Chicago chef to highlight culinary take on Copi at Illinois State Fair

Springfield, Ill. — Chicago Chef Maurice Jackson will host visitors to this year’s Illinois State Fair with his culinary take on Copi, the name given to invasive carp via DNR’s rebranding campaign.

Jackson has a Copi booth in the popular Conservation World during the 2025 Illinois State Fair, which runs through Aug. 17.

Jackson of Chef Life 19 and Bar 19 Restaurant in Chicago’s Wrigleyville neighborhood is the reigning WingOut chicken wing contest champion and an enthusiastic supporter of cooking Copi.

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“We’re delighted to host Chef Maurice and his elevated take on Copi in Conservation World this year,” said DNR Director Natalie Phelps Finnie. “There continues to be a lot of curiosity about the fish and how to cook with it, and we’re looking forward to fairgoers having a chance to learn how light, delicious and versatile it is.”

Conservation World will again host fans of wildlife, nature and all aspects of the state’s outdoors during the State Fair. Located in the northwest corner of the fairgrounds, the 30-acre area is open 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily.

Visitors can catch a fish, practice their archery and BB shooting skills, explore outdoor recreational opportunities available at Illinois state parks, rock climb, touch a conservation police truck, talk with IDNR wildlife biologists, purchase hunting and fishing licenses, and more.