Illinois Fishing Reports for Rivers – July 27th, 2012

Kankakee River

River is low and wadeable. Waders and bank anglers are doing well for smallmouth and catfish. Carp anglers doing well.

Ohio River

At Smithland Pool, the river is at about normal pool and clear. Fishing traffic has been extremely light. Catfish are the best bet. Anglers are taking fair numbers of catfish at night on cut bait and nightcrawlers. Some anglers are taking good numbers of bass in Lusk Creek. Crankbaits are currently producing good catches.

Kaskaskia River

Bass, catfish and bluegill are all rated fair at Baldwin Lake. Catfish are being caught throughout the lake on cut bait. Bass action is best on the south end of the lake, particularly on crank baits. Bluegills are being caught in good numbers at the south end of the lake on wax worms.

Illinois River

At Ottawa, flathead catfish are hitting on nightcrawlers.  White bass hot on spinners and blades. Channel cats are good on cut bait and dead minnows. At Utica, white bass are behind schedule but starting to bite. Catfish good on stinkbaits and shad. At Henry, catfish are fair to good on stinkbait and shrimp. Some white bass being caught on minnows.

Des Plaines River

Catfish being caught on shrimp, cheesebaits and worms. Some bluegills being caught on worms and crickets.

Fox River

Hot weather has played havoc on fishermen. Action has been light for much of July. Catfish are biting on cut shad and worms.