Regulation Information

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 Boat Registration and Safety Act Information can be found at: https://dnr.illinois.gov/conte...

How To Register Or Renew Your Boat

Boat registration (new registration and renewal) must be completed through the ExploreMoreIL system at https://www.exploremoreil.com/. To learn more about boat registration requirements, please visit https://dnr.illinois.gov/boati.... If you have any questions regarding registration and titling please call 217-557-0180 or 1-800-382-1696

Boating Safety Education

Boat safety education is a positive move toward a safe and enjoyable boating future. Completing a boat safety course also may lower your insurance cost. It is unlawful for a person born on or after January 1, 1998 to operate a motorboat with over 10 horse 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. To enroll in an online Boat Safety Course or for information on in- person class locations call: 1-800-832-2599, or visit: https://dnr.illinois.gov/boati...

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://dnr.illinois.gov/closu...

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 equity to 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 or waterbody. 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. This digest is not a legal notice or a complete collection of fishing regulations and laws. It is a condensed guide issued for anglers’ convenience. See TITLE 17: CONSERVATION for more details: http://www.ilga.gov/commission....

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, 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 listed aquatic life species are considered approved for aquaculture, transportation, stocking, importation and/or possession in the State of Illinois. The Aquatic Life Approved Species List can be found at: https://www.ifishillinois.org.

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, and Common Carp Cyprinus carpio.

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 Hypophthalmichthys nobilis, Black Carp Mylopharyngodon piceus, Grass Carp Ctenopharyngodon idella, and Silver Carp Hypophthalmichthys 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 not be 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 TakingAquatic life listed in subsection (b) 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 for any person to take or attempt to take aquatic life as provided in subsection (b) along, upon, across, or from any public right-of-way or highway in this State.[ILCS 5/10-110 (b)]

b) SpeciesOnly species listed may be taken by bowfishing and other legal methods and in accordance with length limits and daily 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 Spearfishing Methods

1) All public site specific waters as noted in Section 810.45.

2) All public rivers and streams noted in 17 Ill. Adm. Code 3704. Appendix A, except as restricted by subsections (d)(2)(A) through (G).

A) Mississippi River connected public (accessible by boat during normal flows or stages) backwaters, including that portion of the Kaskaskia River below the navigation lock and dam, except:

i) Quincy Bay, including Quincy Bay Waterfowl Management Area.

ii) All U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service National Wildlife Refuge backwaters

B) Illinois River and connected public (acces

sible by boat during normal flows or stages) backwaters from Route 89 highway bridge downstream, except for:

i) U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service National Wildlife Refuge waters.

ii) Donnelley/DePue State Fish and Wildlife Area

iii) Rice Lake Complex, including all of Big Lake.

iv) Meredosia Lake in Cass and Morgan Counties during the central zone duck season.

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

C) Sangamon River, downstream of State Route 48 southwest of Decatur to mouth in Cass County.

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

E) Big Muddy River, south of State Route 14 highway bridge in Franklin County to mouth in Jackson County.

F) Saline River in Gallatin and Saline Counties.

G) Ohio River, except for:

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

ii) Smithland Dam downstream to a line perpendicular to the end of the outer lock wall.

iii) Within 50 yards of the mouth of any tributary or stream.

3) Additional waters (accessible by boat during normal flows or stages), except as restricted in subsections (d)(3)(A) through (C).

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

B) Skillet Fork River.

C) 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.

e) Catfish species (Family Ictaluridae) may be taken by bowfishing methods only in the following waters, except as restricted in subsection (e)(1) through (12).

1) Mississippi River connected public (accessible by boat during normal flows or stages) 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) All U.S. Fish and Wildlife National Wildlife Refuge backwaters.

2) Illinois River and connected public (accessible by boat during normal flows or stages) backwaters from Route 89 highway bridge downstream, except:

A) U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service National Wildlife Refuge waters.

B) Donnelley/DePue State Fish and Wildlife Area.

C) Rice Lake Complex, including all of Big Lake.

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

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

3) Sangamon River, downstream of State Route 48 southwest of Decatur to mouth in Cass County.

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

5) Big Muddy River, south of State Route 14 highway bridge in Franklin County to mouth in Jackson County.

6) Saline River in Gallatin and Saline Counties.

7) Ohio River, except:

A) Olmstead 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.

C) Within 50 yards of the mouth of any tributary or stream.

8) Embarras River, except from Route 130 in Coles County upstream to the dam, and except Charleston Side Channel Lake.

9) Skillet Fork River.

10) 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.

11) Wabash River.

12) Little Wabash River.

13) South Fork of the Sangamon River from State Highway 48 bridge downstream to the Sangamon River in Christian and Sangamon Counties.

Catch And Release Fishing

Waterbodies may be listed as Catch and Release Fishing Only for all species, individual fish species, or may have special Catch and Release Only seasons. Catch and Release Fishing Only means no harvest of fish listed as catch and release is permitted. Caught fish must be immediately returned to the same water unharmed.

Cleaning Fish On The Water

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 for which length and harvest 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://www.ifishillinois.org

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 have resided 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 https://www.ifishillinois.org

Crayfish

It is a violation of state law to import, possess, 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 spp. 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 bona fide catch, hold for weigh-in, 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. 11 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 Common 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 dressed (filleted or head and tail removed) fish may be possessed on any waters to which length or harvest limits are applicable.

Endangered And Threatened 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, 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

On June 13, 14, 15, and 16, 2025, 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 daily harvest and length limits are followed.

Harvesting Fish On Private Property

Statewide daily harvest and length limits do not apply to a person fishing in waters wholly within their 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. Anglers at sites with a Two Pole and Line Fishing Only restriction may use a maximum of two poles or tip-ups. 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 tip-ups 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 of any kind; air gun; gas gun; blow 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 (17 Ill. Adm. Code, Part 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 Ruff
• 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. For example, a Round Goby caught on pole and line can be immediately returned to the waters where taken. A Silver 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 Part 805, please visit https://www.ilga.gov/commissio...;

For more information on aquatic nuisance species, contact the IDNR Aquatic Nuisance Species Program by phone at 217-785-8772 or by email at [email protected].

Measuring Fish

Fish length is measured from the tip of the snout to the end of the tail while the fish is laid flat on a ruler, with the mouth of the fish closed and the tail lobes pressed together, except for Paddlefish and Sturgeon. Paddlefish length is measured from the eye to the fork of the tail. Sturgeon length is measured from the tip of the snout to the fork of the tail.

Minimum Length Limit

Regardless of where taken, no fish less than the specified minimum length limit shall be possessed while taking from, or on, any waters to which length limits apply.

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. Anglers are often the first to observe water pollution and their assistance is invited in reporting these instances to District and Regional Fisheries Biologists (see inside cover for contact information), 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 the Fish and Aquatic Life Code.

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.

Public Waters

Public Waters are defined in 17 Ill. Adm. Code, Section 3704 as all lakes, rivers, streams and waterways which are or were navigable and are open or dedicated to public use including all bayous, sloughs, backwaters and submerged lands connected by water to the main channel or body of water during normal flows or stages. A listing of Public Waters can be found in in 17 Ill. Adm. Code, Section 3704, Appendix A or at https://dnr.illinois.gov/water...

Purple Paint Law

The State of Illinois has implemented the Purple Paint Law providing landowners or lessees the option to use purple paint in conjunction with no trespassing signs to mark property boundaries.

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.

Seasons

Sport fishing is open year-round, except as noted in the Site-Specific Regulations section. Smelt, turtles and frogs, and snagging also have seasons (see relevant sections).

Smelt

A sport fishing license entitles the angler to harvest Smelt. Waters of Lake Michigan comprise Illinois’ Smelt fishery. The sport fishing season for Smelt is from March 1 through April 30 (check local seasonal regulations for Smelt fishing on Chicago Park District properties). 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 also may be used to take 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 treble hook 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:

• Bighead Carp (no live possession) – no harvest limit
• Black Carp (no live possession) – no harvest limit
• Bowfin – no harvest limit
• Buffalo – no harvest limit
• Carpsuckers – no harvest limit
• Common Carp – no harvest limit
• Freshwater Drum – no harvest limit
• Gizzard Shad – no harvest limit
• Grass Carp (no live possession) – no harvest limit
• Longnose Gar – no harvest limit
• Paddlefish – 2 Fish Daily Harvest Limit
• Salmon (Coho and Chinook only) – 5 Fish, in the aggregate, Daily Harvest Limit
• Shortnose Gar – no harvest limit
• Silver Carp (no live possession) – no harvest limit
• Suckers – no harvest limit

2) Disposition of Snagged Fish.

A) Every Salmon 10 inches in total length or longer snagged must be taken into immediate possession and included in the daily harvest limit.

B) Every Paddlefish 33 inches eye-fork length or less landed while fishing on the Mississippi River between Illinois and Iowa must be taken into immediate possession and included in the daily harvest limit. Every Paddlefish greater than 33 inches eye-fork length must be immediately returned to the water.

C) Paddlefish 24 inches eye-fork length or longer landed while fishing on the Mississippi River between Illinois and Missouri which are immediately returned to the water do not count toward the daily harvest limit. Paddlefish 24 inches eye-fork length or longer landed and not immediately returned to the water are considered taken into possession and must be counted toward the daily harvest limit. Every Paddlefish less than 24 inches eye-fork length must be immediately returned to the water.

D) Once the daily harvest limit of Salmon or Paddlefish has been reached, snagging must cease.

E) All snagged fish taken into possession must be removed from the area which they are taken and disposed of properly, in accordance with Section 5-5 of the Fish and Aquatic Life Code (515 ILCS 5/5-5).

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 roundwithin a 300 yard downstream limit.

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).

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 fishing licenses. 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)

Any individual possessing a valid sport fishing license may take aquatic life by hand, or may use pole and line, bank pole and line, throw line, trotline, buoyed ganging devices, or other legal devices not exceeding 50 hooks in the aggregate, however, any individual at any one time is allowed to use under his or her immediate control only 2 untagged sport fishing devices and any additional devices up to the aggregate of 50 hooks must be tagged with his or her name and mailing 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 and address.

Also permitted are legal-sized cast nets, shad scoops and minnow seines (see Bait Fishing, Crayfish, and Minnows). Smelt may be taken in Lake Michigan with legal size dip nets, gill nets, and seines.

Special fishing regulations at certain waterbodies prohibit the use of some devices or restrict the number of devices; please check the Site-Specific Regulations which are contained in this regulation booklet and are posted at various locations at the sites (boat ramps and site offices) where applicable.

While taking from areas designated as “Catch and Release Fishing Only”, all catch and release species must be immediately released unharmed back into the waters from which taken.

Sportfishing License

A sport fishing license entitles an angler to harvest fish, crayfish, turtles or Bullfrogs, except for endangered and threatened aquatic life, within limits denoted in the Statewide Harvest and Size Limits Table and Site Specific Regulations. It is unlawful to sell any aquatic life, or parts thereof, taken by a sport fishing license.

Stocking

Fish may be immediately released back 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 and Aquatic Life 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 Or Marked Fish

Fisheries biologists attach tags to 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.

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 is 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 aquatic life (fish, crayfish, or amphibians) as bait within the State of Illinois other than in the waters where they were legally taken.

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. In waters where there is a 2 Pole and Line Only designation, no more than two poles and lines with not more than two hooks or lures on each may be used.

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. 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 a combined total of 50 hooks and must be checked at least every 24 hours. Trotlines and other sportfishing devices left unattended must be tagged with the name and mailing address 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.

Statewide Sportfishing 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.

Frogs And Turtles

A Sport Fishing License Is Required To Harvest Reptiles And Amphibians. No Person Shall Harvest Or Possess Any Species Of Reptile Or Amphibian Listed As Endangered Or Threatened In Illinois (17 Ill. Adm. Code, Section 1010, Except As Provided By 17 Ill. Adm. Code, Section 1070). Alligator Snapping Turtle Macro- Chelys Temminckii Is Protected And May Not Be Taken By Any Sport Fishing Method.

Any Captured Reptiles Or Amphibians Which Are Not To Be Retained In The Possession Of The Captor Should Be Immediately Released At The Site Of Capture, Unless Taken With A Lethal Method (Such As Bow And Arrow, Gig, Spear, Pitchfork) Which Does Not Permit “Release With No Harm”. All Such Taken Bullfrogs And Common Snapping Turtles Must Be Kept And Counted In The Daily Harvest. No Culling Of Such Taken Species Is Permitted.

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