Chicago, Illinois

What's biting

• Largemouth Bass

  Where: Shallow weed beds and structure in Lake Michigan's near-shore zones, plus backwater areas of the Chicago River and Des Plaines River.

  Early fall is prime time as water cools to 24°C (75°F)—fish move shallow to feed. Work soft plastics, crankbaits, and topwater lures around submerged timber and cattail edges at dawn and dusk. Expect good action through September.

  Caution: Catch-and-release recommended in urban waters due to potential contaminants; check local fish consumption advisories.

• Smallmouth Bass

  Where: Rocky structure, drop-offs, and current breaks in the Chicago River main channel and deeper Lake Michigan zones.

  Smallmouth are more active in cooler water; target 3–6 m (10–20 ft) depths with tube jigs, crayfish patterns, and small crankbaits. Current breaks near lock systems hold concentrations.

  Caution: Same consumption advisory applies; verify regulations for slot limits and daily take.

• Channel Catfish

  Where: Deep holes, snags, and current seams in the Chicago River, Des Plaines River, and Lake Calumet.

  Still-fishing with chicken liver, cut shad, or stink baits works well in slack water. Fish dusk to dawn; catfish feed aggressively as water cools. No special tackle needed—heavy sinkers and sturdy rods suffice.

  Caution: Lake Calumet has a long history of industrial use; check fish consumption guidelines before keeping any catch.

• Crappie (Black & White)

  Where: Brush piles, fallen trees, and dock pilings in backwater areas of the Chicago River, and shallow bays of Lake Michigan.

  Crappie school in early fall; use small jigs (1/16–1/8 oz), minnows, or panfish flies near cover in 1–3 m (3–10 ft) of water. Dawn and dusk are best; overcast days improve daytime success.

  Caution: Crappie are prolific; check Illinois DNR for current daily limits and any slot restrictions.

• Common Carp

  Where: Shallow flats, weed edges, and muddy bottoms in Lake Calumet, the Chicago River, and backwater ponds.

  Carp feed heavily in fall to build reserves; use corn, dough balls, or pack baits on the bottom. Early morning and evening are productive. Sight-fishing in clear, shallow water is rewarding.

  Caution: Carp are invasive but legal to keep; no special restrictions, but verify before harvest.