Illinois is a great destination for trout fishing enthusiasts. The state offers a wide range of fishing opportunities, including streams, rivers, and lakes that are home to different species of trout. But if you’re planning on visiting Illinois for trout fishing, you might be wondering if there is a specific season to do so.
Is There a Trout Season in Illinois?
Yes, there is a trout season in Illinois. The state has two seasons for trout fishing – the spring season and the fall season.
During the spring season, which usually runs from the first Saturday in April to the end of May, anglers can fish for rainbow trout in any of the state’s 51 ponds and lakes that are stocked with this species. The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) stocks these water bodies with catchable-sized rainbow trout before the opening day of the season.
The fall season, on the other hand, runs from October 16th through the end of October. During this time, anglers can fish for rainbow trout in select bodies of water that are stocked by the IDNR.
Where Can You Fish for Trout in Illinois?
Illinois has several locations where anglers can fish for different species of trout. Here are some popular spots:
Spring Lake
Spring Lake is a 78-acre lake located within Spring Lake State Fish and Wildlife Area in Tazewell County. It is one of the most popular destinations for rainbow trout fishing during the spring season.
Banner Marsh State Fish and Wildlife Area
Banner Marsh is a 4,363-acre site located near Banner in Fulton County. The area has several bodies of water that are stocked with rainbow trout during the spring season.
Rock Creek
Rock Creek is a tributary of Kaskaskia River located near Percy in Randolph County. It is one of the few places in Illinois where you can fish for brown trout.
Cache River State Natural Area
The Cache River State Natural Area is a 14,000-acre site located in Pulaski and Johnson Counties. The area has several streams that are home to native brook trout.
- Other popular trout fishing spots in Illinois include:
- – Lake Shelbyville
- – Apple River
- – Jackson Falls
Rules and Regulations
Anglers who wish to fish for trout in Illinois must have a valid fishing license and a trout stamp. The IDNR also imposes daily catch limits and size limits to ensure sustainable trout populations.
During the spring season, anglers are allowed to keep up to five rainbow trout per day, with no minimum size limit. During the fall season, the daily catch limit is two rainbow trout per day, with a minimum size limit of 9 inches.
It’s also important for anglers to note that some water bodies may have additional regulations or restrictions on fishing for trout. Always check with the IDNR before heading out to your chosen fishing spot.
In conclusion, Illinois offers excellent opportunities for anglers looking to fish for different species of trout. With two distinct seasons and several locations to choose from, there’s something for everyone. Just remember to follow the rules and regulations set by the IDNR to ensure sustainable fisheries for future generations of anglers.
