Location: Pyramid State Park is located south of Pinckneyville in Perry County. Scaup Lake is located on the Galum Section of Pyramid State Park. The Galum Section is accessed off Panda Bear Road. From State Route 127 head west on Pyatt-Cutler Road. About 6 miles west of Pyramid State Park turn north onto Panda Bear Road.

Description: Scaup lake is a 30-acre strip mine lake located just north of Redhead Lake. There is no boat launch at this lake. The lake can be accessed on foot by following a short, steep trail from the road. Due to the relatively short walking distance to reach the lake, anglers with a kayak or canoe will likely find an opportunity to fish in seclusion.

History and Status of the Sport Fishery: The fish community in this lake has never been sampled due to the absence of a boat launch. Scaup Lake likely contains sport fishes present in other lakes within the park, including largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill, and redear. Walleye were stocked in Scaup Lake during most years from 2002 through 2020. However, Walleye stockings will no longer continue due the difficulty in accessing the lake. If a boat launch is ever built, sport fish stockings may be reinitiated.

Additional Lake Information: Site Regulations:
Largemouth bass: 5 fish under 14” and fish 1 over 18” limit, 14–18 inch protected slot (no possession)
Bluegill or redear sunfish: 25 fish daily limit
Crappie: 25 fish daily limit
Channel catfish: 6 fish daily limit

2 pole and line fishing only and bowfishing is allowed. All live bait in excess of 8" must be rigged with a quick set rig. Please note that fishing is prohibited from November 1 through February 28.

Maps of 23 lakes located on the Arch Portion of Pyramid State Park can be obtained via email by sending a request to Nicholas.Abell@illinois.gov

Contact Information:
Pyramid State Park
618-357-2574
Nick Abell - IDNR Fisheries Biologist
618-967-0952