Fishing Reports

Mid-winter bites depend on ice, temps, brush cover. Here’s a look at the Illinois fishing report across the state on Jan. 16, 2026.

DNR officials say before heading out for a day of ice fishing, it’s wise to check with local bait shops to make certain the spot you’ve chosen is sufficiently ice-covered and at the thickness needed

Perch fishing hot in north, bass biting in the south. Here’s a look at the Illinois fishing report on Dec. 19, 2025.

Before frigid snap, crappies and catfish were hot. Here’s a look at the Illinois fishing report on Dec. 5, 2025.

White bass, largemouths taking fall feasts. Here’s a look at the Illinois fishing report across the state on Nov. 21, 2025.

Catfish action heats up, crappie bites remain dominant. Here’s a look at the Illinois fishing report on Nov. 7, 2025.

Crappie stick to fall patterns, catfish taking surprise bites. Here’s a look at the Illinois fishing report on Oct. 24, 2025.

Walleye, sauger bites reported on rivers, bass slowing. Here’s the Illinois fishing report from across the state on Oct. 10, 2025.

Walleyes, crappies, biting heavy on minnows. Here’s a look at the Illinois fishing report from across the state on Sept. 26, 2025.