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Regulation Information

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SPORT FISHING LICENSE

Anglers should have their Illinois Sport Fishing license in possession at all times while fishing. License sales for the year begin on March 1. Annual licenses expire on March 31 each year (i.e., a license purchased on or after March 1, 2024 will expire on March 31, 2025). 3-year licenses expire on March 31 of the 2nd year after the year in which the license was issued.

ILLINOIS RESIDENTS:

A resident sport fishing license may be obtained by anyone who has been a resident of Illinois 30 days prior to purchase. Sport fishermen under 16 years of age, and persons declared legally disabled or blind, may fish without a license. Owners or tenants (if they reside on the land) may fish in waters on or flowing over their lands without a license. This exemption does not apply to club and organizational lakes or lake developments.

Persons on active duty in the Armed Forces are considered residents. A person on active duty in the Armed Forces, who entered the service from Illinois and is an Illinois resident, may fish without a license while on leave.

** Half-priced sport fishing and sportsman’s licenses will be available to resident veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces after returning from service abroad, or mobilization by the President of the United States. Veterans must contact the Springfield office to obtain a half-priced license. Please call 217-782-6302.

NON-RESIDENTS:

Non-residents of Illinois may purchase sport fishing licenses to fish waters of the state. Non-resident sport fishermen under 16 years of age may fish without a license. All other non-resident sport fishermen must purchase sport fishing licenses before fishing in Illinois (except in licensed fee fishing areas or on boundary rivers).

Resident or non-resident sport fishermen who fish at fee fishing areas licensed by the Department of Natural Resources are not required to have a license.

Non-residents holding licenses from states bordering Illinois are not required to have an Illinois license to fish on the Illinois side of rivers adjoining the licensing state.

Sport fishermen should have their license in possession at all times while fishing. Licenses expire on March 31 each year.

WATERCRAFT REGISTRATION AND SAFETY

WATERCRAFT REGISTRATION

All watercraft operated on the waters within the jurisdiction of this State shall be registered and titled except for unpowered vessels, including canoes, kayaks and paddleboards. Illinois BoatRegistration and Safety Act Information can be found at: https://www2.illinois.gov/dnr/boating/Documents/ BoatDigest.pdf

HOW TO REGISTER OR RENEW YOUR BOAT IN ILLINOIS

To register your boat, you must submit a boat application; required documents; and the appropriate fee.

Applications are available from Department of Natural Resources offices, boat dealers, or on-line at https://www2.illinois.gov/dnr/boating/Pages/How- ToRegister.aspx. If you have any questions regarding registration and titling please call 217-557-0180 or 1-800-382-1696. To renew your registration by phone please call 1-866-867-3542.

BOATING SAFETY EDUCATION

Boat safety education is a positive move toward a safe and enjoyable boating future. Beginning on January 1, 2016, no person born on or after January 1, 1998 shall operate a motorboat with over 10horse power unless that person has a valid Boating Safety Certificate issued by the Department of Natural Resources or an entity or organization recognized and approved by the Department. Enroll in a Boat Safety Course now. For information on class locations call: 1-800-832-2599, or visit: http://www. dnr.illinois.gov/safety/Pages/BoatingSafety.aspx.

RIVER CLOSURES

Illinois Department of Natural Resources routinely monitors river conditions throughout the state to ensure that river conditions are safe for recreational and commercial boat traffic. For information on river closures in Illinois please visit the following websites:

Illinois Department of Natural Resources: https://www2.illinois.gov/dnr/closures/pages/ riverclosures.aspx

United States Coast Guard: https://www.uscg.mil/home/

SUMMARY OF FISHING REGULATIONS

ADMINISTRATIVE RULES

The fisheries of Illinois are administered to assure conservation and enhancement of the fishery resource and the equity of the fishing public, while providing for maximum enjoyment. Statutes provide the framework by which fishing opportunities are administered. These opportunities, however, are sometimes subject to a variety of regulations, depending on local site conditions and situations unique to a particular fishery. These detailed regulations are set forth in administrative rules. Such administrative rules are enforced in the same manner as are provisions of the statutes, and are subject to the same penalties. See TITLE 17: CONSERVATION for more details: http://www.ilga.gov/commission/jcar/admincode/01 7/017parts.html.

AGGREGATE (re: “singly or in the aggregate”)

Aggregate means a combination of all species listed. A Daily Harvest Limit is the maximum number of fish that may be in possession and the number of fish is the sum of fish of each species listed for the regulation, whether the phrase “singly or in the aggregate” appears or not. For example, Bluegill or Redear Sunfish – 25 Fish Daily Harvest Limit means an angler may harvest 25 Bluegill or 25 Redear Sunfish, or 25 fish of the two species combined (e.g., 15 Bluegill and 10 Redear Sunfish).

AQUATIC LIFE

Aquatic life is statutorily defined as all fish, reptiles, amphibians, mollusks, crustaceans, algae, aquatic plants, aquatic invertebrates, and any other aquatic animals or plants that the Department identifies in Administrative Rules.

AQUATIC LIFE APPROVED SPECIES LIST

The Aquatic Life Approved Species List is created and maintained by the Department and is comprised of specific species of aquatic life, within the categories of fish, crustaceans, gastropods, mollusks, and plants. The following aquatic life categories will be considered approved for aquaculture, transportation, stocking, importation and/or possession in the State of Illinois. A complete list of Aquatic Life Approved Species can be found at: https: /https://www.uscg.mil/home/

BAIT FISHING

The following fish species may be taken by anglers with a valid sportfishing license with a legal size cast net or shad scoop and used for live or dead bait on the body of water where they are collected: mooneye (Hiodon tergisus), goldeye (Hiodon alosoides), skipjack herring (Alosa chrysochloris), carp (other than bighead carp (Hypophthalmichthys nobilis), black carp (Mylopharyngodon piceus), grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon Idella), and silver carp (Hypophthalmichthys molotrix)). The following fish species may be taken by anglers with a valid sportfishing license with a cast net or shad scoop and used for dead bait on the body of water where they are collected: bighead carp (Hypoph-thalmichthys nobilis), black carp (Mylopharyngodon piceus), grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idella), and silver carp (ahypophthalmichthys molotrix).

All cast nets shall be not larger than 24 feet in diameter or of a mesh size not larger than 1 inch bar measurement. All shad scoops shall be not larger than 30 inches in diameter or of a mesh size not larger than 1/2 inch bar measurement or longer than 4 feet in length.

Minnows (any fish in the family Cyprinidae except Bighead Carp Hypophthalmichthys nobilis, Black Carp Mylopharyngodon piceus, Grass Carp Ctenopharyngodon Idella, and Silver Carp Hypophthalmichthys molotrix) and crayfish may be taken by anglers with a valid sportfishing license and used as LIVE or DEAD bait on the body of water where they are collected using traps of metal screen or hardware cloth, plastic, or nylon mesh or netting or minnow seines. Such traps may not be more than 24 inches in width or diameter or more than 36 inches in length nor use a mesh of more than 1/2 inch bar measurement. Each entrance aperture may not exceed 1.5 inches in diameter. If unattended, such devices must be tagged with the name and mailing address of the person operating the device. Minnow seines shall not be longer than 20 feet, deeper than 6 feet or contain mesh size larger than 1/2 inch bar measurement. Minnows and crayfish collected in such devices may only be taken for personal use and may not be sold or bartered.

Aquatic life protected under 17 Ill. Adm. Code 1010 - Illinois List of Endangered and Threatened Fauna may not be taken for any purpose including bait fishing.

The use of LIVE injurious species (as described in 17 Ill. Adm. Code, Part 805) as bait is prohibited. Possession of live specimens, progeny thereof, viable eggs, or gametes is prohibited.

Collected LIVE bait fish must be used on the waterbody where taken. Bait fish collected in the tailwaters of a waterbody (i.e., below a dam or spillway) may not be used as LIVE or DEAD bait in the upstream waterbody. The taking of aquatic life with a dip net, casting net, or shad scoop shall not be permitted within 100 feet of the base of any dam.

BOWFISHING (ARCHERY/SPEAR METHODS)

a) Legal Methods of Taking

Aquatic life as listed by species in part b below may be taken by means of a pitchfork, underwater spear gun, bow and arrow or bow and arrow device, spear or gig. A valid sport fishing license is required for taking aquatic life under this rule. Aquatic life taken by these means shall not be sold or bartered. No other aquatic life (e.g. fish, amphibian, or reptile species) may be taken in this State by these means. It is unlawful to discharge any gun or bow and arrow device along, upon, across or from any public right-of-way or highway in this State. [515 ILCS 5/10-110 (b)]

b) Species

Only fish, amphibian, and reptile species listed may be taken by bowfishing and other legal methods and in accordance with harvest limits identified for each. Fish, amphibian, and reptile species permitted to be taken by bowfishing and other archery/spear fishing legal methods in Illinois waters include:

Native fish

Alligator Gar - Atractosteus spatula
Bigmouth Buffalo – Ictiobus cyprinellus
Black Buffalo – Ictiobus niger
Black Bullhead – Ameiurus melas
Black Redhorse – Moxostoma duquesnei
Blue Catfish – Ictalurus furcatus
Blue Sucker – Cycleptus elongates
Bowfin – Amia calva
Brown Bullhead – Ameiurus nebulosus
Channel Catfish – Ictalurus punctatus
Flathead Catfish – Pylodictis olivaris
Freshwater Drum – Aplodinotus grunniens
Gizzard Shad – Dorosoma cepedianum
Golden Redhorse – Moxostoma erythrurum
Highfin Carpsucker – Carpiodes velifer
Longnose Gar – Lepisosteus osseus
Quillback Carpsucker – Carpiodes cyprinus
River Carpsucker – Carpiodes carpio
Shorthead Redhorse –
Moxostoma macrolepidotum
Shortnose Gar – Lepisosteus platostomus
Silver Redhorse – Moxostoma anisurum
Smallmouth Buffalo – Ictiobus bubalus
Spotted Gar – Lepisosteus oculatus
Spotted Sucker – Minytrema melanops
White Sucker – Catostomus commersoni
Yellow Bullhead – Ameiurus natalis

Non-Native fish

Bighead carp – Hypophthalmichthys nobilis
Black carp – Mylopharyngodon piceus
Common carp – Cyprinus carpio
Goldfish – Carassius auratus
Grass carp – Ctenopharyngodon idella
Northern snakehead – Channa argus
Oriental weatherfish –
Misgurnus anguillicaudatus
Pacu – Callisoma spp.
Round goby – Neogobius malanistomus
Sea Lamprey – Petromyzon marinus
Silver carp – Hypophthalmichthys molitrix
Tilapia – Tilapia spp.
White catfish – Ameiurus catus

Native Reptiles and Amphibians

American Bullfrog – Lithobates catesbeianus

Common Snapping Turtle – Chelydra serpentine

c) No live possession of Non-Native Fish species listed in subsection (b) is permitted, with the exception of Common Carp and Goldfish.

d) Waters Open to Bowfishing and Other Legal Archery and Spear Fishing Methods

1) Illinois waters open to bowfishing and other legal methods include all public rivers and streams noted in 17 Ill. Adm. Code, Part 3704. Appendix A, except as restricted by subsections (d)(3) through (d)(15).

2) All public site specific waters as noted in this digest that are outlined in 17 Ill. Adm. Code, Section 810.45.

3) Catfish species may only be taken in rivers and connected public (wholly accessible by boat) backwaters as listed in 17 Ill. Adm. Code, Section 810.15 as noted in subsections (d)(4) through (d)(15).

4) Mississippi River and connected public (wholly accessible by boat) backwaters, including that portion of the Kaskaskia River below the navigation lock and dam, except:

A) Quincy Bay, including Quincy Bay Waterfowl Management Area

B) Spring Lake in the Upper Mississippi River Wildlife and Fish Refuge; and

C) Mark Twain U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service National Wildlife Refuge Waters.

5) Illinois River and connected public (wholly accessible by boat) backwaters except for:

A) U.S. Fish and Wildlife National Wildlife Refuge Waters;

B) Donnelley/DePue State Fish and Wildlife Areas;

C) Rice Lake State Fish and Wildlife Area, including all of Big Lake;

D) Meredosia Lake in Cass and Morgan Counties during the central zone duck season; and

E) Clear Lake in Mason County 7 days prior to and during the central zone duck season.

6) Wabash River

7) Embarras River, except from Route 130 in Coles County upstream to the dam.

8) Sangamon River, downstream of Belt Route 48 southwest of Decatur to mouth in Cass County

9) Kaskaskia River south of Route U.S. 50 Bridge to mouth in Randolph County

10) Little Wabash River

11) Big Muddy River south of the State Route 14 highway bridge in Franklin County downstream to the confluence with the Mississippi River in Jackson County

12) Skillet Fork

13) Cache River from Route 51 downstream to the Mississippi River via Cache Diversion Channel, but not including that portion of the Cache River between the Cache Diversion Channel Levee and the Ohio River

14) Saline River in Gallatin and Saline Counties

15) Ohio River, except for:

A) Olmsted Locks and Dam downstream to a line perpendicular with the end of the longest lock wall, including the circular cell portion

B) Smithland Dam downstream to a line perpendicular to the end of the outer lock wall; and

C) Within 50 yards of the

CATCH AND RELEASE FISHING

Fishing with no harvest of target fish species permitted. Caught fish must be returned to the same water immediately.

CLEANING FISH ON WATERS

No fish entrails or carcass may be disposed of into the waters of Illinois after cleaning. No fish species may be dressed (filleted or head and tail removed) on any waters to which length limits are applicable.

CLOSED SEASON

A closed season means that fish may not be taken between the specified dates. Waters receiving catchable rainbow trout have closed seasons (spring and/or fall). A closed season prohibiting harvest of rainbow trout is necessary in order for the State to have the trout stocked and permit all anglers to have an equal opportunity to harvest fish on the “opening day” of the season.

COMMERCIAL FISH

The minimum size limit on Channel Catfish, Flathead Catfish, Blue Catfish and White Catfish taken by commercial fishermen is 15 inches, except in the Wabash and Ohio Rivers. No Channel Catfish, Blue Catfish or Flathead Catfish less than 13 inches in total length may be taken from the Wabash and Ohio Rivers. Only one Channel Catfish per day equal to or greater than 28 inches may be harvested from the Wabash and Ohio Rivers. Only one Blue Catfish and one Flathead Catfish per day equal to or greater than 35 inches may be harvested from the Wabash or Ohio Rivers. No Paddlefish less than 28 inches in length may be taken by commercial fisherman from the Illinois or Mississippi Rivers. No Paddlefish less than 32 inches may be taken by commercial fishermen from the Ohio River. No Shovelnose sturgeon under 24 inches or over 32 inches in length may be taken by commercial fishermen from the Mississippi River or the Ohio River. No Shovelnose Sturgeon under 25 inches in length may be taken by commercial fishermen from the Wabash River. There is no size limit on Carp, Drum, Bullhead, Buffalo, Sucker, Shortnose Gar, Longnose Gar, Spotted Gar, Bowfin, Yellow Perch, Chub, Mooneye, Goldeye, Carpsucker and Smelt. All other species may not be taken commercially, but if caught incidentally must be returned immediately to waters where taken. Additional information can be found at https:// <a href="http://www.ifishillinois.org/programs/commercialfish.html

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COMMERCIAL LICENSES

A commercial fishing license and sportfishing license is required for any person who uses a commercial device to harvest fish (including minnows) or crayfish. Any person assisting a licensed commercial fisherman in taking fish (including minnows) or crayfish must have a sportfishing license. A resident commercial fishing license can be issued only to persons who haveresided in Illinois for at least a year. The commercial fishing license expires March 31 annually. In addition, the holder of this license must obtain a license for each commercial device fished. All commercial fishermen shall procure a commercial roe harvest permit in addition to their commercial fishing and sportfishing license before taking roe-bearing species (bowfin, paddlefish, and shovelnose sturgeon).

A commercial musseling license is required for any person who commercially harvests mussels. Any person assisting a licensed commercial musselor in taking mussels must have a commercial musseling license. Commercial licenses and information are available at the Department of Natural Resources, Commercial Permits Office, One Natural Resources Way, Springfield, IL 62702.217-785-3423 and www.ifishillinois.org/programs/commercialfish.html" class="redactor-autoparser-object">https:// #####replacepars...

CRAYFISH

sell or use as bait LIVE Rusty Crayfish. The Rusty Crayfish may be distinguished by a dark rusty spot on both sides of the carapace (body) and a rusty-red band followed by a dark stripe on the large pincers (claws). Rusty Crayfish destroy aquatic vegetation and eat the eggs of various fishes, which negatively affects fish reproduction. DEAD Rusty Crayfish may be used as bait.

Endangered or threatened species may NOT be taken for use as bait, LIVE or DEAD.

The following crayfish species are listed on the Illinois Aquatic Life Approved Species List and shall be allowed for use as LIVE bait in Illinois: White River Crayfish Procambarus acutus, Papershell Crayfish Faxonius immunis, Northern Crayfish Faxonius virilis, and Devil Crayfish Lacunacambarus diogenes. These approved crayfish may be captured using legal angling methods in Illinois including legal traps and cast nets, shad scoops, and minnow seines with a sportfishing license.

Those wild caught approved species (above) can be collected by any approved method but may only be used as bait on the waters where collected. Crayfish taken with a sportfishing license may only be taken for personal use, and may not be sold or bartered. DEAD crayfish of any species, excluding endangered or threatened species, may be used as bait.

Crayfish traps: traps of metal screen or hardware cloth, plastic, or nylon mesh or netting may be used to capture approved crayfish. Such traps may not be more than 24 inches in width or diameter or more than 36 inches in length nor use a mesh of more than 1/2 inch bar measurement. Each entrance aperture may not exceed 1 1/2 inches in diameter. If unattended, such devices must be tagged with the name, mailing address and phone number of the person operating the device. Crayfish collected in such devices may only be used on the waters where collected, may only be taken for personal use, and may not be sold or bartered.

Only persons possessing a valid commercial fishing license may harvest and sell crayfish from designated waters. Additional information can be found at https://www.ifishillinois.org/...

CULLING

It is illegal to replace a smaller fish held in possession with a larger fish unless: the smaller fish is counted toward the daily limit or released within the confines of a IDNR Permitted catch-and-release fishing tournament which requires the participants to have a boat live well with a pump constantly adding fresh or recirculating water.

DAILY HARVEST AND LENGTH LIMITS (STATEWIDE)

Statewide daily harvest and length limits are found on p. 10 of the Fishing Digest. These harvest and length limits apply to all Water of the State. Anglers should check daily harvest and length limits listed in Site-specific Regulations (beginning on p. 12) which may be more restrictive.

Length is measured from the tip of the snout to the end of the tail with the fish laid flat on a ruler, with the mouth of the fish closed and the tail lobes pressed together. No fish species may be dressed (filleted or head and tail removed) on any waters to which length and harvest limits are applicable. Regardless of where taken, no fish less than the specified minimum length or more than the daily harvest shall be possessed while taking from, or on the waters to which length limits and/or daily harvest limits apply.

If a daily harvest limit covers more than one fish species (e.g., White, Black, or Hybrid Crappie), the number of fish permitted to be taken includes all fish species covered by the regulation added together (in the aggregate).

DAILY FEE FISHING AREA

A sport fishing license and “Inland Trout Stamp” are not required to fish in a Department of Natural Resources licensed daily fee fishing area. Daily Fee Fishing Areas by administrative rule are defined as any privately owned water area that is controlled, operated or managed for fishing and utilized by persons who pay a daily fee, either directly or indirectly; water bodies that are controlled, operated or managed as private club lakes, organizational lakes or lake developments are not eligible to receive a daily fee fishing area license.

DIP NETS

A sport fishing license allows the holder to harvest smelt in Lake Michigan with a dip net not exceeding 12 feet in diameter and having a mesh size not less than 1 inch diagonal stretch. In other waters carp, carpsucker, buffalo and gizzard shad may be taken with a dip net up to 15 feet in diameter and with a mesh size no less than 1 1/2 inches bar measure. Such equipment may not be used within 100 feet of a dam or to harvest game fish.

DISABLED OUTDOOR OPPORTUNITIES

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources is committed to providing greater access and more programs for persons with disabilities. We want to make it easier for disabled individuals to hunt, fish, and pursue other outdoor activities. DNR’s intention is to expand these opportunities so more individuals may take part. For more information, contact IDNR at 618-435-8138 ext. 130.

DRESSED FISH

No fish species may be dressed (filleted or head and tail removed) on any waters to which length or harvest limits are applicable

ENDANGERED AND THREATENED SPECIES OF AQUATIC LIFE

There are more than 80 species of aquatic life in Illinois currently on the State Endangered and Threatened (E&T) Species List which may not be taken for any purpose. For more information or to obtain a listing of these species of aquatic life, please go to https://naturalheritage.illino... and click on the link List of Endangered and Threatened Species in Illinois.

Species on the E&T list most likely taken by sport fishing methods include the River Redhorse, Greater Redhorse, Lake Sturgeon, and Mudpuppy. Accidental catches of E&T Species should be released immediately.

FISHING

Fishing shall be defined as taking or attempting to take aquatic life in any waters of the State, by any method, and all other acts such as placing, setting, drawing or using any device commonly used for the taking of aquatic life, whether resulting in taking or not. This also applies to the removal of dead and decaying aquatic life.

FISH ATTRACTORS

Sport fishermen may wish to add habitat or ‘fish attractors’ to their favorite fishing location, however fish attractors can only be put in public lakes with permission from your IDNR District Fish Biologist. Fish attractors may be put in private ponds and lakes.

FISH DISPOSAL / WANTON WASTE – AQUATIC LIFE ABANDONMENT

Except as provided in 17 Ill. Adm. Code, Section 810.14, it is unlawful for any person at any time to take or possess any fish, reptiles, amphibians, mollusks and crustaceans in Illinois waters by sportfishing methods and then intentionally leave or abandon such aquatic life or portions thereof resulting in wanton or needless waste.

“Wanton or needless waste” means to place, leave, dump or abandon any aquatic life or aquatic life parts protected by 17 Ill. Adm. Code, Section 810 along or upon any public right-of-way or highway, waterway or stream, or on any public or private property without the permission of the owner or tenant. No disposal of aquatic life or aquatic life portions shall be allowed on State owned or leased properties except at designated fish cleaning stations, where available.

Section 810.14 does not exclude fish or fish parts used for the purposes of bait or other lawful purposes or apply to injurious species of fish that accidentally jump into a watercraft and are immediately returned to the water.

FISH PRESERVES

All waters under state jurisdiction are statutorily fish preserves, open only to sport fishing. However, certain waters are open to commercial fishing by administrative rule. Contact the Department of Natural Resources for more information.

FISHING GUIDES

Fishing guides are required to possess a passenger for hire license. More information can be found by visiting the IDNR website at: https://dnr.illinois.gov/boati...

FREE FISHING DAYS

During the period of June 14, 15, 16, and 17, 2024, it shall be legal for any person to fish in waters wholly or in part within the jurisdiction of the State, including the Illinois portion of Lake Michigan, without possessing a sport fishing license, salmon stamp or inland trout stamp

GROUP FISHING PERMITS

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources may issue at no cost group fishing permits for hospital patients, nursing home residents, or handicapped people in connection with supervised fishing for therapy. The IDNR reserves the right to determine if the group falls within the definitions listed above.

For more information or an application form, contact the Illinois Department of Natural Resources.

HARVEST

Any aquatic life taken into possession from any waters of the State by any method. Harvested fish from more than one angler may be kept on the same stringer or in the same basket or livewell, assuming all harvest and length limits are followed.

HARVESTING FISH ON PRIVATE PROPERTY

State wide daily creel and length limits do not apply to a person fishing in waters wholly within his or her private property.

ICE FISHING

A sport fishing license is required for ice fishing. The ice angler may use a maximum of three poles or tip-ups with no more than two hooks on each line. Sites with a two pole and line fishing only restriction may use a maximum of two poles or tipups. Holes cut in the ice are limited to 12-inch diameter or less. Shelter structures are limited to portable construction of metal or wood framework, covered with canvas, paper, plastic material or similar fabric. Each shelter shall have the name and address of the owner attached, and after March 1 the shelter must be removed when not in use, and not left unattended at any time. All poles and tipups shall be constantly attended and kept under observation by the angler.

ILLEGAL DEVICES

Use of the following devices in the taking of aquatic life is prohibited: electricity or electrical devices, except lights; lime; acid; medical, chemical or mechanical compounds; dope; drugs; fishberry; dynamite; nitroglycerine or other explosive; snare; treated grain; firearms; air gun; gas gun; wire basket; wire seine; wire net; wire trotline or limb lines of any kind.

INJURIOUS SPECIES

To prevent the introduction and spread of aquatic nuisance species, Illinois has implemented an Injurious Species regulation (Administrative Code 805). Of special note to sport fishermen, this rule prohibits the possession of LIVE species deemed to be harmful to our lakes and rivers, and to the fish and wildlife that inhabit them. These harmful species include, but are not limited to:

Bighead Carp
Black Carp
Eurasian Ruffe
Rudd
Round Goby
Rusty Crayfish
Silver Carp
Snakehead
Tubenose Goby
Walking Catfish
Zebra Mussel
Brazilian Elodea
Hydrilla
Eurasian Watermilfoil
Quagga Mussel

The injurious aquatic life species listed above may be immediately returned unharmed from where they were taken. In example, a Round Goby caught on pole and line can be immediately returned to the waters where taken. An Asian carp that jumps into a boat can be immediately returned to the waters where taken.

To view the complete list of regulated species and full text of Administrative Code 805, please visit http://www.ilga.gov/commission/jcar/admin- code/017/01700805sections.html.

For more information on aquatic nuisance species, log on to https://www.ilga.gov/commission/ jcar/admincode/017/01700805sections.html or contact the IDNR Aquatic Nuisance Species Program by phone at 217-785-8772 or by email at [email protected].

INLAND TROUT STAMP - ALL WATERS

(except Lake Michigan)

Sport fishermen are required to purchase an “Inland Trout Stamp” prior to taking of trout from all waters except Lake Michigan. Fees are (including agent’s fees): Resident and Non-resident; annual $6.50

Resident; 65 years old and over - $6.50

Resident; 75 years old and over - $0.50

Resident and non-resident under 16 years of age - NONE

Resident; disabled, blind - NONE

The 24-hour license does not include trout fishing privileges.

MINNOWS

A minnow is statutorily defined as any fish in the minnow family (Cyprinidae) except Carp and Goldfish.

Persons possessing a valid sport fishing license may harvest minnows with cast nets (not larger than 24 feet in diameter and having a mesh size not larger than 1 inch bar measurement), shad scoops (not larger than 30 inches in diameter or longer than 4 feet in length and having a bar mesh size not larger than 1/2 inch), a minnow seine (no longer than 20 feet in length, deeper than 6 feet or having a mesh size larger than 1/2 inch bar measurement), or a trap not more than 36 inches in length, 24 inches in width, and with mesh no larger than 1/2 inch bar measurement.

Collected minnows must be used on the water body where taken whether LIVE or DEAD. Minnows collected in the tailwaters of a waterbody (i.e., below a dam or spillway) may not be used as LIVE or DEAD bait in the upstream waterbody.

MUSSELS

Only persons possessing a valid commercial musselor license may harvest and sell mussels from designated waters. Additional information can be found at https://www.ifishillinois.org/...;

Persons possessing a sportfishing license may possess up to 50 relic mussel shells for personal collection. A relic mussel shell is defined as one which died of natural causes within the water and contains no meat or soft parts; it readily exhibits noticeable sediment, vegetation, algal or mineral stains, discolorations, soiling, weathering or other visual evidence on its interior surface which clearly and unambiguously shows the mussel shell has not been cooked-out or freshly cleaned.

POLLUTION

The Department of Natural Resources cooperates with the Environmental Protection Agency in conducting pollution investigations. Sport fishermen are often the first to observe water pollution, and their assistance is invited in reporting these instances to District and Regional Fisheries Biologists, to a Conservation Police Officer or to the Division of Fisheries in Springfield.

It is unlawful for waste or sewage to be discharged into waters so as to kill aquatic life. It is also unlawful to abandon or deposit wire, cans, bottles, glass, paper, trash, rubbish, cardboard, wood cartons, boxes, trees, brush or other insoluble materials into the water or on the ice, or at any place on the bank where such debris is liable to be washed into the water. Strict penalties are provided for violation of this section of the statute.

PROPERTY

Consideration for others is a philosophy of the sportsman. Consent of the landowner or occupant of the premises shall be obtained before fishing or attempting to harvest aquatic life on another’s property or within waters other than public waters of the state. Care should be taken not to cause damage to the property.

PROTECTED SLOT LENGTH LIMIT

Fish within a designated length range must be released immediately.

RELIC MUSSEL SHELL

A relic (dead) mussel shell is defined as one which apparently died of natural causes within the water and contains no meat or soft parts; it readily exhibits noticeable sediment, vegetation, algal or mineral stains, discolorations, soiling, weathering or other visual evidence on its interior surface which clearly and unambiguously shows the mussel shell has not been cooked-out or freshly treblehookcleaned.

SALE OF AQUATIC LIFE

No fish, amphibians, reptiles, crayfish, or parts thereof (including eggs or resulting offspring) taken by sport fishing license methods (including snagging) may be bought, sold or bartered.

SALMON STAMP - LAKE MICHIGAN

Sport fishermen are required to purchase a “Lake Michigan Salmon Stamp” prior to taking of salmon and trout from Lake Michigan. Fees are (including agent’s fee):

Resident and non-resident; annual................. $6.50

Resident; 65 years old and over..................... $6.50

Resident; 75 years old and over..................... $0.50

Resident and non-resident under 16 years of age.................................... NONE

Resident; disabled, blind............................... NONE

The 24-hour license does not include salmonid fishing privileges in Lake Michigan.

SEASONS

Sport fishing is open year-round (except as noted in the Site Specific Regulations section and for turtle and frog season).

SMELT

The sport fishing season for smelt is from March 1 through April 30 (check local seasonal regulations for smelt fishing from Chicago Park District properties). A sport fishing license entitles the angler to harvest smelt. Waters of Lake Michigan comprise Illinois’ smelt fishery. Smelt may be taken with a seine or gill net not more than 12 feet long, 6 feet deep and with mesh size not more than 1 inch diagonal stretch, or by dip net not more than 12 feet in diameter with mesh size not less than 1 inch diagonal stretch. Trolley or power lines may also be used by sport fishermen in taking smelt (see Trot and Trolley Line section). No person shall operate more than one smelt net device at any one time. All fish taken other than smelt must be released immediately.

SNAGGING

a) Sport fishermen are permitted only one pole and line device to which can be attached no more than two hooks. On the Mississippi River between Illinois and Iowa, the maximum treblehook size is 5/0; gaffs may not be used to land paddlefish.

b) Species of Fish and Snagging Harvest Limit.

1) Only the following species of fish and harvest limit may be taken by snagging:

Asian Carp (no live possession) – no harvest limit

Common Carp – no harvest limit

Buffalo – no harvest limit

Freshwater Drum – no harvest limit

Salmon (coho and chinook only) – five fish, in the aggregate, daily harvest limit

Paddlefish – two per day; the maximum length limit for paddlefish taken from the Mississippi River between Illinois and Iowa is 33-inch eye-fork length (EFL) (all paddlefish greater than or equal to 33-inch EFL must be immediately released back to the Mississippi River); the minimum length limit for paddlefish taken from the Mississippi River between Illinois and Missouri is 24-inch EFL(all paddlefish less than or equal to 24-inch EFL must be immediately released back to the Mississippi River).

Bowfin – no harvest limit

Gizzard shad – no harvest limit

Carpsuckers – no harvest limit

Longnose gar – no harvest limit

Shortnose gar – no harvest limit

Suckers – no harvest limit

2) No sorting (i.e., catching more fish than is allowed and putting back some in order to keep larger ones) of snagged salmon and paddlefish is permitted, except for paddlefish taken from the Mississippi River between Illinois and Missouri where sorting is permitted. Every paddlefish snagged must be included in the daily harvest limit. Every salmon 10 inches in total length or longer snagged must be taken into immediate possession and included in the daily harvest limit. Once the daily limit of salmon or paddlefish has been reached, snagging must cease.

c) Waters Open to Snagging and Snagging Season.

1) Snagging for fish is permitted from September 15 through December 15 and from March 15 through May 15 within a 300 yard downstream limit below all locks and dams of the Illinois River, except for the area below the Peoria Lock and Dam where snagging is permitted year round.

2) Snagging for fish is permitted from September 15 through December 15 and from March 15 through May 15 within a 300 yard downstream limit below all locks and dams of the Mississippi River between Illinois and Missouri, except for the Chain of Rocks low water dam at Chouteau Island Madison County, also known as Dam 27 at the Chain of Rocks – Madison County where no snagging is permitted. Snagging is permitted from 1/2 hour before sunrise to 1/2 hour after sunset daily, March 1 through April 15 within a 500 yard downstream limit below locks and dams on the Mississippi River between Illinois and Iowa.

3) Snagging for fish is permitted year-round within a 100 yard limit upstream or downstream of the dam at Horseshoe Lake in Alexander County.

4) Snagging for chinook and coho salmon only is permitted from the following Lake Michigan shoreline areas from October 1 through December 31; however, no snagging is allowed at any time within 200 feet of a moored watercraft or as posted:

A) Lincoln Park Lagoon from the Fullerton Avenue Bridge to the southern end of the Lagoon.

B) Waukegan Harbor (in North Harbor basin only).

C) Winnetka Power Plant discharge area.

D) Jackson Harbor (Inner and Outer Harbors).

d) Disposition of Snagged Salmon and Paddlefish. All snagged salmon and paddlefish must be removed from the area from which they are taken and disposed of properly, in accordance with Article 5, Section 5-5 of the Fish and Aquatic Life Code. (Source: Amended at 35 Ill. Reg. 4011, effective February 22, 2011)

SPORTFISH

Principal sport fish are the muskellunge, tiger muskie, northern pike, walleye, sauger, saugeye, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, spotted bass, striped bass, hybrid striped bass, white bass, yellow bass, bluegill, redear sunfish, rock bass, white crappie, black crappie, trout and salmon. These may be taken only with sport fishing devices by sport fishermen having sport fishinglicenses. Other species such as paddlefish, catfish, yellow perch, freshwater drum and carp are considered both sport and commercial fish, and the means of taking and purposes for which they are taken prescribe the type of license required. Still other species are considered commercial fish, though when taken on sport fishing devices an angler must have a sport fishing license. A fourth category is endangered and threatened aquatic life. (See Endangered and Threatened Aquatic Life).

SPORTFISHING (HOOK AND LINE METHODS UNDER A SPORTFISHING LICENSE)

Length is measured from the tip of the snout to the end of the tail with the fish laid flat on a ruler, with the mouth of the fish closed and the tail lobes pressed together.

No fish species may be dressed (filleted or head and tail removed) on any waters to which length or bag limits are applicable. Regardless of where taken, no fish less than the specified minimum length or more than the daily harvest shall be possessed while taking from, or on, any waters to which length or bag limits and/or daily harvest limits apply. While taking from areas designated as “Catch and Release Only”, all catch and release species must be immediately released back into the waters from which taken.

SPORTFISHING LICENSE

A sport fishing license entitles an angler to harvest fish, crayfish, turtles or bullfrogs within limits denoted in the Statewide Harvest and Size Limits Table, except for endangered and threatened aquatic life. It is unlawful to sell any aquatic life, or parts thereof, taken by a sport fishing license. Aquatic life may be taken by hand or other legal devices permitted by the sport fishing license which includes: pole and line, bank pole and line, dip net throw line, trot line, buoyed device (jug fishing), or other legal devices not exceeding 50 hooks in total (except as noted under “Ice Fishing” section). Also permitted are legal-sized cast nets, shad scoops and minnow seines (see Baitfishing section). Smelt may be taken in Lake Michigan with legal size dip nets, gill nets andseines. Two untagged sport fishing devices are allowed; each device in excess of two must be tagged with the angler’s name and address. If attached to a tree, the device must be attached only to the main trunk below the water line. All unattended devices must be marked with the angler’s name, address and phone number.

Special fishing regulations at certain water areas prohibit the use of some devices or numbers of devices; please check the Site Specific Regulations which are contained in this document and are posted at various locations at the sites (boat ramps and site offices) where applicable.

STOCKING

Fish may be released into the waters from which they were taken, but permission from the Department of Natural Resources must be secured before releasing fish in other waters, except for private water owners. An owner of a body of water may release aquatic life found on the Aquatic Life Approved Species List into waters wholly upon his or her property so long as the aquatic life is purchased from a licensed Aquatic Life Dealer or Illinois Aquaculturist. Transporting aquatic life or natural water from a public water to private waters is prohibited. It is illegal to import, stock, or possess live diploid grass carp, silver carp, bighead carp or hybrid grass carp or any species not found on the Aquatic Life Approved Species List. A Restricted Species Transportation Permit must be secured from the Department of Natural Resources before importing or stocking triploid grass carp.

SUNFISH AS BAIT

There is nothing in the Illinois Fish Code which prohibits the use of legally taken sunfish as bait for another species of fish, but sunfish can only be used in the body of water from which they were taken. The sunfish must have been taken by a properly licensed sport fisherman using legal sportfishing devices. You must also observe all length limits and daily harvest limits both where the sunfish were taken and where they are being used as bait. Also, it is illegal to cut up or dress or be in possession of cut up or dressed fish on any body of water where there is a size limit for that particular species of fish. Examples of sunfish species legal for use as bait include bluegill, redear sunfish, green sunfish, longear sunfish, pumpkinseed sunfish, warmouth and their hybrids.

TAGGED FISH

Fisheries biologists attach tags to many fish for research purposes. Please report all tags found. If the fish is kept, return the tag to the address printed on the tag or the local fisheries office in your area. If a tagged fish is released, the tag should be reported but left in the fish in good condition. Information regarding the species of fish caught, the length and the weight of the fish, location captured, and the tag number, if present, should also be reported.

Sport fishermen are strongly advised to not tag or fin clip fish caught on state and/or public waters.

In addition to tags, many trout and salmon stocked into Lake Michigan are marked by clipping off one or two fins. Sport fishermen harvesting any trout or salmon with only the adipose fin removed are asked to save the head which contains important information. The adipose fin is the small, fleshy fin found on the backs of trout and salmon between the dorsal fin and the tail. Please record the length and weight of the fish as well as the date and location where caught.

TAKE

To lure, kill, destroy, capture, gig or spear, trap or ensnare, or attempt to do so.

TRANSPORTING WATER, FISH, OR OTHER AQUATIC LIFE

It shall be unlawful to:

1) import or move live aquatic life without securing permission from the Department (bait purchased from a licensed bait shop may be transported);

2) remove natural water from waters of the State via bait bucket, livewell, baitwell, bilge, etc.;

3) remove any watercraft, boat, boat trailer or other equipment from waters of the State without emptying and draining any bait bucket, livewell, baitwell, bilge, etc., or any other compartment capable of holding natural waters; and

4) use wild-trapped fishes as bait within the State of Illinois, other than in the waters where they were legally taken.

Private pond and lake owners may stock any aquatic life found on the Aquatic Life Approved Species List, so long as the aquatic life is purchased from a licensed Aquatic Life Dealer orIllinois Aquaculturist.

TROLLING

Trolling is permissible, provided the angler has not more than three poles and lines with not more than two hooks or lures on each, except in waters where there is a 2 pole and line only designation.

TROT AND TROLLEY LINES

Hooks on trot lines, throw lines and similar devices shall be spaced not less than 24 inches apart, except on trolley or power lines used in Lake Michigan. Trot, throw lines and similar devices are unlawful on “two pole and line fishing only” areas unless specifically authorized in the Site Specific Regulations section of this booklet. Fish taken by these methods must not exceed the statewide regulations (harvest limits and length limits). Trotlines and other legal hook and line devices shall not have more than 50 hooks and must be checked at least every 24 hours. Trotlines and other sportfishing devices left unattended must be tagged with the name, mailing address, and phone number of the operator. All required tags shall be in a position to be at all times exposed to public view.

TWO POLE AND LINE FISHING ONLY

Sport fishermen must not use more than 2 poles and each pole must not have more than 2 hooks or lures attached (Alabama rigs not allowed) while fishing on waters designated as Two Pole and Line Fishing Only in the Site Specific Regulations, except that legal size cast nets, shad scoops, and minnow seines may be used to obtain baitfish, minnows and crayfish to use as bait, provided that they are not sold, and except that Bullfrogs may be taken by hand, gig, pitchfork, spear, landing net and hook and line during Bullfrog season.

UNATTENDED DEVICES

Any unattended device used to catch aquatic life or to hold aquatic life is required to have the angler’s name and address clearly displayed on the device. Bank poles and jug lines must be individually labeled, while a single trotline with up to 50 hooks only requires one label. Unattended devices must be checked at least once every 24 hours.

WATER OF THE STATE

Any water within the jurisdiction of the State of Illinois that is adapted for the purposes of navigation or public access.

WATERFOWL BLINDS

It is unlawful to fish within 250 yards of an occupied duck or goose blind on Department-owned or -managed sites during the migratory waterfowl season. This includes all sites listed and not listed in this regulations booklet.

FROGS AND TURTLES

Bullfrog Common - Lithobates catesbeianus Chelydra serpentina

Method of Taking and Capture - Bullfrogs may be taken only by hook and line, gig, pitchfork, spear, bow and arrow, hand, or landing net.

Season - June 15 through October 15, both dates inclusive

Daily Harvest and Possession Limits - Daily Harvest Limit is 8; possession limit is 16

Snapping Turtle - Lithobates catesbeianus Chelydra serpentina

Method of Taking and Capture - Common Snapping Turtles may be taken only by hand, hook and line, or bow and arrow except in the following Illinois counties where bowfishing for common snapping turtles is not permitted: Randolph, Perry, Franklin, Hamilton, White, Gallatin, Saline, Williamson, Jackson, Union, Johnson, Pope, Hardin, Massac, Pulaski, and Alexander.

Season - June 15 through October 15, both dates inclusive

Daily Harvest and Possession Limits - Daily Harvest Limit is 2; possession limit is 4

Bullfrogs and Common Snapping Turtles may not be taken by bowfishing tournament participants.

All other species of unprotected reptiles and amphibians (excluding Bullfrogs and Common Snapping Turtles) may only be taken by hand. This shall not restrict the use of legally taken reptiles or amphibians as bait by sport fishermen. For indigenous amphibian and reptile taxon (excluding Bullfrogs and Common Snapping Turtles) the possession limit is 8 collectively with no more than 4 per taxa.

DON’T TAKE AN ALLIGATOR SNAPPING TURTLE!

ALLIGATOR SNAPPING TURTLES ARE A STATE ENDANGERED SPECIES AND FULLY PROTECTED BY LAW

The State of Illinois is reintroducing the native alligator snapping turtle to strategic watersheds in Illinois.

You can help recover this unique reptile by:

Learning the difference between common snapping turtles and alligator snappers.
Protecting river corridors and associated wetland habitat.
Reporting any illegal capture, harvest or possession of alligatorsnapping turtles. 1-877-2DNRLAW(236-7529)

Alligator: 3 rows of prominent, pyramid-shaped projections on shell; large head; pronounced beak; worm-like lure on tongue. May NOT be taken in Illinois.

Common: Smooth shell with moderate projections; long neck and tail with sawtooth projections. These turtles may legally be taken with an Illinois fishing license. The daily harvest limit is 2 turtles and possession limit is 4.

STATEWIDE SPORTFISHING REGULATIONS

AQUATIC LIFE	STATEWIDE CREEL AND SIZE LIMITS*
ALLIGATOR GAR	Harvest limit is 1 Alligator Gar per 24 hours.
BLUE, CHANNEL, AND FLATHEAD CATFISH	There are no harvest or size limits except in those waters listed under Site Specific Regulations.
BLUEGILL, REDEAR SUNFISH, OTHER SUNFISH	There are no harvest or size limits except in those waters listed under Site Specific Regulations.
COMMON SNAPPING TURTLES AND BULLFROGS	Season: June 15 to October 15, both dates inclusive. The daily harvest limit for Common Snapping Turtles is 2 with a possession limit of 4. The daily harvest limit for Bullfrogs is 8 with a possession limit of 16. Indigenous Amphibian and Reptile taxa (excluding Common Snapping Turtles and Bullfrogs) possession limit is 8 collectively with no more than 4 per taxa.
CRAPPIE (WHITE, BLACK OR HYBRID CRAPPIE)	There are no harvest or size limits except in those waters listed under Site Specific Regulations.
INJURIOUS SPECIES	For injurious species, as described in 17 Ill. Adm. Code 805, there are no harvest or size limits. Possession of live specimens, progeny thereof, viable eggs, or gametes is prohibited.
LAKE STURGEON	Protected; No possession.
LARGEMOUTH BASS, SMALLMOUTH BASS, SPOTTED BASS	Daily harvest limit is 6 Bass, either singly or in the aggregate, except as specified under Site Specific Regulations. In rivers and streams and their tributaries statewide, except for the Mississippi, Ohio (including Golconda Marina), and Wabash Rivers, the daily harvest can contain no more than 3 Smallmouth Bass. In rivers and streams and their tributaries statewide, except for the Mississippi, Ohio (including the Golconda Marina), Wabash and Illinois Rivers, Calumet River, Lake Calumet Connecting Channel, Calumet Sag Channel and navigable portions of the Grand Calumet River and Little Calumet River, all Smallmouth Bass must be immediately released between April 1 and June 15. There is no statewide size limit.
MUSKELLUNGE, NORTHERN PIKE AND THEIR HYBRIDS	All Muskellunge and Muskellunge hybrids (Tiger Muskie) taken must be 36˝ in total length or longer, except as specified under Site Specific Regulations. No more than 1 Muskellunge or Muskellunge hybrid (Tiger Muskie) may be taken per day, except as specified under Site Specific Regulations. All Northern Pike taken must be 24˝ in total length or longer, except in the Mississippi River where there is no size limit. No more than 3 Northern Pike may be taken per day, except as specified under Site Specific Regulations.
PADDLEFISH	Daily harvest limit is 2 Paddlefish. Please refer to Site Specific Regulations for the Mississippi River between Illinois and Iowa and the Mississippi River between Illinois and Missouri.
STRIPED BASS (OCEAN ROCKFISH), WHITE BASS, YELLOW BASS AND HYBRIDS	There are no daily harvest limits or minimum size limits for Striped Bass (Ocean Rockfish), White Bass, Yellow Bass and their hybrids, which are less than 17˝ in total length, except in those waters listed under Site Specific Regulations. For these fish 17˝ in total length or longer, the daily limit is 3 fish, either singly or in the aggregate, except in the Mississippi River between Illinois and Missouri where thereis a 30 fish daily harvest limit for all Striped, White, Yellow or hybrid Striped Bass. In the Mississippi River between Illinois and Iowa, there is a 25 fish daily harvest limit on Striped Bass, White Bass, Yellow Bass and their hybrids, either singly or in the aggregate.
TROUT AND SALMON	Daily harvest limit is 5 trout or salmon, either singly or in the aggregate.
WALLEYE, SAUGER OR THEIR HYBRID	All Walleye, Sauger, or their hybrid (Saugeye) taken must be 14˝ in total length or longer, except in the Mississippi River, Wabash River, or as specified under Site Specific Regulations. Daily harvest limit is 6 Walleye, Sauger or their hybrid, either singly or in the aggregate, except in those waters listed under Site Specific Regulations.

*The above are statewide sportfish regulations. Specific water areas may have sportfish regulations which differ and are more restrictive. Please check the Site Specific Sportfish Regulations which follow and are posted (at boat launches and at site offices) at each water area where applicable. State Endangered and Threatened Species may not be taken for any purpose.

SITE SPECIFIC SPORTFISHING REGULATIONS

SITE SPECIFIC REGULATIONS are listed by water area affected. The coverage of the regulation is dictated by the extent of the water area(s) listed and not by the county. In some cases, regulations for a given water area or site may extend beyond the counties listed. The listed counties refer to the location of the dam or outfall for impoundments or mouths of small streams. Since large rivers or streams usually flow through many counties, the term “Multiple” is used rather than listing all counties where the large stream or river flows. If a water area is not listed, or if a specific species is not listed, then statewide regulations apply. Check the bulletin boards at the specific site for any emergency changes to regulations.

Various special regulations are used by fisheries managers to protect the fishery. A MINIMUM LENGTH LIMIT means that fish less than a designated length must be released immediately. A PROTECTED SLOT LENGTH LIMIT means that fish within a designated length range must be released immediately. A DAILY HARVEST LIMIT means that no more than the designated limit of fish may be taken daily.

The Daily Harvest Limit applies to all species listed for the regulation added together (i.e., in the aggregate). For example, Large or Smallmouth Bass - 3 Fish Daily Harvest Limit means that only 3 Largemouth Bass, or 3 Smallmouth Bass, or a 3 fish combination of the two species (e.g., 2 Largemouth Bass and 1 Smallmouth Bass) may be taken.

SITE SPECIFIC SPORTFISHING REGULATIONS DEFINITIONS

SITE SPECIFIC SPORTFISHING REGULATIONS

Statewide Sportfishing Regulations are enforced in addition to each area’s Site Specific Regulations

Fishing Limits by Location A-C

Fishing Limits by Location D-G

Fishing Limits by Location H-K

Fishing Limits by Location L-O

Fishing Limits by Location P-R

Fishing Limits by Location S-Z

HOW TO MEASURE FISH

COMMON ILLINOIS SPORT FISH

PLACES TO FISH

BODY OF WATER

Boat Fishing

Boat Rental

Ramps

Water Skiing

Motors*

Swimming

Camp/Picnic

Special Regs.

LM Bass

SM Bass

Bluegill

Crappie

Sunfish

Catfish

Bullhead

Carp

Yellow Perch

White Bass

Striped Bass

Northern Pike

Walleye/Sauger

Yellow Bass

Hybrid Striper

Trout

Muskellunge

Salmon

Warmouth

Smelt

Anderson Lake, Fulton Co.

1,364

Apple River

Argyle Lake, McDonough Co.

Ashland New City Reservoir, Morgan Co.

Baldwin Lake, Randolph Co.

2,018

Banner Marsh, Peoria Co.

1,200

Baumann Lake, Winnebago Co.

Beall Woods Lake, Wabash Co.

Beaver Dam, Macoupin Co.

Beck Lake, Cook Co.

Braidwood Lake, Will Co.

2,308

Busse Lake, Cook Co.

590

Carlyle Lake, Clinton,Fayette & Bond Cos.

24,580

Canton Lake, Fulton Co.

250

Cedar Lake, Jackson Co.

1,750

Citizen’s Lake, Warren Co.

Clinton Lake, DeWitt Co.

5,000

Coffeen Lake, Montgomery Co.

1,100

Crab Orchard Lake, Williamson Co.

6,965

Crab Orchard Visitor Pond,
Williamson Co. (walk-in only, no boats)

Dawson Lake, McLean Co.

150

Deep Quarry Lake, DuPage Co.

Defiance Lake, McHenry Co.

Des Plaines River

Devil’s Kitchen Lake, Williamson Co.

810

Dolan Lake, Hamilton Co.

DuPage River

Dutchman Lake, Johnson Co.

118

East Fork Lake, Richland Co.

935

Emiquon Preserve, Fulton Co.

4,000

Evergreen Lake, McLean Co.

925

Ferne Clyffe Lake, Johnson Co.

Fox Chain O’Lakes, Lake/McHenry

7,110

Forbes Lake, Marion Co.

525

Four Lakes, Winnebago Co.

Fox River

Frank Holten Lakes, St.Clair Co.

180

Gladstone Lake, Henderson Co.

Glenn Shoals Lake, Montgomery Co.

1,200

Governor Bond Lake, Bond Co.

775

120

DA ZM

Heidecke Lake, Grundy Co.

1,955

Hennepin Canal, Bureau Co.

Hennepin-Hopper Lake

1,500

Herrick Lake, DuPage Co.

Homer Lake, Champaign Co.

Horseshoe Lake, Madison Co.

2,430

I&M Canal, Will/Grundy/LaSalle Co

Jim Edgar/Panther Creek State
F& W Area, Gridley Lake, Cass Co.

Prairie Lake, Cass Co.

210

Drake Lake, Cass Co.

Johnson Sauk Lake, Henry Co.

Glen O Jones Lake, Saline Co.

105

Kankakee River

Kaskaskia River

Kickapoo Lakes, Vermilion Co.

184

Kinkaid City Reservoir, Christian Co.

Kinkaid Lake, Jackson Co.

2,750

Kishwaukee River

Lake Bloomington, McLean Co.

635

Lake Carlton, Whiteside Co.

Lake Chaminwood, Will Co.

Lake Charleston, Upper Side Channel, Coles Co.

346

Lake Chatauqua, Mason Co.

1,200

Lake Decatur, Macon Co.

3,093

Lake Eureka, Woodford Co.

Lake George, Rock Island Co.

167

Lake Le-Aqua-Na, Stephenson Co.

Lake Mattoon, Shelby/Cumberland

1,050

Lake Michigan, Cook/Lake Cos.

976,640

Lake Milliken, Will Co.

Lake Mingo, Vermillion Co.

170

Lake of Eqypt, Johnson Co.

2,400

Lake of the Woods, Champaign Co.

Lake Pittsfield, Pike Co.

220

Lake Shelbyville, Shelby/Moultrie

11,100

Lake Springfield, Sangamon Co

4,234

Lake Storey, Knox Co.

133

Lake Sule (seasonal) Ogle Co.

Lake Taylorville, Christian Co.

1286

Lake Vermillion, Vermillion Co.

666

Lake Victoria, Winnebago Co.

16.5

LaSalle Lake, LaSalle Co.

2,050

Levings Lake, Winnebago Co.

25.5

Lincoln Trail Lake, Clark Co.

146

Little Grassy Lake, Williamson Co.

1,000

Lou Yaeger Lake, Montgomery Co.

1268

Mallard Lake, DuPage Co.

Maple Lake, Cook Co.

Maple Lake, DuPage Co.

Marshall County Lake, Marshall Co.

2,557

Mautino State Fish & Wildlife Area,Bureau Co.

74.2

Mazonia Lakes, Grundy/Kankakee Cos.

576

McCullom Lake, McHenry Co.

245

DA ZM

McMaster Lake, Knox Co.

142

Mechanicsburg Park Pond, Sangamon Co.

Mermet Lake, Massac Co.

452

Mill Creek Lake, Clark Co.

811

Monee Reservoir, Will Co.

Mt. Pulaski Park District Pond, Logan Co.

Lake Murphysboro, Jackson Co.

144

Newton Lake, Jasper Co.

1,750

North Branch Chicago River - Cook Co.

Olson Lake, Winnebago Co.

Otter Lake, Macoupin Co.

765

115

Paris Twin Lakes, Edgar Co.

220

Peabody River King Pit #3 Lakes and Ponds, St.Clair Co.

526

Pecatonica River

Pierce Lake, Winnebago Co.

162

Powerton Lake, Tazewell Co.

1,426

Pyramid State Park Lakes, Perry Co.

1,500

Ramsey Lake, Fayette Co.

Randolph County Lake, Randolph Co.

Red Hills Lake, Lawrence Co.

Rend Lake, Franklin/Jefferson Cos.

18,900

Rice Lake, DuPage Co.

Rice Lake, Fulton Co.

1,383

Rock River

Rock Run (Route 6 Quarries), Will Co.

Saganashkee Slough, Cook Co.

325

Sahara Woods FWA, Saline Co.

275

Sam Dale Lake, Wayne Co.

194

Sam Parr Lake, Jasper Co.

180

Sand Lake, Lake Co.

Sangamon River

Sanganois Lakes, Cass Co.

1,550

Sangchris Lake, Christion Co.

2,165

Schuy-Rush Lake, Schuyler Co.

220

Shabbona Lake, DeKalb Co.

319

Siloam Springs Lake, Adams Co.

Silver Lake, DuPage Co.

Silver Springs Lakes, Kendall Co.

Skokie Lagoons, Cook Co.

190

Spring Creek Reservoir, DuPage Co.

Spring Lake, McDonough Co.

277

Spring Lake (North), Tazewell Co.

578

Spring Lake (South), Tazewell Co.

610

Tampier Lake, Cook Co.

160

Ten Mile Creek Lake, Jefferson/Hamilton Cos.

200

Turner Lake, Lake Co.

Walnut Point Lake, Douglas Co.

Wampum Lake, Cook Co.

Washington County Lake, Washington Co.

247

Weldon Springs Lake, Dewitt Co.

Whalon Lake, Will Co.

Wolf Lake, Cook Co.

391

Woodford County Conservation
Area Lakes, Woodford Co.

2,790

SPECIAL REGULATIONS: Those lakes marked with an (X) in the Special Regulations column above have regulations which differ from the statewide regulations. Please check the Site Specific Regulations section of this publication or as posted at each lake where applicable. All regulations and activities are subject to change.

*Lakes with a number listed in the 'motors' column have a h.p. limit of the size listed; X = motors of any size allowed, No Wake for larger motors, size posted at each site; O =no outboard motors allowed; E = electric motors only, B = Electric motors only except for Monster, Eagle, & Ponderosa Lakes where outboards are allowed operated at No Wake; NW = motors of any size allowed operating at No Wake speed; A = contact site for more information. P = Picnic Area Only

ZM - Zebra mussels have been found in these waters.

DA - Some disabled accessible fishing facilities present.

TOURNAMENT FISHING PERMIT

A Fishing Tournament Permit issued by the Department of Natural Resources is required for any fishing tournament event. This includes Hook and Line Fishing Tournaments and Bowfishing Tournaments that are held in any of the waters listed in Section 810.45, Section 810.15(d); and in any public owned or Department managed lake, river, or stream in Illinois. Failure to obtain a Fishing Tournament Permit or comply with the following rules is a violation of Section 20-35 of the Fish and Aquatic Life Code.

Fishing Tournament – an organized event, other than a fishing derby, where:

1) the event is sponsored or promoted by an individual or organization;

2) participants compete for trophies, cash, prizes, citation or other recognition for participation in the event;

3) the event is conducted during a specified time; and

4) twenty of more individuals participate in the event OR an exemption to Statewide or Site-Specific Regulations is requested.

Fishing Derby – an organized event conducted for children under the age of 16 who are attending primary school, senior citizens (65 years old and older), sport fishermen with disabilities, or other school-sanctioned groups when the principal purpose is education or enjoyment, rather than competition among sport fishermen. Fishing Tournament Permits are not required for a fishing derby.

The Fishing Tournament Permit received by the applicant serves as the IDNR Site Activity Permit for tournaments held at IDNR sites.

For events held at State sites, the tournament director or organizer must submit a signed Release, Waiver, and Indemnification form, available from the Department, to the Site Superintendent prior to the event. In addition, the tournament director or organizer prior to the event must:

1) provide proof of liability insurance of $1,000,000; or

2) require each participant to sign a liability waiver, attached to the issued permit, and submit the waiver(s) to the Department site office.

A copy of the Fishing Tournament Permit must be in the possession of the director or organizer at all times during the event.

Special Length Limit and/or Daily Harvest Limit exemptions are allowed when requested on the Fishing Tournament Permit application, approved by the Department, and stated on the Fishing Tournament Permit.

Exemptions to Site-Specific Regulations will only be approved for:

1) catch, hold for weigh-in, and release Black Bass Fishing Tournaments in Lake Michigan (Illinois Portion) for which the Special Minimum Length Limit will be 14 inches and the Daily Harvest Limit will be 3 fish daily;

2) Youth-only catch, hold for weigh-in, and release Black Bass Fishing Tournaments, for which the Special Minimum Length Limit will be 12 inches and the Daily Harvest Limit will be 5 fish per boat. Youth-only is defined as 18 years old and younger;

3) catch, hold for weigh-in, and release Muskie Fishing Tournaments (all waters), provided all fish are released unharmed immediately after a quick weigh-in; and

4) catch, hold for weigh-in, and release Black Bass Fishing Tournaments in the Mississippi River (between Illinois and Iowa) and which are permitted by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, for which the special Minimum Length Limit will be 12 inches and the Daily Harvest Limit will be 5 fish per boat.

Exemptions to the Statewide Daily Harvest Limit will only be approved for fish held onboard a common release boat utilized immediately following a catch, hold for weigh-in, and release tournament.

The application for a Fishing Tournament Permit is available online at https://www.ifishillinois.org. Applications will be accepted beginning November 1st for the following calendar year. Applications must be fully completed with all requested information and received by the Department at least 30 days prior to the tournament.

The issuance or denial of a Fishing Tournament Permit by the Department shall be based on the following criteria:

1) The capability of the fishery resource to absorb the tournament with minimal impact to its well-being.

2) The need for emergency protective procedures to protect the sport fisheries resources of the State and the general health, safety and welfare of the general public as provided for in Section 810.80.

3) The criteria and evaluation required for approval of a Site Activity Permit, described in 17 Ill. Adm. Code 110.4.

Appeals of denied permits must be made in writing to the Department within 10 days after receipt of the denial. Any supplemental information requested must be included in the appeal.

Required provisions for holding, handling, and releasing fish to protect fish health in catch, hold for weigh-in, and release Hook and Line Fishing Tournaments:

1) Tournament officials must be able to certify that all boats will be required to possess a livewell (except Muskie Fishing Tournaments) fitted with a functioning aerator and water pump.

2) Individual boats and sport fishermen returning their catches of fish back to a release site must adhere to Daily Harvest Limits for the waterbody or the Special Daily Harvest Limit listed in the Fishing Tournament Permit.

3) For catch, hold for weigh-in, and release Muskie Fishing Tournaments, all boats must have a fish cradle (made from netting) to temporarily hold the muskie in the water while an official determines the length or weight of the fish prior to release. Muskies may not be transported to a weigh-in site.

4) During the months of July and August, all catch, hold for weigh-in, and release Black Bass Fishing Tournaments must be off the water between 1:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Bowfishing tournaments may be held in any of the public waters open to bowfishing listed in Section 810.45 or public waters listed in 810.15. Bowfishing tournaments are subject to the following additional rules:

1) All non-native species legal to take with bowfishing methods from waters listed in Sections 810.15 and 810.45 have an unlimited daily harvest limit however no possession of LIVE Bighead Carp, Black Carp, Grass Carp, or Silver Carp is permitted.

2) No exemptions will be granted for the wanton waste and fish abandonment provisions in Section 810.14.

Special note for Fishing Tournaments held on the Mississippi River between Illinois and Iowa – an Iowa Fishing Tournament Permit is required if also fishing Iowa waters.

For a complete listing of rules for Fishing Tournaments see https://dnr.illinois.gov/conte...

ILLINOIS SPORT FISHING AWARDS PROGRAMS (HOOK AND LINE OR BOWFISHING)

The Division of Fisheries offers several angler recognition awards for fish caught in Illinois waters either by hook and line or by bow and arrow.

First Fish, Big Fish, and Master Angler Awards are available at https://www.ifishillinois.org. They may be downloaded and printed from a personal computer.

Completed applications for either Hook and Line or Bow and Arrow State Record Fish awards must be sent to DNR Havana Field Headquarters, Attn: Record Fish, 700 S. 10th Street, Havana, IL 62644. State Record Fish Awards are sent to anglers at the end of the fishing season.

ILLINOIS SPORT FISHING AWARDS PROGRAMS (HOOK AND LINE OR BOWFISHING)

The Division of Fisheries offers several angler recognition awards for fish caught in Illinois waters either by hook and line or by bow and arrow.

First Fish, Big Fish, and Master Angler Awards are available at https://www.ifishillinois.org. They may be downloaded and printed from a personal computer.

FISH KILLS IN ILLINOIS LAKES AND PONDS

Weather patterns, water temperature, depth, density of aquatic plants and algae, naturally occurring viruses or bacteria or a combination can influence a fish kill. Prolonged cloudy weather, drought conditions, overcrowded fish populations, excessive algal or other plant growths and high water temperatures are the most common factors that trigger fish kills. Call your local District Fisheries Biologist listed or on IFISHILLINOIS.ORG to discuss what steps to take after a fish kill in your pond or lake and to learn what you can do help your lake or pond avoid fish kills in the future.

STURGEON IN ILLINOIS WATERS

Did you know there are three species of sturgeon in waters of Illinois? With a maximum age of 150 years, the state-endangered Lake Sturgeon is the largest of the three species growing as large as 8 feet long and 300 pounds! Lake Sturgeon are being caught more frequently by Illinois’ anglers as a result of state and federal recovery efforts. Lake Sturgeon are a protected species and MUST BE RELEASED IMMEDIATELY.

The state and federally-endangered Pallid Sturgeon can live over 40 years and reach a size of 5 feet long and 65 pounds. Pallid Sturgeon are a protected species and MUST BE RELEASED IMMEDIATELY.

Shovelnose Sturgeon is the smallest of the three species, living over 20 years and rarely reach sizes over 30 inches and 5 pounds. Shovelnose Sturgeon support sport fisheries and a regulated commercial fishery in designated waters of Illinois.

Pallid Sturgeon, Shovelnose Sturgeon and their hybrids can be difficult to identify.

Pallid Sturgeon, Shovelnose Sturgeon Identification

ILLINOIS LAKE STURGEON RECOVERY PROGRAM

Lake Sturgeon are a State-endangered fish species native to the Mississippi River and its tributaries. Lake Sturgeon are currently under review for potential federal listing by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). The Lake Sturgeon is endangered in Illinois mainly due to the inability of the fish to reach upstream spawning areas because of the construction of dams and the destruction of spawning areas through channelization, siltation, impoundment and pollution. Excessive fishing in the late 1800s and early 1900s also contributed to the problem. Recovery and management of Lake Sturgeon is a complex, long-term effort, requiring basin-wide support from resource managers, hatchery staff, researchers, anglers, and conservation leaders; however, with committed efforts this resource may be able to flourish for future generations. In June 2023, the Missouri Department of Conservation offered the Illinois Department of Natural Resources - Division of Fisheries a unique opportunity to acquire 11,000 Mississippi-strain juvenile Lake Sturgeon from the USFWS Neosho National Fish Hatchery with the purpose to stock Lake Sturgeon in Illinois to aid in this basin-wide recovery program. For more information about the Lake Sturgeon Recovery Program in Illinois, visit IFISHILLINOIS.org.

CATCHABLE TROUT PROGRAM

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources reinstated its Catchable Trout Program in 1994. Various lakes and streams are annually stocked with catchable size (10-11 inches) trout in the spring or fall. To legally harvest rainbow and/or brown trout from the Catchable Trout Program sites or any inland waters of the state, licensed anglers also must have an Inland Trout Stamp. The statewide Daily Harvest Limit is five trout per angler.

At Catchable Trout Program sites, spring catchable trout opens at 5 a.m. on the first Saturday of April and fall catchable trout opens at 5 a.m. on the 3rd Saturday of October. Anglers may not harvest trout during the closed periods of March 15 until the spring opener or during October 1 until the fall opener. Anglers may utilize these waters for other species during the closed periods. The closed periods have been established to accommodate the stockings and let stocked fish acclimate prior to the opening dates. The stocked trout can overwinter at some sites and anglers may have the opportunity to harvest trout throughout the year, except for during the closed periods.

Select Catchable Trout Program locations are stocked early to provide an early catch and release trout season that begins 2 weeks prior to the regular opening dates (see www.ifishillinois.org for locations). The early catch and release season is also listed for these select waters in the Site Specific Sportfishing Regulations portion of this regulation digest. Anglers must immediately release any trout caught during the early catch and release trout seasons.

Individuals wanting more information about the catchable trout program can contact the Department of Natural Resources, Division of Fisheries, One Natural Resources Way, Springfield, IL 62702-1271; phone 217/782-6424, TDD 217/782-9175. Anglers wanting more information about site regulations, access areas or boat rentals should contact individual sites or visit the “I Fish Illinois” website: <a href="http://www.ifishillinois.org.

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FISH KILLS IN ILLINOIS LAKES AND PONDS

The sudden appearance of dead fish causes considerable concern for lake or pond owners. The first reaction to the discovery of dead fish is to suspect pollution or poisoning of the water body. However, most fish kills result from natural occurrences, although the frequency and severity are occasionally influenced by humans. Few fish kill calls reported to IDNR are caused from spills or illegal dumping of toxic substances. Most fish kills occur when oxygen in the water drops to low levels that are not suitable for fish survival. Weather patterns, water temperature, depth, density of aquatic plants and algae, naturally occurring viruses or bacteria or a combination can influence a fish kill. Prolonged cloudy weather, drought conditions, overcrowded fish populations, excessive algal or other plant growths and high water temperatures are the most common factors that trigger fish kills. Contact your local District Fisheries Biologist (https://www.ifishillinois.org/...) to discuss what steps to take after a fish kill in your pond or lake and to learn what you can do help your lake or pond avoid fish kills in the future.

AQUATIC NUISANCE SPECIES

Help Protect Your Fishing!

Many aquatic nuisance species (ANS), such as zebra mussels and Asian Carp, have invaded lakes and rivers in Illinois.

These non-native species can negatively impact fishing and other types of water recreation.

For More Information…

On ANS: contact Illinois-Indiana Sea Grant at (217) 333-6444 or visit <a href="

On harvesting, cleaning, and cooking Asian Carp: https://iiseagrant.org/new-iis...

On recognizing and identifying Asian Carp: https://iiseagrant.org/help-id...

On recognizing and identifying Hydrilla: https://iiseagrant.org/species...

Effective January 1, 2013, the Illinois Boat Registration and Safety Act has been amended to prevent the spread of invasive aquatic plants and animals by boats, trailers and vehicles. It is now illegal to enter OR leave a waterbody with aquatic plants and animals attached to your boat or trailer. Travel on Illinois highways with aquatic plants or animals attached is also prohibited. Always Remove, Drain, and Dry to comply with the new law!

Bighead and Silver Carp Watch

Bighead and Silver Carp (Asian Carp) are invasive fish spreading within the Mississippi River and Great Lakes regions causing harm to humans, native fish and wildlife. Both species have low-set eyes and a large, upturned mouth, and may grow to be more than 60 lbs. and 4 ft.

You can help!

• Report new sightings – note exact location, take a photo, freeze specimen in a sealed plastic bag and call 1-877-STOP-ANS (1-877-786-7267).

• Harvest bait only from uninfested waters.

• Dispose of bait in the trash.

• Know the rules – release of live Asian Carp is prohibited in Illinois.

• Harvest and eat these tasty fish to help reduce their numbers.

Hydrilla WATCH

Hydrilla is a non-native plant invading and causing harm to waters in nearby states. It forms thick, submersed mats that hinder fishing and boating, and harm fish and wildlife. Hydrilla looks similar to native elodea, which is found in many Illinois lakes and rivers. However, Hydrilla has whorls of 4 or more spear-shapeda leaves around the stem (native = 2-3), leaves with coarse teetha along the edges (native = no teeth), and bulb-like tubersb in the soil (native = no tubers).

You can help!

Early detection of new populations of Hydrilla may limit the spread and allow for its removal. Report new sightings of this plant – call 1-877-STOP-ANS (1-877-786-7267).

URBAN FISHING PROGRAM

WHO?

For children primarily but sport fishermen of all ages can join in the fun.

WHAT?

Conservation oriented educational fishing clinics free of charge.

WHERE?

Clinics are held at various sites in Chicago, Peoria, Alton, Bloomington, Champaign, East St. Louis, Carbondale, Mt. Vernon, Springfield, Centralia, Decatur, and Urbana.

WHEN?

Fishing clinics are held Monday through Friday, twice daily from the 1st week

of June through August.

WHY?

The purpose of these clinics is to teach sport fishing ethics, fish ecology, fish identification, fishing techniques, and the proper care/preparation of caught fish.

For more information call:

Chicago & Northeastern Illinois - (847) 294-4137

Northwestern Illinois - (815) 625-2903

Central Illinois - (217) 784-4730

Southern Illinois - (618) 786-3323

The Illinois Urban Fishing Program was launched in 1985 in Chicago, Illinois. The program’s multiple objectives were (1) teach the sport of fishing to all age demographics, (2) enhance fishing opportunities in densely populated urban landscapes, and (3) seek to instill an appreciation and understanding of natural resources. In 1994, the program was expanded state-wide and now consists of the following three components:

1. Free summer fishing clinics that include fishing at nearby stocked ponds or lagoons

2. School fishing and non-fishing education programs

3. Fishing and education programs at Scout and 4-H camps, city and state parks, church camps, etc.

To enhance the fishing experience, channel catfish and hybrid sunfish are stocked at approximately 45 sites where fishing clinics occur. Summer fishing clinics are held by DNR staff and trained volunteers. Our network of volunteers plays a pivotal role in the success of the program and as they typically conduct over 250 fishing clinics for close to 10,000 children and adults. Fishing events outside of the summer clinics are hosted by DNR staff in addition to non-fishing Education Programs at schools and other settings during the year to teach environmental education and an appreciation for natural resources, and to promote summer fishing programs. Collectively, around 2,000 fishing and non-fishing events are conducted each year, involving nearly 100,000 participants.

The popular “Access to Fishing” rod and reel loaner program was established in 1997 under the umbrella of the Urban Fishing Program. There are over 140 “Access to Fishing” loaner sites throughout Illinois, including libraries, park district offices, state parks, and even bait shops. The rods and reels are typically borrowed roughly 14,000 times statewide by beginning anglers that may not have fishing gear. A list of Access to Fishing tackle loaner program locations can be found here: https://www.ifishillinois.org/....

ILLINOIS FISH AND YOUR HEALTH

Locally caught fish are a good source of lean protein and are often rich in other nutrients such as omega-3 fatty acids, which may reduce your risk for cardiovascular disease and are essential for childhood development. Pregnant and nursing mothers can also pass omega-3s to their infants in-utero and through breastmilk. In some Illinois waters, chemicals such as polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and methylmercury can build up in fish and can cause harm to people who eat them over extended periods of time.

Illinois issues fish advisories for these waters to help you plan what sport fish to eat and how often they can be eaten. Advisories are not intended to discourage you from eating fish but should be used as a guide to eating fish low in contaminants. You can access meal specific advice for Illinois water bodies through the interactive fish advisory map here or by using your phone to scan the QR code provided.

In addition to these advisories, a statewide methylmercury advisory is in place for women who are or could someday become pregnant, nursing mothers, and children younger than 15 years of age. The groups included in the advisory may eat up to one meal per week of predatory fish from any Illinois water body, unless special mercury advisories have been issued. Special mercury advisories are based on site-specific sampling data so they can be more restrictive than the statewide advisory. In some cases, special mercury advisories also apply to men and women beyond childbearing age.

You can reduce your exposure to chemicals in fish by varying the type of fish you eat, opting for younger, smaller fish, and following advisory recommendations for Illinois waters. You can also prepare fish in ways that reduce your exposure to PCBs and other contaminants that build up in fatty tissues of fish, such as by removing skin and fatty areas and broiling, baking, or grilling to allow fat to drip away.

These preparation methods will not reduce your exposure to methylmercury or other contaminants stored in the muscle tissue of fish. For these contaminants, the only way to reduce your exposure is by limiting the amount of contaminated fish eaten.

Illinois Water Body	Do Not Eat
Calumet River, including Cal Sag Channel, and Little Calumet River from Cal Sag Channel to the Calu- met River (PCBs)	Carp, Longer than 12”
Chicago River, North and South Branches, North Shore Channel, and Chicago Sanitary and Ship Canal (PCBs)	Carp, Longer than 12”
Des Plaines River, Lockport to Kankakee (PCBs)	Carp, Longer than 18”
Galena River (PCBs)	Carp, Longer than 24”
Herrin Lake #1 (PCBs)	Carp, all sizes
Lake DePue (PCBs)	Channel Catfish, Longer than24”
Lake Michigan (PCBs)	Channel Catfish, All sizes Lake Trout, Longerthan 30”
Lincoln Trail Lake (Hg)	Largemouth Bass, 14” or Longer
Midlothian Reservoir (PCBs)	Carp, Longer than 20”
Mill Creek Lake (Hg)	Largemouth Bass, 19” or Longer

POINT SYSTEM FOR REVOCATIONS/SUSPENSIONS

APPLICATION WITHIN ACTS

The point system applies to revocations/ suspensions authorized under the following conservation laws:
Fish and Aquatic Life Code
(515 ILCS 5)
Wildlife Code
(520 ILCS 5)
Endangered Species Protection Act
(520 ILCS 10)
Timber Buyers Licensing Act
(225 ILCS 735)
Ginseng Harvesting Act
(525 ILCS 20)
or any similar federal statutes or rules.

POINTS

Each time a person is found guilty by a circuit court of the State of Illinois (including supervision or conditional discharge) or by a U.S. District Court in an Illinois District, the specific number of points assigned to such violation shall be charged against that person.

Petty Offense = 3 points
Class C Misdemeanor = 6 points
Class B Misdemeanor = 9 points
Class A Misdemeanor = 12 points
Class 4 Felony = 24 points
Class 3 Felony or higher = 60 points
Any violation committed during a period of suspension = 60 points.

GROUPS

Group A - Wildlife Code, Endangered Species Protection Act (Wildlife) and Federal Offenses (Wildlife)
Group B - Fish and Aquatic Life Code, Endangered Species Protection Act (Aquatic Life) and Federal Offenses (Aquatic Life)
Group C - Timber Buyers Licensing Act
Group D - Ginseng Harvesting Act, Endangered Species Protection Act (Plants) and Federal Offenses (Plants)

TYPES OF OFFENSES

Type I Offenses = those offenses related to commercial/business activities covered under the Timber Buyer, Taxidermist, Aquaculture, Fish Dealer, Minnow Dealer, Mussel Dealer, Game and Game Bird Breeder, Wild Game Food Dealer, Fur Bearing Animal Breeder, Fur Tanner or Migratory Waterfowl Hunting Area licenses and permits

Type II Offenses = All other offenses related to activities covered under licenses and permits. (Example: hunting, trapping, fishing, etc.)

COMPUTATION OF SUSPENSION PERIODS

For Type I Offenses, any person who, within an 18 month period, accumulates 13 or more points in a single group shall have all licenses, permits and stamps relevant to engage in the activity revoked, and the person’s privilege to engage in the activity shall be suspended for a period of time that equals one month for each point accumulated. All accumulated points shall remain in effect for 18 months from the date of arrest that resulted in the point accumulation and shall not be removed or reduced by a period of suspension. Any second or subsequent suspension imposed shall be served consecutively to any earlier suspension.

For Type II Offenses, any person who, within a 36 month period accumulates 13 or more points in a single group shall have all licenses, permits and stamps relevant to that type and group revoked, and the person’s privilege to engage in the activity covered by the type and group shall be suspended for a period of time that equals one month for each point accumulated. All accumulated points shall remain in effect for 36 months from the date of arrest that resulted in the point accumulation and shall not be removed or reduced by a period of suspension. Any second or subsequent suspension imposed shall be served consecutively to any earlier suspension.

SINGLE INCIDENT RULE

The Single Incident Rule shall not be applied in any cases where the highest level violation is a Class A Misdemeanor or higher (12 points or greater) or in cases where violations occurred while the individual was suspended.

In the event that multiple findings of guilt are entered against an individual arising out of a single incident or act, full points shall be assessed only for the finding of guilt with the highest point level with additional points being assessed for the remaining findings of guilt as follows:

Petty Offense = 1 point
Class C Misdemeanor = 2 points
Class B Misdemeanor = 3 points

POINT SYSTEM FOR REVOCATIONS/SUSPENSIONS

EXAMPLES:

A) Type I - Findings of Guilt for Separate Incidents: A person found guilty of violations of no taxidermy license and failure to keep proper records (both Class B Misdemeanors, 9 points each) occurring on different dates is assessed the full 18 points, and revocation of taxidermy license and suspension of taxidermy privileges only is imposed for a period of 18 months.

B) Type I - Findings of Guilt for a Single Incident: A person found guilty of the same violations as A) above (2 Class B Misdemeanors) arising out of a single incident has no revocation/suspension imposed, with 12 points assessed (9+3).

C) Type II - Findings of Guilt for Separate Incidents: A person found guilty of unlawful possession of freshly killed Whitetail deer during closed season (Class A Misdemeanor - 12 points) and taking an over limit of quail (Petty Offense - 3 points) has his/her hunting license, trapping license, migratory waterfowl stamp, habitat stamp, deer/turkey permits, etc. revoked, and Type II privileges suspended in Group A for a period of 15 months.

D) Type II - Findings of Guilt for a Single Incident

1) A person found guilty of violations of taking game birds with a rifle and no hunting license (Class A Misdemeanor and Petty Offense) arising out of a single incident is assessed 15 points and suspension imposed as described in C) above. The Single Incident Rule does not apply to cases where the highest level violation is a Class A Misdemeanor or higher.

2) A person found guilty of violations of taking deer without a permit and no hunting license (Class B Misdemeanor and Petty Offense) arising out of a single incident has no revocation/suspension imposed, with 10 points assessed (9 + 1).

E) Imposition of Subsequent Suspensions

1) The person in C) above completes the 15 month suspension, and two months later (less than 36 months from the date of the first violation) again unlawfully possesses a freshly killed Whitetail deer during closed season and is found guilty (12 points). This person’s licenses are again revoked and privileges suspended for a period of 27 months (15 + 12).

2) The person in C) above is found guilty of a violation under the Wildlife Code that occurred during the time that his/her privileges were suspended - 60 additional points are assessed and a second suspension is imposed, to run consecutively after the first suspension (15 + 60 = 75 months total).

ADMINISTRATIVE ACTIONS AND ADDITIONAL PROVISIONS

The Department of Natural Resources may also hold an administrative hearing to revoke licenses/suspend privileges in certain egregious cases, wherein a person has had a finding of guilt (including supervision or conditional discharge) in a circuit court of the State of Illinois or by a U.S. District Court in an Illinois District, reGardless of whether or not sufficient points for suspension have been reached.

In addition, the Illinois Fish and Aquatic Life Code and Wildlife Code provisions reGarding the revocation of licenses/permits and suspension of privileges also include the following: Any person whose license or permit has been revoked or his/her privileges suspended may not, during the period of revocation/suspension 1) be in the company of any person engaged in the activity covered by the revocation/suspension, or; 2) serve as a guide, outfitter or facilitator for any person who is engaged or prepared to engage in the activity covered by the revocation/suspension, until such time as the period of revocation/suspension is completed and the appropriate licenses/permits have been obtained.

REVOCATIONS/SUSPENSIONS IN OTHER STATES AND CANADA

It shall be unlawful for any person to be issued or obtain an Illinois license or permit or while in Illinois, engaged in any activity regulated by the Illinois Fish and Aquatic Life Code or Wildlife Code during the time that person’s privileges to engage in the same or similar activitiesare suspended or revoked by another state, by a federal agency or by a province of Canada.

PENALTIES FOR VIOLATIONS OF REVOCATIONS/SUSPENSIONS/DENIAL OF PRIVILEGE

Persons who violate the prohibitions of their revocation/suspension/denial of privileges shall be guilty of a Class A Misdemeanor with penalties of up to 364 days jail time and up to $2500.00 in fines.

BOUNDARY RIVERS SPORT FISHING

Illinois-Iowa

Officers of Illinois and Iowa will recognize and accept valid sport fishing licenses of either state when legally possessed and used by hook-and-line sport fishermen on the Mississippi River proper forming a common boundary between Illinois and Iowa, including its backwater lakes and sloughs contiguous with the flow of waters in the main channel; provided that you do not fish from or attach any device or equipment to the main bank of the Mississippi under the jurisdiction of the state where you are not licensed to fish. You can not fish in any tributaries of the opposite state. You must conform to the regulations of the state in which you are fishing unless the regulations of your licensing state are more restrictive, then you must conform with the more restrictive regulations. The center of the navigation channel is the boundary between Illinois and Iowa. Tournaments fishing Iowa waters must have an Iowa fishing tournament permit, even if launching from the Illinois side of the river.

Illinois-Missouri

Officers of Illinois and Missouri will recognize and accept valid sport fishing licenses of either state when legally possessed and used in the Mississippi River and its backwaters within the boundary of Missouri adjacent to the state of Illinois. Persons licensed in only one state may also fish in the other state’s portion of any oxbow lakes through which the Illinois-Missouri boundary passes, and may fish from or attach any device or equipment to land under the jurisdiction of the other state. Persons licensed in only one state may not fish in tributaries of the Mississippi in the other state. Sport fishermen shall comply with the regulations of the state in whose waters they are fishing unless the regulations of their licensing state are more restrictive, then must comply with the more restrictive regulations. The center of the navigation channel is considered the boundary between Illinois and Missouri, except in situations where it is clearly shown to be elsewhere.

Illinois-Kentucky

Each state will recognize the sport fishing licenses and appropriate permits of the other state on the main stem and from the banks of the Ohio River, excluding embayments and tributaries where the Ohio River forms the state boundary. Embayments and tributaries shall be defined as a straight line between opposite points where the tributary or embayment connects with the main body of the Ohio River.

The fishing regulations adopted by the state issuing a sport fishing license apply to the licenses when fishing each state’s respective waters, except that, all fishermen shall conform with the regulations of the state in which they are fishing, unless the regulations of the fishermen’s licensing state are more restrictive, then the fishermen must conform with the more restrictive regulations. The regulations of the state where the sport fishing is occurring apply, if the licensee is fishing from the bank.

Wildlife law enforcement officials of either state shall have the right to inspect the licenses, harvest limits, creel limits, and equipment of any person on the Ohio River subject to the laws of either state.

Officers of Illinois and Kentucky will recognize and accept valid sport fishing licenses of either state when legally possessed and used on the main stem of the Ohio River, excluding embayments and tributaries.

Illinois-Indiana

Officers of Illinois and Indiana will recognize and accept valid sport fishing licenses of either state when legally possessed and used on the Wabash River forming a common boundary between Illinois and Indiana. Sport fishermen shall not fish on water beyond the natural and ordinary river banks of the state in which they are not licensed to fish. Sport fishermen shall not fish from land attached to or taxed by the state in which they are not licensed or fish in tributaries, bayous, or backwaters of the state. Sport fishermen must abide by the laws of the state in which they are fishing.

I FISH ILLINOIS WEBSITE

IFishIllinois.org is the one-stop, go-to website for all sport fishermen fishing in Illinois waters!

From fishing reports to lake profile summaries to IDNR press releases and opening notices, ifishillinois.org has everything you need for a successful day out fishing on Illinois many waterbodies, including:

Fishing Reports
Individual Lake Maps
Information for over 250 lakes, streams and rivers in Illinois
Fishing Regulations
Angling Tips
Illinois Sportfish Species Information
Taking Kids Fishing
Tournaments Application Information
Locate your county biologist
Tips for stocking your pond
Angling awards and Fishing Records
Catch-and-release guidelines
Opening Day Notices
IDNR Press Releases

Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook and Twitter for all the latest information about Illinois angling!

VHS REGULATIONS

Viral Hemorrhagic Septicemia (VHS) is a disease of fish caused by a virus previously unidentified in the Midwest. While it does not affect humans, VHS can kill a substantial number of fish and has been spreading throughout the Great Lakes states.76

Regulations have been implemented to slow the spread of this dangerous aquatic virus in Illinois. Sport fishing and boating are both very popular and important to the Illinois economy. The cooperation of anglers and boaters is essential in combating VHS.

The new regulations being implemented by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) regarding VHS that affect recreational sport fishermen and boaters include:

Eliminating natural water from all equipment when leaving a body of water.
Emptying and draining all bait buckets, live wells, bait wells, bilges, etc. or any other compartment capable of holding natural waters when leaving a body of water.
Do not remove live VHS-susceptible species (see below) from any waters. Sport fishermen may harvest VHS-susceptible species, but may not transport those fish live from the waters where caught.
Use of wild-trapped or caught fishes from within the state as bait will be restricted to the waters where legally captured.

Black crappie

Bluegill

Bluntnose minnow

Brown bullhead

Brown trout

Burbot

Channel catfish

Chinook salmon

Emerald shiner

Freshwater drum

Gizzard shad

Hybrid (Tiger) muskie

Lake whitefish

Largemouth bass

Muskellunge

Shorthead redhorse

Northern Pike

Pumpkinseed

Rainbow trout

Rock bass

Round goby

Silver redhorse

Smallmouth bass

Spottail shiner

Trout-Perch

Walleye

White bass

White perch

Yellow perch

While VHS is not known to be a threat to human health, sport fishermen are still advised to wash their hands after handling fish and to cook thoroughly any fish they plan to eat. If handling dead fish or fish that appear to be diseased, protective gloves should be worn.

LEAD TACKLE ADVISORY

The tackle industry, recognizing a growing awareness and concern about lead in the environment, has begun to create steel, tin, bismuth, or plastic sinkers. Consider using non-lead tackle when you go fishing.

Here’s what you can do to help:

Ask local sporting good stores to stock non-lead fishing tackle.
Spread the word by telling other sport fishermen about the problem.
Dispose of old lead sinkers and jigs properly by locating a drop-off location.

MONOFILAMENT ADVISORY

Monofilament Can Kill if not used or disposed of properly!

The Illinois DNR would like to remind all sport fishermen that the improper use and disposal of fishing line (a.k.a. monofilament) can have a dramatic impact on our wildlife. In addition to being an eye-sore along our waterways, many shore birds, migratory birds, waterfowl, and raptors have become entangled in monofilament and died.

HOW ANIMALS COME IN CONTACT WITH MONOFILAMENTThere are a variety of ways animals encounter monofilament. Shore birds and waterfowl have been entangled in the litter while wading or swimming. Raptors and fish-eating waterfowl have ingested hooks and monofilament from fish that broke the line. Some migratory birds have used it as nesting material.

Starvation is the most common demise for animals encountering monofilament. The line wraps around the neck or accumulates in the stomach, preventing the ingestion of food. It can also immobilize the animals by wrapping around the legs, or securing them to stationary objects.

HOW YOU CAN HELP

Help from all anglers is needed to reduce the amount of fishing line in the environment. By using common sense and respecting our waterways, we can all help to reduce the risk of wildlife related mortalities due to monofilament.

Properly dispose of unused monofilament in trash containers.
Use the appropriate test line for the desired fish and fishing technique.
Replace monofilament yearly. Replacing your monofilament annually can reduce the chance of breaking the line.
Take the initiative while enjoying Illinois’ waters. Help keep Illinois’ waterways clean by picking-up discarded monofilament and tackle along the shores. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.