when fish feed. Slow moving baits such as plastic worms and letting spinners fall are working for the anglers in deeper water levels.
FISH: Catfish ... Fair to Good; Anglers successful using night crawlers in drainage ditches.
NOTE: Merkels in Quincy has friendly service and fishing supplies. Fireworks are cancelled for July 4th and moved to a later date.
FISHING AREA: Mississippi River - Pool 26 - 25
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels are receeding; it has slowly dropped 6 to 8 inches; Fishermen are fishing along the banks of the river with worms.
FISH: Striper ... Good; Fish are biting on small jigs tossed near the mayfly hatch for a bite.
FISH:. Blue & Channel Catfish ... Good; Anglers are successful fishing along the banks of the river with worms; the Illinois River is a hot spot. Trot lines are being baited with night crawlers.
NOTE: Reported by Flood Field: See them for fishing supplies, fresh bait, and helpful information. Have a nice July 4th Holiday.
FISHING AREA: Mississippi River - Upper Pool 25 - Lower Pool 26 - Grafton Area
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels have dropped 2 inches this past week in this area. IL State Route 100 remains closed in Grafton.
FISH: Catfish ... Good; Night crawlers and worms are working. Bow fishing in the backwater is popular on newly covered ground are good.
NOTE: Cassens Bait Shop at Grafton has fresh bait and needed fishing supplies. He supplies bait to shops over a wide area.
FISHING AREA: Mississippi River - Lower Pool 26 - Alton
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels are high and above flood stage, but steady. Have a safe July 4th Holiday.
FISH: Crappie ... Fair to Good; Fish are beginning to settle down; most are fishing in the backwater with meal worms and red wigglers.
FISH: Bass ... Fair to Good; Most anglers using crankbaits or bottom plastic baits in area lakes, ponds, and strip pits.
FISH: Catfish ... Good; Skip jack is producing from the deeper holes if you can get to them.
NOTE: Bluff City Tackle at Alton has everything you need for a successful fishing trip. Go see Butch at Bluff City Tackle in Alton for current fishing information. He is very friendly and helpful.
FISHING AREA: Lower Mississippi River - Wood River Area
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels continue to be high; hopefully levels have crested.
FISH: Crappie ... Fair; Fish continue to bite on minnows in deep water.
FISH: Bluegill ... Good; Crickets and red wigglers are still working.
FISH: Bass ... Fair to Good; Buzz baits, crankbaits and jigs are producing; a variety of colors being used, lighter colors are good.
FISH: Catfish ... Good; Fish are biting in the backwater areas on a variety of baits.
FISH: Carp ... Very Good; Bow fishing and fishing with worms in the sloughs and shallow backwater areas are producing.
NOTE: Horseshoe Lake has produced flathead from the deeper dredged holes this past week.
NOTE: Reported by Dawn at Mallory Sports in Wood River; she's great to work with. Happy 4th!
FISHING AREA: Lower Mississippi River - Belleville Area
NOTE: Still No fishing report available again this week.
NOTE: Reported by Poppy's Bait & Tackle in Belleville.
FISHING AREA: Lower Mississippi River - Anna/Jonesboro Area
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels continue to rise as water comes down from the north; weather temperatures have been enjoyable this past week in Southern Illinois.
FISH: Crappie ... Fair to Good; Anglers are catching fish near the shorlines in area ponds and lakes.
FISH: Bluegill ... Fair to Good; Put crickets or wax worms under a bobber; fun to catch them.
FISH: Bass ... Good; Buzz baits, tube jigs, and plastic baits are producing this week.
FISH: Catfish ... Fair to Good; Nice sized fish being taken with night crawlers from along the shorelines and deeper holes with cut baits.
NOTE: The Mississippi River is on the top ten best fishing list for pan fish in Illinois. The 6,990 acre Williamson County Lake has lots of crappie.
NOTE: Three of the fishing lakes at the World Shooting and Recreational Complex in Randolph County are open. The lakes open are the 21 acre Derby Lake; stocked with 4,000 rainbow trout and also has 10 inch length range crappie,(electric trolling motors only) ; the 134 acre East Lake has an excellent largemouth bass and crappie population (a gasoline motor 10 horse power limit or electric trolling motors), and the 15 acre RV Lake has nice bluegill (no boat ramp and electric motors only allowed). For more information call 618/295-2700.
NOTE: Reported by Trail of Tears Junction at Anna-Jonesboro. The bait shop for that area. Check them out for needed tackle box supplies and bait. Fireworks display in the area, bring your fishing pole along.
WATER CONDITIONS: Download the Mississippi River fishing guides and navigation charts to locate special fishing areas.
Click on the hyperlinks below to see more info on water levels:
(Illinois Department of Natural Resources Water Levels...realtime...
http://il.water.usgs.gov/nwis-w/IL/datasum.components/owrtable.cgi
(St.Louis Corps District Water Levels)..........................
http://mvs-wc.mvs.usace.army.mil/
(Rock Island Corps District Water Levels)...realtime............
water_mvr_usace_army.htm
(USGS Water Levels)...realtime..................................
USGS water conditions.htm
FISHING AREA: Upper Mississippi River-Pool 12 -
WATER CONDITIONS: High water levels have slowed fishing activity. Flooding still exists in many areas.
FISHING AREA: Upper Mississippi River-Pool 13 - Savanna Area
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels have drop over 2 feet, down to 16 feet; it's still dirty with debris; Pool 13 is open this week.
FISH: Crappie ... Fair; Minnows are producing from clearer water.
FISH: Catfish ... Good; Night crawlers and stink bait are producing big ones from the backwater and sloughs; anglers are also bow fishing.
FISH: Bluegill ... Good; Put Wax worms under a bobber and reel them in.
NOTE: Debbie at Milo and Beavers in Savanna is very friendly and helpful.
BEST FISHING AREA: Mississippi River-Pool 14-15 - East Moline
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels are dropping; this week the levels are near 17 feet; flood stage is 15 feet; the river continues to be closed to barges and boats.
NOTES: Fishing is slow, but anglers are fishing the backwater areas, smaller lakes and ponds, and strip pits.
FISH:Striped Bass ... Fair; Fish are biting on crawfish and worms in deeper water of area farm ponds and strip pits.
FISH: Channel Catfish ... Fair; Anglers fishing the backwater areas and from the banks with cut shad, shrimp, worms and leeches in fairly shallow water.
FISH: Carp ... Good; Bow fishing is popular in the backwater areas.
NOTE: Lake Storey is also an awesome Muskie Lake with documented catches of longer than 50 inches.
NOTE: Reported by Dave at Booze and Bait in East Moline. Check out their fishing supplies soon and keep your tackle boxes stocked.
FISHING AREA: Mississippi River -Pool 14 -15 - Rock Island Area
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels are dropping; the backwater is down.
FISH: Crappie ... Fair; Fish for them in the Milan Area, Mill Creek, and Lake George.
FISH: Bluegill ... Fair to Good; Anglers are catching fish as they feed in shallow water in the Milan Area, Mill Creek and Lake George with worms.
NOTE: Croegaerts Great Outdoors at Rock Island has needed fishing supplies for your tackle box.
FISHING AREA: Mississippi River -Pool 18 - Gladstone Area
WATER CONDITIONS: The river dropped 1 foot, but is still closed; Route 34 is closed near Gulfport.
NOTE: Lots of flood damage in the area.
NOTE: Reported by Dry Dock at Gladstone. They have the fishing supplies, bait and super friendly service.
FISHING AREA: Mississippi River -Pool 21 - Quincy Area
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels have dropped one foot this week; the river has been closed this past week.
NOTE: Wiemelts Bait shop in Quincy has fishing supplies and are selling fishing license. Stop by soon to pick up bait and fishing information.
FISHING AREA: Mississippi River - Lock & Dam 21
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels are high and muddy; the river has been closed to barge and large boat traffic this past week Not many fishing due to the water conditions.
FISH: Catfish ... Fair to Good; Night crawlers and basic tackle supplies are being used by anglers this week; Bow fishing is popular; some are able to fish in their own flooded back yards.
NOTE: Merkels in Quincy has friendly service and fishing supplies
FISHING AREA: Mississippi River - Pool 26 - 25
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels are flooded; should crest soon; Route 100 is closed near Grafton; Fishermen are fishing along the banks of the river.
FISH: Striper ... Good; Fish are biting on the Mayfly hatch; toss small jigs and reel them in.
FISH:. Blue & Channel Catfish ... Good; Trot lines are being baited with night crawlers; fishermen are successful along the banks of the river; especially the Illinois River using night crawlers.
NOTE: Reported by Flood Field: See them for fishing supplies, fresh bait, and helpful information. The leeve was breeched at Campsville, MO. this week.
FISHING AREA: Mississippi River - Upper Pool 25 - Lower Pool 26 - Grafton Area
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels are up and flooding with lots of floating brush and debris. The river should crest this week.
FISH: Catfish ... Very Good; Night crawlers and worms are working great! Bow fishing in the backwater is popular and back yard fishing where flood waters have covered are good.
NOTE: Cassens Bait Shop at Grafton has fresh bait and needed fishing supplies. He supplies bait to shops over a wide area.
FISHING AREA: Mississippi River - Lower Pool 26 - Alton
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels are high, but fairly steady; conditions are muddy, and dirty, with floating debris. Fishing success is slower due to the water conditions, but fish are biting if you can get to them.
FISH: Crappie ... Fair to Good; Fish are beginning to settle down; most are fishing in the backwater with meal worms and red wigglers.
FISH: Bass ... Fair to Good; Most anglers using crankbaits or bottom plastic baits on area lakes, stip pits, and ponds.
FISH: Catfish ... Fair to Good; Fish are biting in the backwaters and deeper holes on a variety of baits.
FISH: Carp ... Good; Nice sized fish have been caught from the backwaters.
NOTE: Bluff City Tackle at Alton has everything you need for a successful fishing trip. Go see Butch at Bluff City Tackle in Alton for current fishing information. He is very friendly and helpful.
FISHING AREA: Lower Mississippi River - Wood River Area
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels are high, but have receeded some; everything is biting.
FISH: Crappie ... Fair; Fish are still biting on minnows; they are later than normal due to the changing weather conditions.
FISH: Bluegill ... Good; Crickets and red wigglers are selling.
FISH: Bass ... Fair to Good; Buzz baits, crankbaits and jigs are producing; a variety of colors being used, but white, yellow or chartreuse is good.
FISH: Catfish ... Good; Fish are biting in the backwater areas on stink baits both dip and dough; slower for chicken livers, shad, and herring because of the access to deeper water.
FISH: Carp ... Very Good; Bow fishing is successful in the sloughs and shallow backwater.
NOTE: Horseshoe Lake has produced flathead from the deeper dredged holes this past week.
NOTE: Reported by Dawn at Mallory Sports in Wood River; she's great to work with.
FISHING AREA: Lower Mississippi River - Belleville Area
NOTE: No fishing report available again this week.
NOTE: Reported by Poppy's Bait & Tackle in Belleville.
FISHING AREA: Lower Mississippi River - Anna/Jonesboro Area
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels are up some as water comes down from the north.
FISH: Crappie ... Fair to Good; Anglers are getting bites in deeper water near bursh or structure.
FISH: Bluegill ... Fair to Good; Fish are biting on crickets and some on wax worms.
FISH: Bass ... Good; Tube jigs are producing this week.
FISH: Catfish ... Fair to Good; Nice sized fish being taken with night crawlers from along the shorelines.
NOTE: The Mississippi River is on the top ten best fishing list for pan fish in Illinois. The 6,990 acre Williamson County Lake has lots of crappie.
NOTE: Three of the fishing lakes at the World Shooting and Recreational Complex in Randolph County are open. The lakes open are the 21 acre Derby Lake; stocked with 4,000 rainbow trout and also has 10 inch length range crappie,(electric trolling motors only) ; the 134 acre East Lake has an excellent largemouth bass and crappie population (a gasoline motor 10 horse power limit or electric trolling motors), and the 15 acre RV Lake has nice bluegill (no boat ramp and electric motors only allowed). For more information call 618/295-2700.
NOTE: Reported by Trail of Tears Junction at Anna-Jonesboro. The bait shop for that area. Check them out for needed tackle box supplies and bait.
WATER CONDITIONS: Download the Mississippi River fishing guides and navigation charts to locate special fishing areas.
Click on the hyperlinks below to see more info on water levels:
(Illinois Department of Natural Resources Water Levels...realtime...
http://il.water.usgs.gov/nwis-w/IL/datasum.components/owrtable.cgi
(St.Louis Corps District Water Levels)..........................
http://mvs-wc.mvs.usace.army.mil/
(Rock Island Corps District Water Levels)...realtime............
water_mvr_usace_army.htm
(USGS Water Levels)...realtime..................................
USGS water conditions.htm
FISHING AREA: Upper Mississippi River-Pool 12 -
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels in the entire river system are up and above flood stage. Extremely high water levels have slowed fishing activity. The river is closed from St. Louis to Rock Island for barge and large boat traffic. Serious flooding exists.
FISHING AREA: Upper Mississippi River-Pool 13 - Savanna Area
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels are up near 18.8 feet and dirty with debris; the river is closed to barge and large boat traffic.
FISH: Catfish ... Good; Anglers are catching big ones in the backwater and sloughs by bow fishing.
FISH: Buffalo ... Good; Bowing fishing in the shallow water is popular.
NOTE: Debbie at Milo and Beavers in Savanna is very friendly and helpful with current fishing information.
BEST FISHING AREA: Mississippi River-Pool 14-15 - East Moline
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels are near 21 feet; flood stage is 15 feet; the river is closed to barges and boats.
FISH: Bluegill ... Good; Farm ponds are best; fish are bedding and active; toss a wax worm under a bobber in shallow water.
FISH:Striped Bass ... Fair to Good; Fish are biting on crawfish and worms in deeper water of area farm ponds.
FISH: Channel Catfish ... Good; Anglers fishing from the bank with cut shad, shrimp, worms and leeches in fairly shallow water.
FISH: Carp ... Good; Bow fishing is popular near Campbells Island. Some are fishing in their flooded back yard.
NOTE: Lake Storey is also an awesome Muskie Lake with documented catches of longer than 50 inches.
NOTE: Reported by Dave at Booze and Bait in East Moline. Check out their fishing supplies soon and keep your tackle boxes stocked.
FISHING AREA: Mississippi River -Pool 14 -15 - Rock Island Area
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels are up above flood stage; river is closed to barge and large boat traffic.
FISH: Crappie ... Fair to Good; Fish are in shallow water eating worms as they crawl out of the banks.
FISH: Bluegill ... Fair to Good; Anglers are catching fish as they feed in shallow water on worms.
FISH: Walleye ... Fair; Fish at Sunset Marina just off the banks with twister tails.
FISH: Sauger ... Fair; Anglers are successful using twister tails at Sunset Marina near the banks.
NOTE: Mill Creek is producing and is popular with fishermen for everything; fish in 20 feet of water.
NOTE: Croegaerts Great Outdoors at Rock Island has needed fishing supplies for your tackle box.
FISHING AREA: Mississippi River -Pool 18 - Gladstone Area
WATER CONDITIONS: The river leeve breeched at Gulfport and also south, near Winfield, MO; Route 34 is closed near Gulfport.
NOTE: Reported by Dry Dock at Gladstone. They have the fishing supplies, bait and super friendly service.
FISHING AREA: Mississippi River -Pool 21 - Quincy Area
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels are extremely high; a crest is expected to be near 1993 levels. The river has been closed this past week.
NOTE: Wiemelts Bait shop in Quincy has fishing supplies and are selling fishing license. Stop by soon to pick up bait and fishing information.
FISHING AREA: Mississippi River - Lock & Dam 21
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels are above 32 feet; flood stage is 17 feet; Water is high and muddy; the river is closed to barge and large boat traffic
FISH: Catfish ... Fair to Good; Bow fishing is popular; some are fishing in their flooded back yards.
NOTE: Merkels in Quincy has friendly service and fishing supplies.
FISHING AREA: Mississippi River - Pool 26 - 25
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels are up above flood stage. No wake allowed. Fishermen are fishing off banks, roads, and in farm fields.
FISH:. Blue & Channel Catfish ... Good; Trot lines are being baited with night crawlers, cut bait such as Asian carp, or shad. Bow fishing is popular; an angler reported getting a 24 inch fish from the shallows of a field recently.
NOTE: Reported by Flood Field: See them for fishing supplies, fresh bait, and helpful information.
FISHING AREA: Mississippi River - Upper Pool 25 - Lower Pool 26 - Grafton Area
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels are up and flooding with lots of floating brush and debris.
FISH: Catfish ... Fair to Good; Bow fishing in the backwater.
NOTE: Cassens Bait Shop at Grafton has fresh bait and needed fishing supplies. He supplies bait to shops over a wide area.
FISHING AREA: Mississippi River - Lower Pool 26 - Alton
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels are above flood stage, muddy, and dirty. Closed to barge and boat traffic. The river is dangerous.
FISH: Crappie ... Fair to Good; Anglers are successful in the backwater with meal worms and red wigglers.
FISH: Catfish ... Fair to Good; Three big Blues were caught with skip jack this past week.
NOTE: Bluff City Tackle at Alton has everything you need for a successful fishing trip. Go see Butch at Bluff City Tackle in Alton for current fishing information. He is very friendly and helpful.
FISHING AREA: Lower Mississippi River - Wood River Area
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels are high and forecast to be above flood stage.
FISH: Bluegill ... Good; Tons of crickets selling; also tube worms in assorted colors, wax worms, and meal worms.
FISH: Bass ... Fair to Good; Crankbaits, hair jigs and frogs are best this week; slower for soft plastics and spinners.
FISH: Catfish ... Good; Fish are biting in the backwater areas; night crawlers are always good to use.
FISH: Carp ... Very Good; Bow fishing in the sloughs is going like crazy! Fishermen are Wading out in the shallow backwater.
NOTE: Reported by Dawn at Mallory Sports in Wood River; she's great to work with.
FISHING AREA: Lower Mississippi River - Belleville Area
NOTE: No fishing report available again this week.
NOTE: Reported by Poppy's Bait & Tackle in Belleville.
FISHING AREA: Lower Mississippi River - Anna/Jonesboro Area
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels are full and rising; weather temperatures have been enjoyable this past week in Southern Illinois.
FISH: Bluegill ... Fair to Good; Fish are biting on crickets and some on wax worms.
FISH: Catfish ... Fair to Good; Fish being taken with night crawlers from backwater areas and from along the shorelines.
NOTE: The Mississippi River is on the top ten best fishing list for pan fish in Illinois. The 6,990 acre Williamson County Lake has lots of crappie.
NOTE: Three of the fishing lakes at the World Shooting and Recreational Complex in Randolph County are open. The lakes open are the 21 acre Derby Lake; stocked with 4,000 rainbow trout and also has 10 inch length range crappie,(electric trolling motors only) ; the 134 acre East Lake has an excellent largemouth bass and crappie population (a gasoline motor 10 horse power limit or electric trolling motors), and the 15 acre RV Lake has nice bluegill (no boat ramp and electric motors only allowed). For more information call 618/295-2700.
NOTE: Reported by Trail of Tears Junction at Anna-Jonesboro. The bait shop for that area. Check them out for needed tackle box supplies and bait. Check out Cave Fest this weekend.
WATER CONDITIONS: Download the Mississippi River fishing guides and navigation charts to locate special fishing areas.
Click on the hyperlinks below to see more info on water levels:
(Illinois Department of Natural Resources Water Levels...realtime...
http://il.water.usgs.gov/nwis-w/IL/datasum.components/owrtable.cgi
(St.Louis Corps District Water Levels)..........................
http://mvs-wc.mvs.usace.army.mil/
(Rock Island Corps District Water Levels)...realtime............
water_mvr_usace_army.htm
(USGS Water Levels)...realtime..................................
USGS water conditions.htm
FISHING AREA: Upper Mississippi River-Pool 12 -
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels in the river system are up from rainfall throughout the state this past week. Tons of rain!
FISHING AREA: Upper Mississippi River-Pool 13 - Savanna Area
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels are up and dirty; over the banks; the creeks and drainage ditches are out and romping; fishermen are thinking about fishing.
NOTE: Debbie at Milo and Beavers in Savanna is very friendly and helpful with current fishing information.
BEST FISHING AREA: Mississippi River-Pool 14-15 - East Moline
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels are at 17.5 feet; flood stage is 15 feet; Lots of rainfall received again this past week.
FISH: Crappie ... Fair; Farm ponds are best with jigs tipped with a minnow.
FISH: Bluegill ... Good; Fish are on beds and aggressively attack a wax worm under a bobber or mini's in area ponds.
FISH: White Bass ... Fair to Good; Ffish are biting on crawfish and worms in deeper water.
FISH: Channel Catfish ... Good; Cut shad, shrimp, worms and leeches are producing in fairly shallow water.
FISH: Flathead Catfish ... Fair; A few big flatheads were caught this past week from the deeper holes.
FISH: Perch & Drum... Good; Anglers are successful in deeper water with worms and crayfish.
NOTE: Lake Storey is also an awesome Muskie Lake with documented catches of longer than 50 inches.
NOTE: Reported by Dave at Booze and Bait in East Moline. Check out their fishing supplies soon and keep your tackle boxes stocked.
FISHING AREA: Mississippi River -Pool 14 -15 - Rock Island Area
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels are up three feet or more over flood; Storms this past week left lots of water and muddy conditions. Not much fishing activity to report.
NOTE: Croegaerts Great Outdoors at Rock Island has needed fishing supplies for your tackle box.
FISHING AREA: Mississippi River -Pool 18 - Gladstone Area
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels are high with a swift current; Very few are fishing on the river due to the high water levels; Gladstone Lake is producing.
FISH: Channel Catfish ... Good; Good eating sizes are being taken from against the banks out of the current. An angler reported catching 8 from off the rocks at lock & dam 17 this past week.
FISH: Flathead Catfish ... Good; Look for them in the deeper holes with stink bait.
FISH: Blue Catfish ... Good; Nice sized fish were caught this past week near the shoreline while fishing from the bank.
NOTE: Reported by Dry Dock at Gladstone. They have the fishing supplies and bait and super friendly service.
FISHING AREA: Mississippi River -Pool 21 - Quincy Area
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels are up and out of the banks with a swift current from recent rainfall; creeks are muddy and romping. Lots of rainfall this past week. The river is predicted to raise another 5 feet over last weeks levels.
FISH: Channel Catfish ... Good; Fish are being taken from shallow water with minnows; search along shorelines out of the current and in the creeks.
NOTE: Wiemelts Bait shop in Quincy has fishing supplies and are selling fishing license. Stop by soon to pick up bait and fishing information.
FISHING AREA: Mississippi River - Lock & Dam 21
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels are growing! Water is high and muddy; everything is soggy from rainfall this past week; fishing activity is slow due to the conditions
FISH: Crappie ... Fair; A few fish are being taken with jigs and minnows from area lakes and ponds.
FISH: Bluegill ... Fair; A few are being caught in local lakes, farm ponds and area quarries with wax worms.
FISH: Catfish ... Fair; A few fish are being taken with night crawlers.
NOTE: Merkels in Quincy has friendly service and fishing supplies.
FISHING AREA: Mississippi River - Pool 26 - 25
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels are up! Finding a way into the river is the challenge.
FISH: Bluegill ... Fair; Wax worms, chartreuse and white or red and white jigs are producing from area ponds.
FISH: Catfish ... Good; Trot lines are being baited with night crawlers, chicken livers, or shad; the water tempertures are warm enough for stink bait to work.
NOTE: Reported by Flood Field: See them for fishing supplies, fresh bait, and helpful information.
FISHING AREA: Mississippi River - Upper Pool 25 - Lower Pool 26 - Grafton Area
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels are up and flooding with lots of brush and debris. A few bank fishermen are trying.
FISH: Catfish ... Fair to Good; Sonny's stink bait is producing near the shorelines out of the current in quiet water.
NOTE: Cassens Bait Shop at Grafton has fresh bait and needed fishing supplies. He supplies bait to shops over a wide area.
FISHING AREA: Mississippi River - Lower Pool 26 - Alton
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels are up, muddy, and dirty. (A guy named Noah came in and bought two gold fish, kinda worried him a little.)
FISH: Catfish ... Fair to Good; A few smaller sizes of fish being caught with skip jack.
NOTE: Bluff City Tackle at Alton has everything you need for a successful fishing trip. Go see Butch at Bluff City Tackle in Alton for current fishing information. He is very friendly and helpful.
FISHING AREA: Lower Mississippi River - Wood River Area
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels are high; not much of the river bank showing at the Chain of Rocks Bridge (270). More rainfall this week and hot weather temperatures.
FISH: Bluegill ... Good; Red wigglers are producing in the shallows.
FISH: Bass ... Fair to Good; Anglers using spinners, soft plastics, and crankbaits in various colors and presentations.
FISH: Catfish ... Good; Fish are biting on shad and herring; the big fish hang out in the deeper Alton pool holes. Smaller sizes are biting on night crawlers.
NOTE: Reported by Dawn at Mallory Sports in Wood River; she's great to work with.
FISHING AREA: Lower Mississippi River - Belleville Area
NOTE: No fishing report available again this week.
NOTE: Reported by Poppy's Bait & Tackle in Belleville.
FISHING AREA: Lower Mississippi River - Anna/Jonesboro Area
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels are up from rainfall received this past week; fishing has slowed; weather temperatures have been hot.
FISH: Bluegill ... Fair to Good; Fish are biting on night crawlers and some crickets.
FISH: Catfish ... Fair to Good; Warmer water temperatures have increased angling success; fish biting on night crawlers in backwater areas and along shorelines.
NOTE: The Mississippi River is on the top ten best fishing list for pan fish in Illinois. The 6,990 acre Williamson County Lake has lots of crappie.
NOTE: Three of the fishing lakes at the World Shooting and Recreational Complex in Randolph County are open. The lakes open are the 21 acre Derby Lake; stocked with 4,000 rainbow trout and also has 10 inch length range crappie,(electric trolling motors only) ; the 134 acre East Lake has an excellent largemouth bass and crappie population (a gasoline motor 10 horse power limit or electric trolling motors), and the 15 acre RV Lake has nice bluegill (no boat ramp and electric motors only allowed). For more information call 618/295-2700.
NOTE: Reported by Trail of Tears Junction at Anna-Jonesboro. The bait shop for that area. Check them out for needed tackle box supplies and bait.
WATER CONDITIONS: Download the Mississippi River fishing guides and navigation charts to locate special fishing areas.
Click on the hyperlinks below to see more info on water levels:
(Illinois Department of Natural Resources Water Levels...realtime...
http://il.water.usgs.gov/nwis-w/IL/datasum.components/owrtable.cgi
(St.Louis Corps District Water Levels)..........................
http://mvs-wc.mvs.usace.army.mil/
(Rock Island Corps District Water Levels)...realtime............
water_mvr_usace_army.htm
(USGS Water Levels)...realtime..................................
USGS water conditions.htm
FISHING AREA: Upper Mississippi River-Pool 12 -
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels in the river system continue are up from recent rainfall. FREE FISHING DAYS June 6th-9th.
FISHING AREA: Upper Mississippi River-Pool 13 - Savanna Area
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels are up and dirty; the creeks are moving; it's been raining again this week.
FISH: Crappie ... Good; Nice sized fish are biting on crappie minnows near the shorelines.
FISH: Striped Bass ... Good; Good sized fish are biting on leeches. Lots of boats for the tournament this past week.
FISH: Catfish ... Good; Night crawlers are picking up action in quiet water out of the current.
FISH: Perch ... Good; Fish are biting on worms.
NOTE: Debbie at Milo and Beavers in Savanna is very friendly and helpful with current fishing information.
BEST FISHING AREA: Mississippi River-Pool 14-15 - East Moline
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels are up and dirty; Lots of rainfall this past week makes for wet fishermen and slower activity. Don't miss Free Fishing Days this weekend.
FISH: Crappie ... Fair; A few fish are being taken from area strip pits, lakes, and farm ponds with jigs tipped with a minnow.
FISH: Bluegill ... Fair; A few are being caught with wax worms under a bobber in the shallows of area ponds, lakes, and strip pits.
FISH: Largemouth Bass ... Fair; Smaller sized fish are hitting on jigs and minnows in fairly shallow water.
FISH: Smallmouth Bass ... Good; Sylvan slough is producing with jigs. Catch and release.
FISH: Striped Bass ... Fair to Good; A few larger sized fish are biting on a jig and minnow in fairly close to the banks.
FISH: Catfish ... Good; Shad, shrimp and leeches are producing in fairly shallow water.
FISH: Perch & Drum... Good; Anglers are successful by the dam with worms and minnows.
NOTE: Lake Storey is also an awesome Muskie Lake with documented catches of longer than 50 inches.
NOTE: Reported by Dave at Booze and Bait in East Moline. Check out their fishing supplies soon and keep your tackle boxes stocked.
FISHING AREA: Mississippi River -Pool 14 -15 - Rock Island Area
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels up a little and really muddy. Hennipen Canal has improved fishing possibilities.
FISH: Crappie ... Fair; Fish have moved out into clearer water; they don't like the muddy conditions.
FISH: Bluegill ... Fair; Look for fish in deeper clearer water with wax worms under a bobber.
FISH: Striped Bass ... Slow; The Milan, Steel Dam, and Hennipen Canal areas are producing.
FISH: Walleye ... Fair; Offer jigs and twister tails below the Steel Dam.
FISH: Sauger ... Slow; Anglers are having the best luck in deep water.
FISH: Catfish ... Decent; Dip bait is working between Rock Island and the Hampton Dam.
NOTE: Croegaerts Great Outdoors at Rock Island has needed fishing supplies for your tackle box.
FISHING AREA: Mississippi River -Pool 18 - Gladstone Area
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels are up from recent rainfall; levels are at 13 plus feet; Very few are fishing due to the high water levels.
FISH: Crappie ... Fair; Pre spawn conditions; Anglers are catching black males with minnows from shallow water; females have eggs.
FISH: Bluegill ... Fair; Anglers are catching a few, mainly in farm ponds and area lakes from shallower water with minnows.
FISH: Catfish ... Fair; Worms are producing in quieter backwater areas.
NOTE: Reported by Dry Dock at Gladstone. They have the fishing supplies and bait and super friendly service.
FISHING AREA: Mississippi River -Pool 21 - Quincy Area
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels are up and out of the banks with a swift current from recent rainfall; creeks are muddy and romping. Lots of rainfall this past week.
FISH: Crappie ... Fair; A few fish are biting on minnows in the shallows. Lakes and ponds still producing.
FISH: Bluegill ... Fair; A few fish are biting on minnows under a bobber in shallower areas along with the crappie.
FISH: Channel Catfish ... Fair; A few are being taken from shallow water with stink bait.
NOTE: Wiemelts Bait shop in Quincy has fishing supplies and are selling fishing license. Stop by soon to pick up bait and fishing information.
FISHING AREA: Mississippi River - Lock & Dam 21
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels are up and out of the banks with a swift current; creeks are up and muddy; really romping form 7 inches of rainfall this past week in this area
FISH: Crappie ... Fair; A few fish are being taken with jigs and minnows. Lakes and ponds are still producing.
FISH: Bluegill ... Fair; A few are being caught in local lakes and farm ponds and area quarries with wax worms.
FISH: Catfish ... Fair; A few fish are being taken with chicken livers, stink bait, or night crawlers from the shallows.
NOTE: Merkels in Quincy has friendly service and fishing supplies.
FISHING AREA: Mississippi River - Pool 26 - 25
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels are stabilizing and leveling off; fishermen can access boat ramps again; Bufflo knats are gone. Fishing in pickin up!
FISH: Crappie ... Good; Anglers are successful bank fishing with yellow and white tube sliders.
FISH: Bluegill ... Good; Bank fishing is improving; Fish are biting on Wax worm, black and white sliders with a jig head in the shallower water.
FISH: Catfish ... Great; Fishermen catching a boat full! put worms or stink bait in 20 feet of water and reel them in.
FISH: Perch ... Good; Lots of fish biting on night crawlers.
NOTE: Reported by Flood Field: See them for fishing supplies, fresh bait, and helpful information. Duck blind drawings have been popular this week.
FISHING AREA: Mississippi River - Upper Pool 25 - Lower Pool 26 - Grafton Area
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels are almost normal with a swift current; Lots of worms selling.
FISH: Catfish ... Fair to Good; Fish are biting on Sonny's stink bait along shorelines out of the current in quiet water; an angler reported catching 17 this past week.
FISH: Bluegill ... Good; Continue to offer crickets near bedding areas.
NOTE: Cassens Bait Shop at Grafton has fresh bait and needed fishing supplies. He supplies bait to shops over a wide area.
FISHING AREA: Mississippi River - Lower Pool 26 - Alton
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels have dropped and clarity is dirty; Fish are not real aggressive due to the weather conditions. Free Fishing Days June 6th - 9th.
FISH: Crappie ... Fair to Good; Activity is picking up a little; a few fish are being taken from the shallows with jigs and minnows.
FISH: Bluegill ... Good; Fish are hungry; put wax worms, crickets, or small minnows under a bobber near bedding areas in shallow water.
FISH: Catfish ... Slow; Lower Skip jack in the deeper holes and put it just off the banks; some 8 to 10 pounders being caught, but no monsters. Some also fishing with stink bait and night crawlers.
FISH: Carp ... Fair to Good; Look for them in the shallower warmer water areas with night crawlers.
NOTE: Bluff City Tackle at Alton has everything you need for a successful fishing trip. Go see Butch at Bluff City Tackle in Alton for current fishing information. He is very friendly and helpful.
FISHING AREA: Lower Mississippi River - Wood River Area
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels are high; the bait shop is busy with lots of angling activity; everything biting.
FISH: Crappie ... Good; Minnows continue to be the bait of choice.
FISH: Bluegill ... Good; Crickets are the ticket; large sized fish up to 5 inches are being reeled in from the shallows.
FISH: Bass ... Fair to Good; Both spinners and crankbaits in various colors are producing from shallower water; soft plastics in black with hot pink curley tail have also been requested.
FISH: Catfish ... Good; 30 to 60 pounders are biting on herring, shad, and some on stink bait; the Alton pool holes are great; action is good in area farm ponds too.
NOTE: Reported by Dawn at Mallory Sports in Wood River; she's great to work with.
FISHING AREA: Lower Mississippi River - Belleville Area
NOTE: No fishing report available again this week.
NOTE: Poppy's Bait & Tackle in Belleville is a great place to go for your fishing supply needs. Nancy is very helpful with fishing information.
FISHING AREA: Lower Mississippi River - Anna/Jonesboro Area
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels are up a little, again, from recent rainfall received this past week; fishing continues to be good.
FISH: Crappie ... Fair to Good; Look for fish close to the shorelines with minnows or jigs tipped with a minnow; lakes and area ponds continue to produce.
FISH: Bluegill ... Good; Lots of crickets sold this past week; nice sized fish are biting on crickets and wax worms. Look for them in the shallows.
FISH: Redear ... Good; Red wigglers are getting bites near the bottom of shallower water.
FISH: Bass ... Good; Spinners are producing this week for the anglers.
FISH: Catfish ... Fair to Good; Warmer water temperatures have increased angling success; night crawlers are working in deeper water.
NOTE: The Mississippi River is on the top ten best fishing list for pan fish in Illinois. The 6,990 acre Williamson County Lake has lots of crappie.
NOTE: Three of the fishing lakes at the World Shooting and Recreational Complex in Randolph County are open. The lakes open are the 21 acre Derby Lake; stocked with 4,000 rainbow trout and also has 10 inch length range crappie,(electric trolling motors only) ; the 134 acre East Lake has an excellent largemouth bass and crappie population (a gasoline motor 10 horse power limit or electric trolling motors), and the 15 acre RV Lake has nice bluegill (no boat ramp and electric motors only allowed). For more information call 618/295-2700.
NOTE: Reported by Trail of Tears Junction at Anna-Jonesboro. The bait shop for that area. Check them out for needed tackle box supplies and bait during Free Fishing Days June 6th - 9th.
WATER CONDITIONS: Download the Mississippi River fishing guides and navigation charts to locate special fishing areas.
Click on the hyperlinks below to see more info on water levels:
(Illinois Department of Natural Resources Water Levels...realtime...
http://il.water.usgs.gov/nwis-w/IL/datasum.components/owrtable.cgi
(St.Louis Corps District Water Levels)..........................
http://mvs-wc.mvs.usace.army.mil/
(Rock Island Corps District Water Levels)...realtime............
water_mvr_usace_army.htm
(USGS Water Levels)...realtime..................................
USGS water conditions.htm
FISHING AREA: Upper Mississippi River-Pool 12 -
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels in the river system continue to remain high; levels continue to slowly fall in most pools. Rainfall was received throughout the entire water shed this past week.
FISHING AREA: Upper Mississippi River-Pool 13 - Savanna Area
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels are at 13.53 feet; lots of crappie being caught; Milo Pond is producing.
FISH: Crappie ... Good; Lots of minnows are being gobbled up in area ponds and lakes; look for fish up close to the shorelines.
FISH: Striped Bass ... Good; Fish are biting on leeches; anglers putting bait under a bobber at Milo Pond.
FISH: Catfish ... Good; Lots of night crawlers selling; stink bait is also being used in quiet water out of the current.
FISH: Perch ... Good; Fishermen are successful with worms.
NOTE: Debbie at Milo and Beavers in Savanna is very friendly and helpful with current fishing information.
BEST FISHING AREA: Mississippi River-Pool 14-15 - East Moline
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels are pretty high; lots of activity.
FISH: Crappie ... Good; Area strip pits and farm ponds are producing with jigs tipped with a minnow.
FISH: Bluegill ... Good; Some have spawned, others will soon; offer wax worms under a bobber in the shallows of area ponds and strip pits.
FISH: Largemouth Bass ... Fair; Smaller sized fish are hitting on jigs and minnows in fairly shallow water.
FISH: Smallmouth Bass ... Good; Sylvan slough is producing with jigs. Catch and release.
FISH: Striped Bass ... Fair to Good; A few larger sized fish are biting on a jig and minnow in fairly close.
FISH: Catfish ...Fair to Good; Shad, shrimp and leeches are producing in fairly shallow water.
FISH: Perch & Drum... Good; Anglers are successful by the dam with worms and minnows.
NOTE: Lake Storey is also an awesome Muskie Lake with documented catches of longer than 50 inches.
NOTE: Reported by Dave at Booze and Bait in East Moline. Check out their fishing supplies soon and keep your tackle boxes stocked.
FISHING AREA: Mississippi River -Pool 14 -15 - Rock Island Area
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels have dropped to one foot above normal; stable levels are needed for improved fishing success.
FISH: Crappie ... Good; Nice sized fish are being caught from the Marina, Lake George, and area ponds with small minnows.
FISH: Bluegill ... Very Good; Fish are aggressive and are being caught at the Marina, Lake George, and from area ponds with wax worms under a bobber.
FISH: Striped Bass ... Good; Sylvan Slough is producing with jigs and twister tails; chartruese sparkle or white colors are popular in deeper water.
FISH: Walleye ... Fair; Decent sized fish are biting on leeches. Fish are huddling up in the deep water holes as water levels fluctuate.
FISH: Sauger ... Slow; Anglers are having the best luck in deep water.
FISH: Catfish ... Decent; Look for them off the bridges or dam in fairly shallow water with shad or shad guts.
NOTE: Croegaerts Great Outdoors at Rock Island has needed fishing supplies for your tackle box.
FISHING AREA: Mississippi River -Pool 18 - Gladstone Area
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels are dropping, but are still above flood stage; Very few are fishing due to the high water levels; the boat ramps remain closed. Lots of fishing activity at area lakes.
FISH: Crappie ... Fair; Pre spawn conditions; Anglers are catching black males with minnows from shallow water; females have eggs.
FISH: Bluegill ... Good; Anglers are catching a few, mainly in farm ponds and area lakes from shallower water.
FISH: Catfish ... Fair to Good; Night crawlers are producing in quiet backwater areas.
NOTE: Reported by Dry Dock at Gladstone. They have the fishing supplies and bait and super friendly service.
FISHING AREA: Mississippi River -Pool 21 - Quincy Area
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels are dropping this week.
FISH: Crappie ... Good; Look for fish in the warmer spots; they are close to spawning.
FISH: Striped Bass ... Fair to Good; Look for fish with lures near at the dam.
FISH: Bluegill ... Fair; Fish are on beds; put wax worms under a bobber near the bedding areas.
FISH: Channel Catfish ... Very Good; Trot lines are producing 3 to 6 pounders; Anglers are catching fish from shallow water on a rod and reel with chicken livers, stink bait and night crawlers.
NOTE: Wiemelts Bait shop in Quincy has fishing supplies and are selling fishing license.
FISHING AREA: Mississippi River - Lock & Dam 21
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels are dropping; stable levels needed for increased fishing success
FISH: Crappie ... Good; Some fish have completed the spawn; some have eggs; look for them in the warmer water spots with jigs and minnows.
FISH: Bluegill ... Fair; Fish are on beds in local lakes and farm ponds and area quarries; toss them a wax worm.
FISH: Striped Bass ... Fair to Good; Cast lures near the dam.
FISH: Catfish ... Real Good; Pre spawn conditions; females have eggs; trot lines are producing 3 to 6 pound fish baited with chicken livers, stink bait, or night crawlers; fishermen are also using rod and reels in the shallows.
NOTE: Merkels in Quincy has friendly service and fishing supplies.
FISHING AREA: Mississippi River - Pool 26 - 25
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels are below flood stage; levels are fluctuating up and down. 2 to 4 inches of rainfall received this past week.
FISH: Crappie ... Good; Anglers are successful bank fishing with yellow and white tube jigs maybe tipped with a minnow. Water levels need to stabilize for better results.
FISH: Bluegill ... Good; Ponds are good, bank fishing is also improving; Fish are biting on red wigglers and Wax worm under a bobber in the shallower water.
FISH: Catfish ... Good; Bank fishermen are reeling them in using yellow or white and chartreuse jigs and night crawlers.
FISH: Perch ... Good; Lots of fish biting on night crawlers.
NOTE: Reported by Flood Field: See them for fishing supplies, fresh bait, and helpful information.
FISHING AREA: Mississippi River - Upper Pool 25 - Lower Pool 26 - Grafton Area
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels are slowly dropping; levels are up one foot from recent rainfall to above flood again. Lots of worms selling.
FISH: Catfish ... Fair to Good; The fall in the water level has slowed down angling success, but fish are biting on Sonny's stink bait and night crawlers in the slougs, along shorelines, and creeks.
FISH: Bluegill ... Good; Crickets are the tickets; fish are starting on beds.
NOTE: Cassens Bait Shop at Grafton has fresh bait and needed fishing supplies. He supplies bait to shops over a wide area.
FISHING AREA: Mississippi River - Lower Pool 26 - Alton
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels are fast and muddy.
FISH: Crappie ... Fair; A few fish are being taken from the shallows with jigs and minnows.
FISH: Bluegill ... Good; Fish are hungry; put wax worms, meal worms, or red wigglers under a bobber over spawning beds.
FISH: Catfish ... Slow; Skip jack and shad are producing from the deeper holes.
FISH: Carp ... Fair to Good; Look for them in the shallower warmer water areas with night crawlers.
NOTE: Bluff City Tackle at Alton has everything you need for a successful fishing trip. Go see Butch at Bluff City Tackle in Alton for current fishing information. He is very friendly and helpful.
FISHING AREA: Lower Mississippi River - Wood River Area
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels have dropped; the bait shop is busy; lots of fishermen; everything biting.
FISH: Crappie ... Good; Spawning conditions or completing the spawn; minnows are selling.
FISH: Bluegill ... Good; Fish on beds; thousands of crickets being used by anglers in area lakes and ponds; wax worms and hair jigs in every color, and rooster tails are also working for the anglers.
FISH: Bass ... Fair to Good; Nice sized fish are biting on minnows and night crawlers in the coves; find them and the fishing is great.
FISH: Catfish ... Good; Night crawlers and Stink bait continue to successful in quiet water; also look for deep holes with clusters of fish.
FISH: Carp ... Good; Anglers are successful in the sloughs and shallow water.
NOTE: Reported by Dawn at Mallory Sports in Wood River; she's great to work with.
FISHING AREA: Lower Mississippi River - Belleville Area
NOTE: No fishing report available this week.
NOTE: Poppy's Bait & Tackle in Belleville is a great place to go for your fishing supply needs. Nancy is very helpful with fishing information.
FISHING AREA: Lower Mississippi River - Anna/Jonesboro Area
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels are up from 4 to 5 inches of rainfall received this past week; fishing is good.
FISH: Crappie ... Good; Look for fish close to the shorelines with minnows or jigs tipped with a minnow; lakes and area ponds continue to produce.
FISH: Bluegill ... Good; Nice sized fish are biting on crickets and wax worms. Look for them in the shallows, 3 to 4 feet away from the bank.
FISH: Redear ... Good; Red wigglers are getting bites near the bottom of shallower water.
FISH: Bass ... Good; Look for fish 12 to 16 inches deep with super shad and neon yellow flukes.
FISH: Catfish ... Fair; A few fish are being caught with shad.
NOTE: The Mississippi River is on the top ten best fishing list for pan fish in Illinois. The 6,990 acre Williamson County Lake has lots of crappie.
NOTE: Three of the fishing lakes at the World Shooting and Recreational Complex in Randolph County are open. The lakes open are the 21 acre Derby Lake; stocked with 4,000 rainbow trout and also has 10 inch length range crappie,(electric trolling motors only) ; the 134 acre East Lake has an excellent largemouth bass and crappie population (a gasoline motor 10 horse power limit or electric trolling motors), and the 15 acre RV Lake has nice bluegill (no boat ramp and electric motors only allowed). For more information call 618/295-2700.
NOTE: Reported by Trail of Tears Junction at Anna-Jonesboro. The bait shop for that area. Check them out for needed tackle box supplies and bait.
WATER CONDITIONS: Download the Mississippi River fishing guides and navigation charts to locate special fishing areas.
Click on the hyperlinks below to see more info on water levels:
(Illinois Department of Natural Resources Water Levels...realtime...
http://il.water.usgs.gov/nwis-w/IL/datasum.components/owrtable.cgi
(St.Louis Corps District Water Levels)..........................
http://mvs-wc.mvs.usace.army.mil/
(Rock Island Corps District Water Levels)...realtime............
water_mvr_usace_army.htm
(USGS Water Levels)...realtime..................................
USGS water conditions.htm
FISHING AREA: Upper Mississippi River-Pool 12 -
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels in the river system continue to remain high; levels are slowly falling in most pools.
FISHING AREA: Upper Mississippi River-Pool 13 - Savanna Area
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels are dropping; be careful when on the river and watch for floating debris. More bait is selling than last week.
FISH: Crappie ... Good; Lots of minnows being sold; Anglers continue to get bites with minnows and jigs in area ponds and lakes.
FISH: Striped Bass ... Good; Fish are biting on leeches.
FISH: Catfish ... Good; Lots of night crawlers selling; stink bait is also being used in quiet water out of the current.
FISH: Perch ... Good; Fishermen are successful with worms.
NOTE: Debbie at Milo and Beavers in Savanna is very friendly and helpful with current fishing information.
BEST FISHING AREA: Mississippi River-Pool 14-15 - East Moline
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels are up.
FISH: Crappie ... Good; Lake Storey, area strip pits, lakes and ponds are producing with minnows.
FISH: Bluegill ... Good; Put wax worms under a bobber in the shallows of Lake Storey, area lakes, ponds and strip pits.
FISH: White Bass ... Good; Look for them by the dam with mini jigs in chartreuse or black colors.
FISH: Catfish ...Fair to Good; Larger sizes of fish are being taken with shrimp and cut shad from the mud flats in the Mississippi and smaller sizes on worms.
FISH: Perch ... Good; Anglers are successful by the dam; toss them a worm.
NOTE: Lake Storey is also an awesome Muskie Lake with documented catches of longer than 50 inches.
NOTE: Reported by Dave at Booze and Bait in East Moline. Check out their fishing supplies soon and keep your tackle boxes stocked.
FISHING AREA: Mississippi River -Pool 14 -15 - Rock Island Area
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels are falling below flood, but still above normal; fishing is good in the backwater areas. Nice weather in the forecast.
FISH: Crappie ... Very Good; Big ones are being taken from Lake George and area ponds.
FISH: Bluegill ... Very Good; Nice big ones are being caught at Lake George and from area ponds.
FISH: Striped Bass ... Good; Sylvan Slough and behind the arsonal is a good place to look for them with jigs and twister tails tipped with a minnow; chartruese or white colors best this week.
FISH: Walleye ... Fair to Good; Decent sized fish are being taken with leeches.
FISH: Catfish ... Slower; Look for them up close with leeches; the backwaters and near the Milan Bridge are good.
NOTE: Croegaerts Great Outdoors at Rock Island has needed fishing supplies for your tackle box.
FISHING AREA: Mississippi River -Pool 18 - Gladstone Area
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels have dropped some, but are still above flood stage; Very few are fishing due to the high water levels.
FISH: Crappie ... Fair; Pre spawn conditions; minnows are producing in local farm ponds.
FISH: Bluegill ... Good; Anglers are catching a few, mainly in farm ponds and area lakes.
FISH: Catfish ... Fair; Some night crawlers are still being sold; look for quiet water areas.
NOTE: Reported by Dry Dock at Gladstone. They have the fishing supplies and bait and super friendly service. Big mushrooms have been found this season.
FISHING AREA: Mississippi River -Pool 21 - Quincy Area
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels are slowly dropping. Anglers continue to have a ball bow fishing.
FISH: Crappie ... Good; Pre spawn conditions; some females with big eggs, depending on the water temperatures; area ponds are producing for anglers using small crawdads.
FISH: Bass ... Fair to Good; Minnows and lures are producing in 5 feet deep water or shallower.
FISH: Bluegill ... Good; wax worms are producing from the shallows.
FISH: Channel Catfish ... Very Good; Anglers are using night crawlers and some minnows, along the shallows of the bay area. Trot lines are also working.
FISH: Carp ... Good; Anglers are just waiting for the spawn; Lots of Bow fishing activity in the sloughs and backwater.
NOTE: Wiemelts Bait shop in Quincy has fishing supplies and are selling fishing license. Enjoy the holiday weekend.
FISHING AREA: Mississippi River - Lock & Dam 21
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels are slowly dropping; Plan to visit your favorite fishing hole during the Memorial Day Holiday weekend
FISH: Crappie ... Good; Fish area lakes and ponds with jigs and minnows; colors of jigs vary with the water conditions.
FISH: Bass ... Fair to Good; Pre spawn conditions; Anglers are using a variety of baits; crankbaits, jigs, plastic worms, and some artificial baits in local lakes and farm ponds.
FISH: Carp ... Good; Bow fishermen are having a good time in the backwater areas.
NOTE: Merkels in Quincy has friendly service and fishing supplies.
FISHING AREA: Mississippi River - Pool 26 - 25
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels are at flood stage; flooding is moderate; levels are dropping some. Fish are there, fishermen must find them.
FISH: Crappie ... Good; Anglers are successful at Pittsfield Lake and area farm ponds with yellow and white tube jigs maybe tipped with a minnow.
FISH: Bluegill ... Good; Ponds are good; Fish are biting on Wax worm under a bobber in the shallower water.
FISH: Catfish ... Good; Trot lines are producing both channel catfish and flatheads; fishermen are having great success baiting them with night crawlers and worms; fish deep.
NOTE: Reported by Flood Field: See them for fishing supplies and fresh bait. Have a fun Memorial Day Holiday weekend.
FISHING AREA: Mississippi River - Upper Pool 25 - Lower Pool 26 - Grafton Area
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels are slowly dropping; levels continue to be above flood stage; angling activity continues to be slower in this area due to the high water.
FISH: Catfish ... Good; Anglers are finding fish in the warmer backwater areas, sloughs and creeks with worms.
NOTE: Cassens Bait Shop at Grafton has fresh bait and needed fishing supplies. He supplies bait to shops over a wide area.
FISHING AREA: Mississippi River - Lower Pool 26 - Alton
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels are high but slowly falling. Nice weather temperatures are in the forecast for the holiday weekend. Enjoy them.
FISH: Crappie ... Good; Otter Lake is producing from the shallows.
FISH: Bluegill ... Very Good; Fish are hitting everywhere! Interested in making beds. Put wax worms, meal worms, or red wigglers under a bobber.
FISH: Catfish ... Good; Look for them in the backwaters, oxbows, and sloughs.
FISH: Carp ... Very Good; Bow fishing is providing lots of fun and big fish are being taken.
NOTE: Bluff City Tackle at Alton has everything you need for a successful fishing trip. Go see Robert at Bluff City Tackle in Alton for current fishing information. He is very friendly and helpful.
FISHING AREA: Lower Mississippi River - Wood River Area
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels are high; bait is selling at the bait shop; lots of fishermen.
FISH: Crappie ... Good; Spawning conditions or completing the spawn; minnows are selling left and right.
FISH: Bluegill ... Good; Fish on beds; Crickets galore are selling!! producing under a bobber especially in area lakes and ponds; wax worms also working for the anglers.
FISH: Bass ... Fair to Good; Fish are biting on minnows and night crawlers.
FISH: Catfish ... Good; Shad and Stink bait continue to successful in the backwater areas especially out of the current in quiet water.
FISH: Carp ... Great; Lots of Bow fishing; Anglers are very successful bow fishing in the sloughs and flooded fields. Big fish being taken.
NOTE: Reported by Dawn at Mallory Sports in Wood River; she's great to work with.
FISHING AREA: Lower Mississippi River - Belleville Area
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels are slowly falling. Plan a family fishing trip during the Memorial Day Holiday weekend.
FISH: Crappie ... Good; Fish are biting everywhere on jigs and/or minnows in shallower water.
FISH: Bluegill ... Good; Fish are bedding and biting on crickets and wax worms, meal worms and red wigglers.
FISH: Bass ... Good: Nice big sizes of fish are being taken with spinners and plastic worms fairly close from stip pits. Two 8 pounders were reported this past week.
FISH: Catfish ... Good; Look for quiet waters of sloughs, oxbows, and shorelines out of the current with night crawlers.
FISH: Carp ... Great; Bow fishing is producing countless hours of fantastic fun.
NOTE: Poppy's Bait & Tackle in Belleville is a great place to go for your fishing supply needs. Nancy is very helpful with fishing information.
FISHING AREA: Lower Mississippi River - Anna/Jonesboro Area
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels are fairly steady, but still high; Anglers continue to buy lots of bait. Good fishing weekend coming up. Don't miss out!
FISH: Crappie ... Good; Look for fish close to the shorelines with minnows or jigs tipped with a minnow; lakes and area ponds continue to produce.
FISH: Bluegill ... Good; Fish are hungry for crickets and wax worms. Look for them on beds.
FISH: Redear ... Good; Red wigglers are working near the bottom of shallower water.
FISH: Bass ... Good; Anglers are successful with night crawlers near the edges. Some fish have spawned, others are close.
FISH: Catfish ... Good; Anglers are fishing with night crawlers, chicken livers, and cut bait.
NOTE: The Mississippi River is on the top ten best fishing list for pan fish in Illinois. The 6,990 acre Williamson County Lake has lots of crappie.
NOTE: Three of the fishing lakes at the World Shooting and Recreational Complex in Randolph County are open. The lakes open are the 21 acre Derby Lake; stocked with 4,000 rainbow trout and also has 10 inch length range crappie,(electric trolling motors only) ; the 134 acre East Lake has an excellent largemouth bass and crappie population (a gasoline motor 10 horse power limit or electric trolling motors), and the 15 acre RV Lake has nice bluegill (no boat ramp and electric motors only allowed). For more information call 618/295-2700.
NOTE: Reported by Trail of Tears Junction at Anna-Jonesboro. The bait shop for that area. Check them out for needed tackle box supplies.
WATER CONDITIONS: Download the Mississippi River fishing guides and navigation charts to locate special fishing areas.
Click on the hyperlinks below to see more info on water levels:
(Illinois Department of Natural Resources Water Levels...realtime...
http://il.water.usgs.gov/nwis-w/IL/datasum.components/owrtable.cgi
(St.Louis Corps District Water Levels)..........................
http://mvs-wc.mvs.usace.army.mil/
(Rock Island Corps District Water Levels)...realtime............
water_mvr_usace_army.htm
(USGS Water Levels)...realtime..................................
USGS water conditions.htm
FISHING AREA: Upper Mississippi River-Pool 12 -
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels in the river system continue to remain high; levels are slowly falling in some pools.
FISHING AREA: Upper Mississippi River-Pool 13 - Savanna Area
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels are falling, fish are moving as the water drops; anglers must search for them.
FISH: Crappie ... Fair to Good; Anglers continue to get bites with minnows in area ponds and lakes.
FISH: Catfish ... Fair to Good; Night crawlers are producing in the creeks; best when out of the current.
NOTE: Debbie at Milo and Beavers in Savanna is very friendly and helpful with current fishing information.
BEST FISHING AREA: Mississippi River-Pool 14-15 - East Moline
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels are high with area drainages out of their banks. The current is strong; fish the sheltered areas and along shorelines.
FISH: Crappie ... Fair to Good; Best in area strip pits, lakes and ponds with minnows. Look near brush piles in the river if they are not already washed down stream.
FISH: Bluegill ... Fair to Good; Anglers are successful in area lakes, ponds and strip pits; put a wax worms under a bobber in the shallows.
FISH: Stripers ... Fair to Good; Anglers using medium sized twister tails, jigs and minnow in area strip pits.
FISH: Catfish ...Fair; Look for them along mud flats in the Mississippi with shrimp and shad guts.
NOTE: Lake Storey is also an awesome Muskie Lake with documented catches of longer than 50 inches.
NOTE: Reported by Dave at Booze and Bait in East Moline. Check out their fishing supplies soon and keep your tackle boxes stocked.
FISHING AREA: Mississippi River -Pool 14 -15 - Rock Island Area
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels are up and down; water is in the banks - to one foot over flood; fishing is good in the backwater areas.
FISH: Crappie ... Good; Big ones are being taken from Lake George; area ponds continue to produce with minnows.
FISH: Bluegill ... Good; Nice big ones are being reeled in at Lake George.
FISH: Bass ... Good; Spring Lake is producing large sized bass.
FISH: Walleye ... Fair to Good; A few decent sized fish are being taken this past week.
FISH: Catfish ... Fair to Good; Look for them in the Rock River near the Milan Bridge; flatheads and channels are being caught with shad guts.
NOTE: Croegaerts Great Outdoors at Rock Island has needed fishing supplies for your tackle box.
FISHING AREA: Mississippi River -Pool 18 - Gladstone Area
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels are near 17 feet; the levee continues to be monitored and closely watched in this area; Very few are fishing due to the high water levels.
FISH: Crappie ... Fair; Pre spawn conditions; minnows are producing in local farm ponds.
FISH: Bluegill ... Good; Anglers are catching a few, mainly in farm ponds and area lakes.
FISH: Catfish ... Fair; Night crawlers are being used this week.
NOTE: Reported by Dry Dock at Gladstone. They have the fishing supplies and bait and super friendly service.
FISHING AREA: Mississippi River -Pool 21 - Quincy Area
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels are high and up. Rainfall received again this past week. Anglers are having a blast bow fishing.
FISH: Crappie ... Fair to Good; Pre spawn conditions; females with big eggs; chilly weather has set back their progress a little; area ponds and lakes are producing and a few from the river being taken.
FISH: Bluegill ... Fair to Good; wax worms are producing from the shallows.
FISH: Catfish ... Fair to Good; Cut bait is working; best fishing is behind the locks.
FISH: Carp ... Good; Pre spawn conditions; Anglers are just waiting for the spawn; Lots of Bow fishing activity and lots of gigs being sold.
NOTE: Wiemelts Bait shop in Quincy has fishing supplies and are selling fishing license. Mushrooms being found in this area.
FISHING AREA: Mississippi River - Lock & Dam 21
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels are dropping; not much angling activity due to the chilly wet weather this past week
FISH: Crappie ... Slow; Fish area lakes and ponds with jigs and minnows; colors of jigs vary with the water conditions.
FISH: Bass ... Slow; Pre spawn conditions; Anglers are using a variety of baits; crankbaits, jigs, plastic worms, and some artificial baits in local lakes and farm ponds.
NOTE: Merkels in Quincy has friendly service and fishing supplies.
FISHING AREA: Mississippi River - Pool 26 - 25
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels are high, but dropping some. Fishing is good in area ponds.
FISH: Crappie ... Good; Anglers are successful at Pittsfield Lake and area farm ponds with yellow and white tube jigs and pink jig heads with a minnow.
FISH: Bluegill ... Good; Fish are biting on Wax worm under a bobber in shallower water of area ponds and Pittsfield Lake.
FISH: Catfish ... Good; Due to the high water; fishermen are fishing for them where they can get to them and using Neon night crawlers and regular night crawlers; Trot lines are also popular and being baited with night crawlers.
NOTE: Reported by Flood Field: See them for fishing supplies and fresh bait.
FISHING AREA: Mississippi River - Upper Pool 25 - Lower Pool 26 - Grafton Area
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels have dropped 8 inches but more rainfall has been received again this week; levels continue to be above flood stage; Slow angling activity in this area due to the high water and chilly weather temperatures.
FISH: Catfish ... Good; Anglers are successful in the warmer backwater areas, sloughs and creeks with worms.
NOTE: Cassens Bait Shop at Grafton has fresh bait and needed fishing supplies. He supplies bait to shops over a wide area.
FISHING AREA: Mississippi River - Lower Pool 26 - Alton
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels remain high.
NOTE: No fishing report available this week.
NOTE: Bluff City Tackle at Alton has everything you need for a successful fishing trip. Go see Robert at Bluff City Tackle in Alton for current fishing information. He is very friendly and helpful.
FISHING AREA: Lower Mississippi River - Wood River Area
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels are high; creeks and ponds are up from recent rainfall; all kinds of bait is selling at the bait shop.
FISH: Crappie ... Fair to Good; Pre spawn conditions; females have big eggs; just a little warmer water temperatures needed for the spawn.
FISH: Bluegill ... Fair to Good; Pre spawn conditions; Crickets are producing under a bobber especially in area lakes and ponds; some interested in building nests.
FISH: Catfish ... Good; Shad and Stink bait are working in the backwater areas especially out of the current in quiet water.
FISH: Carp ... Great; Bow fishing - the biggest thing going!! Anglers are very successful bow fishing in the sloughs and flooded fields. Big fish being taken.
NOTE: Reported by Dawn at Mallory Sports in Wood River; she's great to work with.
FISHING AREA: Lower Mississippi River - Belleville Area
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels continue to be high; more rainfall was received this past week.
FISH: Crappie ... Fair to good; Area lakes are producing fish with jigs and/or minnows in shallower water levels.
FISH: Bluegill ... Fair to Good; Crickets and wax worms, meal worms and red wigglers are producing in area lakes and ponds; fish are interested in making beds.
FISH: Bass ... Fair to Good: Fish are being taken with spinners and plastic worms.
FISH: Catfish ... Good; Pretty good results in quiet water out of the current with night crawlers; also look for them in sloughs, creeks, and along shorelines.
NOTE: Poppy's Bait & Tackle in Belleville is a great place to go for your fishing supply needs. Nancy is very helpful with fishing information.
FISHING AREA: Lower Mississippi River - Anna/Jonesboro Area
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels are slowly dropping and getting better; Anglers are buying lots of bait.
FISH: Crappie ... Good; Look for fish close to the shorelines with minnows; lakes and area ponds continue to produce the best.
FISH: Bluegill ... Good; Fish are biting on crickets and wax worms close to the shoreline; some interested in building nests.
FISH: Redear ... Good; Red wigglers are working if presented quietly near the bottom of shallower depths.
FISH: Bass ... Fair to Good; Anglers are successful with night crawlers near the edge. Some fish have spawned, others should spawn soon if the weather cooperates.
FISH: Paddlefish ... Fair to Good; A fisherman brought a nice sized paddlefish to the bait shop to be weighed this past week.
FISH: Catfish ... Good; Anglers are fishing with night crawlers, chicken livers, and cut bait.
NOTE: The Mississippi River is on the top ten best fishing list for pan fish in Illinois. The 6,990 acre Williamson County Lake has lots of crappie.
NOTE: Three of the fishing lakes at the World Shooting and Recreational Complex in Randolph County are open. The lakes open are the 21 acre Derby Lake; stocked with 4,000 rainbow trout and also has 10 inch length range crappie,(electric trolling motors only) ; the 134 acre East Lake has an excellent largemouth bass and crappie population (a gasoline motor 10 horse power limit or electric trolling motors), and the 15 acre RV Lake has nice bluegill (no boat ramp and electric motors only allowed). For more information call 618/295-2700.
NOTE: Reported by Trail of Tears Junction at Anna-Jonesboro. The bait shop for that area. Check them out for needed tackle box supplies.
WATER CONDITIONS: Download the Mississippi River fishing guides and navigation charts to locate special fishing areas.
Click on the hyperlinks below to see more info on water levels:
(Illinois Department of Natural Resources Water Levels...realtime...
http://il.water.usgs.gov/nwis-w/IL/datasum.components/owrtable.cgi
(St.Louis Corps District Water Levels)..........................
http://mvs-wc.mvs.usace.army.mil/
(Rock Island Corps District Water Levels)...realtime............
water_mvr_usace_army.htm
(USGS Water Levels)...realtime..................................
USGS water conditions.htm
FISHING AREA: Upper Mississippi River-Pool 12 -
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels in the river system continue to remain high; levels are starting to drop in some pools.
NOTE: The fifth season spring turkey hunting is Thursday May 8st thru Thursday May 15th for the northern zone.
FISHING AREA: Upper Mississippi River-Pool 13 - Savanna Area
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels are high, but dropping some; normal pool is 11.0 feet; Lots of fishing activity especially on area ponds, lakes and creeks.
FISH: Crappie ... Fair to Good; Minnows are producing in area ponds and lakes.
FISH: Catfish ... Fair to Good; Anglers are using night crawlers in the creeks out of the current.
NOTE: Debbie at Milo and Beavers in Savanna is very friendly and helpful with current fishing information.
BEST FISHING AREA: Mississippi River-Pool 14-15 - East Moline
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels are high but dropping.
FISH: Crappie ... Fair to Good; Lakes and ponds are producing with minnows.
FISH: Bluegill ... Fair to Good; Anglers are successful in area lakes and ponds with wax worms under a bobber.
FISH: Smallmouth Bass ... Fair to Good; Strip pits are producing for the fishermen.
FISH: Stripers ... Fair to Good; A few are being taken with a twister tail tipped with a minnow from area strip pits.
FISH: Catfish ...Slow; Very few were being caught this past week.
NOTE: Lake Storey is also an awesome Muskie Lake with documented catches of longer than 50 inches.
NOTE: Reported by Dave at Booze and Bait in East Moline. Check out their fishing supplies soon. Keep your tackle boxes stocked; be ready to fish.
FISHING AREA: Mississippi River -Pool 14 -15 - Rock Island Area
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels are high but dropping; boat ramps are covered; fishing is good.
FISH: Crappie ... Fair to Good; Area ponds are producing with temperatures in the mid 50's.
FISH: Bass ... Good; Angling success is good with spinners to the north of Rock Island in the Savana Pool.
FISH: Catfish ... Fair to Good; Look for them in the Rock River at the Milan Bridge; flatheads and channels are being caught with shad guts.
NOTE: Croegaerts Great Outdoors at Rock Island has needed fishing supplies for your tackle box.
FISHING AREA: Mississippi River -Pool 18 - Gladstone Area
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels have dropped a little, but continue to be high; the levee is being monitored and closely watched in this area; Very few are fishing due to the high water levels.
FISH: Crappie ... Fair; Jigs or minnows are getting bites for the anglers in local farm ponds.
FISH: Bluegill ... Good; Anglers are catching a few, mainly in farm ponds and area lakes.
FISH: Bass ... Fair; Anglers are catching a few, while trolling and casting area lakes and ponds with spinners and crankbaits.
NOTE: Reported by Dry Dock at Gladstone. They have the fishing supplies and bait and super friendly service.
FISHING AREA: Mississippi River -Pool 21 - Quincy Area
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels are high, but dropping some. Lots of angling activity especially in area creeks, ponds and lakes. Rainfall received this past week.
FISH: Crappie ... Fair to Good; Bigger sizes are being caught in area ponds and lakes and a few from the river; fish have big eggs; pre spawn conditions.
FISH: Bluegill ... Fair to Good; wax worms are producing as temperatures warm.
FISH: Catfish ... Fair to Good; Cut bait is working; mostly behind the locks.
NOTE: Wiemelts Bait shop in Quincy has fishing supplies and are selling fishing license.
FISHING AREA: Mississippi River - Lock & Dam 21
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels are high and up
FISH: Crappie ... Very Good; Area lakes and ponds are producing with jigs and minnows; colors of jigs vary with the water conditions; fish are moving in as temperatures warm. Mark Twain Lake is producing 9 to 11 inch sized fish.
FISH: Bass ... Fair to Good; Pre spawn conditions; Anglers are success with a variety of baits; crankbaits, jigs, plastic worms, and some artificial baits in local lakes and farm ponds.
NOTE: Merkels in Quincy has friendly service and fishing supplies.
FISHING AREA: Mississippi River - Pool 26 - 25
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels are way high. Fishing is good in area ponds.
FISH: Crappie ... Good; Pittsfield Lake and area farm ponds are producing on tube jigs; pink jig head; yellow and white tube jigs.
FISH: Bluegill ... Good; Fish are biting on Wax worm under a bobber in shallower water of area ponds and Pittsfield Lake.
FISH: Catfish ... Good; Neon night crawler and night crawlers are working; Trot lines are popular and being baited with night crawlers.
NOTE: Reported by Flood Field: See them for fishing supplies.
FISHING AREA: Mississippi River - Upper Pool 25 - Lower Pool 26 - Grafton Area
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels are very high and the river is really wide. Slow angling activity in this area due to the high water. The backwater is touching his building, but not up in it yet.
NOTE: Tons of minnows are being sold by bait shops on his delivery route.
FISH: Catfish ... Good; Look for fish in the warmer backwater areas and creeks with worms.
NOTE: Cassens Bait Shop at Grafton has fresh bait and needed fishing supplies. He supplies bait to shops over a wide area.
FISHING AREA: Mississippi River - Lower Pool 26 - Alton
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels remain high.
NOTE: No fishing report available this week.
NOTE: Bluff City Tackle at Alton has everything you need for a successful fishing trip. Go see Robert at Bluff City Tackle in Alton for current fishing information. He is very friendly and helpful.
FISHING AREA: Lower Mississippi River - Wood River Area
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels are high, but dropping a little. Warmer temperatures are welcome; take mom fishing for Mothers Day.
FISH: Crappie ... Fair to Good; Pre spawn conditions;lots of minnows are being used by the anglers on area ponds and lakes. Weeds starting to grow.
FISH: Bluegill ... Fair to Good; Crickets are producing under a bobber.
FISH: Bass ... Fair; Anglers are using night crawlers and worms.
FISH: Paddlefish ... Fair; Snagging season ends May 15th.
FISH: Catfish ... Good; Shad and Stink bait are working in the backwater areas.
NOTE: Reported by Dawn at Mallory Sports in Wood River; she's great to work with.
FISHING AREA: Lower Mississippi River - Belleville Area
WATER CONDITIONS: Big water! Tons of bait selling!
FISH: Crappie ... Fair to good; Washington County Lake is a hot spot in this area this week; fish are being taken with jigs and/or minnows.
FISH: Bluegill ... Fair to Good; Crickets and wax worms are producing; meal worms and red wigglers also being sold; Washington Co. Lake good and Randolph Co. fair; fish starting to bed.
FISH: Bass ... Fair to Good: Fish are being taken with spinners and plastic worms.
FISH: Catfish ... Good; Pretty good results in still water out of the current with night crawlers.
NOTE: Poppy's Bait & Tackle in Belleville is a great place to go for your fishing supply needs. Nancy is very helpful with fishing information.
FISHING AREA: Lower Mississippi River - Anna/Jonesboro Area
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels are continue to slowly drop; Minnows, crickets and nigh crawlers are still in big demand.
FISH: Crappie ... Good; Look for fish close to the shorelines with minnows; lakes and area ponds producing best.
FISH: Bluegill ... Good; Crickets are getting hits real close to the shoreline; some babies swimming around in farm ponds and some starting to build nests.
FISH: Bass ... Fair to Good; Anglers are successful with night crawlers near the edges.
FISH: Catfish ... Good; Night crawlers are the bait of choice this week.
NOTE: The Mississippi River is on the top ten best fishing list for pan fish in Illinois. The 6,990 acre Williamson County Lake has lots of crappie.
NOTE: Three of the fishing lakes at the World Shooting and Recreational Complex in Randolph County are open. The lakes open are the 21 acre Derby Lake; stocked with 4,000 rainbow trout and also has 10 inch length range crappie,(electric trolling motors only) ; the 134 acre East Lake has an excellent largemouth bass and crappie population (a gasoline motor 10 horse power limit or electric trolling motors), and the 15 acre RV Lake has nice bluegill (no boat ramp and electric motors only allowed). For more information call 618/295-2700.
NOTE: Reported by Trail of Tears Junction at Anna-Jonesboro. The bait shop for that area. Check them out for needed tackle box supplies.
WATER CONDITIONS: Download the Mississippi River fishing guides and navigation charts to locate special fishing areas.
Click on the hyperlinks below to see more info on water levels:
(Illinois Department of Natural Resources Water Levels...realtime...
http://il.water.usgs.gov/nwis-w/IL/datasum.components/owrtable.cgi
(St.Louis Corps District Water Levels)..........................
http://mvs-wc.mvs.usace.army.mil/
(Rock Island Corps District Water Levels)...realtime............
water_mvr_usace_army.htm
(USGS Water Levels)...realtime..................................
USGS water conditions.htm
FISHING AREA: Upper Mississippi River-Pool 12 -
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels in the river system continue to remain high. Chilly weather along with frost and sleet slowed angling activity.
NOTE: The fourth season spring turkey hunting is Thursday May 1st thru Wednesday May 7th for the northern zone.
FISHING AREA: Upper Mississippi River-Pool 13 - Savanna Area
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels are up; really high and muddy; normal pool is 11.0 feet; Chilly weather temperatures again.
FISH: Crappie ... Fair to Good; Success is o.k. especially on days that the sun shines.
NOTE: Debbie at Milo and Beavers in Savanna is very friendly and helpful with current fishing information.
BEST FISHING AREA: Mississippi River-Pool 14-15 - East Moline
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels are high, muddy, chilly, with floating debris in the current. Local farm ponds and strip pits are producing.
FISH: Crappie ... Slow; Awful weather the first part of the week slowed angling success; should pick back up as temperatures warm up.
FISH: Bluegill ... Slow; Sleet and frost the first part of the week cooled angling activity.
FISH: Stripers ... Fair; A few are being taken with a twister tail tipped with a minnow.
NOTE: Lake Storey is also an awesome Muskie Lake with documented catches of longer than 50 inches.
NOTE: Reported by Dave at Booze and Bait in East Moline. Check out their fishing supplies soon. Keep your tackle boxes stocked; be ready to fish.
FISHING AREA: Mississippi River -Pool 14 -15 - Rock Island Area
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels are up; should crest this week, but more rain is in the forecast. Chilly weather has slowed angling activity a little. Pond fishing is good.
FISH: Crappie ... Fair to Good; Success is coming along; area ponds are producing.
FISH: Bass ... Fair to Good; Angling success is starting to take off with spinners and some being taken with crankbaits.
FISH: Walleye ... Fair to Good; Some fish being caught with eggs.
FISH: Catfish ... Fair to Good; Angling success was better before the high water levels.
FISH: Carp ... Great; Reports of fish biting everywhere in the backwater areas.
NOTE: Croegaerts Great Outdoors at Rock Island has needed fishing supplies for your tackle box.
FISHING AREA: Mississippi River -Pool 18 - Gladstone Area
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels are up to near 21 feet and raising with a swift current. Very few fishing due to the high water levels.
FISH: Crappie ... Slow to fair; Jigs or minnows are getting bites for the anglers in local farm ponds.
FISH: Bluegill ... Slow to Fair; Anglers are catching a few mainly in farm ponds and area lakes.
FISH: Bass ... Fair; Anglers are catching a few while trolling and casting area lakes and ponds with spinners and crankbaits.
FISH: Catfish ... Good; Look for them in the creeks and backwater areas with night crawlers, dip bait, and shad guts.
NOTE: Reported by Dry Dock at Gladstone. They have the fishing supplies and bait and super friendly service.
FISHING AREA: Mississippi River -Pool 21 - Quincy Area
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels are pretty high. Long Island Lake continues to be popular.
FISH: Crappie ... Fair; Anglers are successful using minnows in area ponds.
FISH: Walleye ... Slower; Fish are done spawning; continue to offer them large minnows.
FISH: Catfish ... Fair to Good; Offer them cut shad, shad guts or Sonny's stink bait; jug fish is also producing.
FISH: Carp ... Good; Look for them in the creeks and backwater shallows with minnows and shad guts.
NOTE: Wiemelts Bait shop in Quincy has fishing supplies and are selling fishing license.
FISHING AREA: Mississippi River - Lock & Dam 21
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels remain high and are raising; bow fishing in the backwater areas is popular
FISH: Crappie ... Slow to Spotty; Look for them in the river bottom backwater areas and drainage ditches. Mark Twain Lake is producing 9 to 11 inch sized fish.
FISH: Bass ... Fair to Good; Anglers are success with a variety of baits; crankbaits, jigs, plastic worms, and some artificial baits on local lakes and farm ponds.
FISh: Catfish ... Fair; Fish are following the carp in the backwaters areas and drainage ditches.
FISH: Carp ... Excellent; Bow fishing is very popular this week with very good results in the backwater areas as they feed in the shallows.
NOTE: Merkels in Quincy has friendly service and fishing supplies.
FISHING AREA: Mississippi River - Pool 26 - 25
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels continue to be high on the Mississippi; flood stage on the Illinois River. Fishing is good in area ponds.
FISH: Crappie ... Fair to Good; Area ponds are producing on minnows.
FISH: Bluegill ... Fair; Lower a Wax worm, meal worm, or minnow under a bobber in shallower water; area ponds best.
FISH: Catfish ... Great; Trot lines are being baited with night crawlers.
FISH: Carp & Buffalo; Good; Fishermen continue to have a good time bow fishing in the backwater.
NOTE: Reported by Flood Field: See them for fishing supplies.
FISHING AREA: Mississippi River - Upper Pool 25 - Lower Pool 26 - Grafton Area
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels are high and the river is really wide. Slow angling activity due to the water and weather conditions.
FISH: Crappie ... Fair; Some fish are being taken from the shallower warmer water with jigs in the backwater lake areas, sloughs, and local farm ponds.
FISH: Bluegill ... Fair to Good; Toss a cricket under a bobber in shallower depths near some cover.
FISH: Catfish ... Good; Look for fish in the warmer backwater areas and creeks, maybe following carp. Worms will work.
NOTE: Cassens Bait Shop at Grafton has fresh bait and needed fishing supplies.
FISHING AREA: Mississippi River - Lower Pool 26 - Alton
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels are high; chilly temperatures and sleet passed through the area this past week; go fishing, fish are cold and wet anyway.
FISH: Crappie ... Slow to Fair; Anglers are successful in sperts; best when the sun is shinning; look for them on bare banks in 6 to 8 feet of water.
FISH: Paddlefish ... Fair to Good; Anglers are successful snagging near the dam. Snagging season ends May 15th.
FISH: Catfish ... Fair to Good; A few are being taken by fishing from the banks; offer skip jack in deeper water.
NOTE: Bluff City Tackle at Alton has everything you need for a successful fishing trip. Go see Robert at Bluff City Tackle in Alton for current fishing information. He is very friendly and helpful.
FISHING AREA: Lower Mississippi River - Wood River Area
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels continue to be high. Bait shop is selling tons of bait; area ponds and lakes are clearing.
FISH: Crappie ... Fair to Good; All colors of hair jigs and lots of minnows are being used by the anglers this past week; area ponds and lakes are best.
FISH: Bluegill ... Fair to Good; Crickets are the ticket; a big demand for them.
FISH: Bass ... Fair; Anglers are using spinners and frog lures. It seems early for frogs, but the fish are hitting on them.
FISH: Paddlefish ... Fair; fishermen continue to snag; snagging season ends May 15th.
FISH: Catfish ... Good; Stink bait and cheese bait is working in the creeks and sloughs.
NOTE: Reported by Dawn at Mallory Sports in Wood River; it's great to have her back on the job.
FISHING AREA: Lower Mississippi River - Belleville Area
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels are very high and muddy with a swift current; more rainfall received in this area this past week.
FISH: Crappie ... Fair to good; Fish the clearer, calmer, warmer water of backwater sloughs, strip pits, area lakes and ponds; fish are being taken with jigs and/or minnows.
FISH: Bluegill ... Fair; Angling success is hit and miss; nice ones are being caught if you are in the right spot. Offer a wax worm or red wigglers in the warmer backwater areas or local ponds.
FISH: Bass ... Fair to Good: Fish are biting on spinners and plastic worms; an angler reported catching one with a beetle spin while fishing for crappie this past week.
FISH: Catfish ... Good; Pretty good results in still water out of the current.
NOTE: Poppy's Bait & Tackle in Belleville is a great place to go for your fishing supply needs. Nancy is very helpful with fishing information.
FISHING AREA: Lower Mississippi River - Anna/Jonesboro Area
WATER CONDITIONS: Water levels are high and continue to slowly drop; Gobs of bait selling! especially minnows and lots of crickets and worms.
FISH: Crappie ... Good; Fish are biting on minnows in 4 to 5 feet of water in backwater areas, strip pits, and local ponds.
FISH: Bluegill ... Good; Fish in 5 to 6 feet feet of water with crickets, red wigglers, meal worms, and wax worms. Fish from the banks or a boat.
FISH: Catfish ... Good; Fish the shallower water of creeks and slough areas with minnows and night crawlers; an angler reported catching 20 to 30 pounders, a 50 pounder and a 70 pounder this past week from the Mississippi near McClure. A successful fisherman also brought in a 35 pound fish to the bait shop this past week.
NOTE: The Mississippi River is on the top ten best fishing list for pan fish in Illinois. The 6,990 acre Williamson County Lake has lots of crappie.
NOTE: Three of the fishing lakes at the World Shooting and Recreational Complex in Randolph County are open. The lakes open are the 21 acre Derby Lake; stocked with 4,000 rainbow trout and also has 10 inch length range crappie,(electric trolling motors only) ; the 134 acre East Lake has an excellent largemouth bass and crappie population (a gasoline motor 10 horse power limit or electric trolling motors), and the 15 acre RV Lake has nice bluegill (no boat ramp and electric motors only allowed). For more information call 618/295-2700.
NOTE: Reported by Trail of Tears Junction at Anna-Jonesboro. The bait shop for that area. Check them out for needed tackle box supplies. Spring turkey fifth season hunting is May 1st thru May 8th in the southern zone. It's mushroom season in Southern Illinois!
WATER CONDITIONS: Download the Mississippi River fishing guides and navigation charts to locate special fishing areas.
Click on the hyperlinks below to see more info on water levels:
(Illinois Department of Natural Resources Water Levels...realtime...