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More Fishing Guides In Illinois
The Chain O' Lakes is the impoundment that was created by the daming of the Fox River flowing from the Illinois state border through the chain and heads through McHenry Illinois to the dam. Miles of river and a compilation of lakes close to Milwaukee, Madison, Chicago and Rockford makes access a breeze! The fishing on the chain is world class in regards to the amount of opportunity and angler has to succeed. The area offers local amenities with dining, shopping and lodging all nearby. We offer you a northwoods experience in the far suburbs. We will target a variety of fish depending on what is in season. From white bass to catfish, the chain offers a variety of able fare. We will be on a frozen lake in a heated fish house that is warmed before you arrive via our late model ice fishing machines. Read More
Morning or Afternoon, the 6hr charter is our most popular charter. Morning charters normally leave the dock between 4am-6am Afternoon Charters normally leave between 10am and 12pm. Read More
Head out with Josh and prepare for an action-packed day of Great Lake fishing! The massive Lake Michigan is a perfect place to get the vast experience of ocean fishing while targeting freshwater Salmon and Trout! On this 6-hour morning trip, Cpt Josh will take you into the Lake Michigan waters where you'll be going after Brown Trout, Lake Trout, Steelhead, Chinook Salmon, and Coho Salmon. Josh will take you trolling the open waters to attract these picture-worthy fish. Trolling trips are great because the boat and the knowledge of your guide take care of half the work for you. You get to sit back, relax, enjoy the breeze, and rest your arms while you wait for the reel to start screaming and your work to begin! Josh will provide all rods, reels, and tackle. All you need to bring is sunglasses, sunscreen, warm clothing, an Illinois fishing license with a Salmon stamp, any snacks or drinks you might need, and a cooler to store your catches. Josh will happily clean any keepers for an additional fee. Book your trip today and come home with some tasty fish! Read More
Head out with Josh and prepare for an action-packed evening of Great Lake fishing with a beautiful sunset view! The massive Lake Michigan is a perfect to place to get the vast experience of ocean fishing while targeting freshwater Salmon and Trout! On this 4-hour sunset trip, Travis will take you into the Lake Michigan waters where you'll be going after Brown Trout, Lake Trout, Steelhead, Chinook Salmon, and Coho Salmon. Josh will take you trolling the open waters to attract these picture-worthy fish. Trolling trips are great because the boat and the knowledge of your guide take care of half the work for you. You get to sit back, relax, enjoy the breeze, and rest your arms while you wait for the reel to start screaming and your work to begin! Josh will provide all rods, reels and tackle, and will provide live bait for an additional cost. All you need to bring is sunglasses, sunscreen, warm clothing, an Illinois fishing license with a Salmon stamp, any snacks or drinks you might need, and a cooler to store your catches. Josh will happily clean any keepers for an additional fee. Book your trip today and come home with some tasty fish! Read More
You will be fishing the Coho capital of Illinois we are also known for our Lake trout population theirs always something biting out of Waukegan that's what makes fishing from this port so exciting. 8 hour trips provide more opportunities to catch more fish! And are especially worth while on days when the fish are little further out or further up the coast and require a little bit more of a drive to get to! Read More
Head out with Josh and prepare for an action-packed day of Great Lake fishing! The massive Lake Michigan is a perfect to place to get the vast experience of ocean fishing while targeting freshwater Salmon and Trout! On this 3/4 or full-day trip, Josh will take you into the Lake Michigan waters where you'll be going after Brown Trout, Lake Trout, Steelhead, Chinook Salmon, and Coho Salmon. Josh will take you trolling the open waters to attract these picture-worthy fish. Trolling trips are great because the boat and the knowledge of your guide take care of half the work for you. You get to sit back, relax, enjoy the breeze, and rest your arms while you wait for the reel to start screaming and your work to begin! Josh will provide all rods, reels, and tackle. All you need to bring is sunglasses, sunscreen, warm clothing, an Illinois fishing license with a Salmon stamp, any snacks or drinks you might need, and a cooler to store your catches. Josh will happily clean any keepers for an additional fee. Book your trip today and come home with some tasty fish! Read More
Other Trips in Illinois
Head out with Josh and prepare for an action-packed evening of Great Lake fishing with a beautiful sunset view! The massive Lake Michigan is a perfect to place to get the vast experience of ocean fishing while targeting freshwater Salmon and Trout! On this 4-hour sunset trip, Travis will take you into the Lake Michigan waters where you'll be going after Brown Trout, Lake Trout, Steelhead, Chinook Salmon, and Coho Salmon. Josh will take you trolling the open waters to attract these picture-worthy fish. Trolling trips are great because the boat and the knowledge of your guide take care of half the work for you. You get to sit back, relax, enjoy the breeze, and rest your arms while you wait for the reel to start screaming and your work to begin! Josh will provide all rods, reels and tackle, and will provide live bait for an additional cost. All you need to bring is sunglasses, sunscreen, warm clothing, an Illinois fishing license with a Salmon stamp, any snacks or drinks you might need, and a cooler to store your catches. Josh will happily clean any keepers for an additional fee. Book your trip today and come home with some tasty fish! Read More
Head out with Josh and prepare for an action-packed day of Great Lake fishing! The massive Lake Michigan is a perfect to place to get the vast experience of ocean fishing while targeting freshwater Salmon and Trout! On this 3/4 or full-day trip, Josh will take you into the Lake Michigan waters where you'll be going after Brown Trout, Lake Trout, Steelhead, Chinook Salmon, and Coho Salmon. Josh will take you trolling the open waters to attract these picture-worthy fish. Trolling trips are great because the boat and the knowledge of your guide take care of half the work for you. You get to sit back, relax, enjoy the breeze, and rest your arms while you wait for the reel to start screaming and your work to begin! Josh will provide all rods, reels, and tackle. All you need to bring is sunglasses, sunscreen, warm clothing, an Illinois fishing license with a Salmon stamp, any snacks or drinks you might need, and a cooler to store your catches. Josh will happily clean any keepers for an additional fee. Book your trip today and come home with some tasty fish! Read More
Head out with Josh and prepare for an action-packed day of Great Lake fishing! The massive Lake Michigan is a perfect place to get the vast experience of ocean fishing while targeting freshwater Salmon and Trout! On this 6-hour morning trip, Cpt Josh will take you into the Lake Michigan waters where you'll be going after Brown Trout, Lake Trout, Steelhead, Chinook Salmon, and Coho Salmon. Josh will take you trolling the open waters to attract these picture-worthy fish. Trolling trips are great because the boat and the knowledge of your guide take care of half the work for you. You get to sit back, relax, enjoy the breeze, and rest your arms while you wait for the reel to start screaming and your work to begin! Josh will provide all rods, reels, and tackle. All you need to bring is sunglasses, sunscreen, warm clothing, an Illinois fishing license with a Salmon stamp, any snacks or drinks you might need, and a cooler to store your catches. Josh will happily clean any keepers for an additional fee. Book your trip today and come home with some tasty fish! Read More
Just north of Chicago, on the banks of Lake Michigan, lies Waukegan, IL. Join Captain Jim and set out from this quiet suburb for an action-packed adventure on Lake Michigan! You will have a chance to haul up massive Salmon and Lake Trout, which are not only fun to catch but taste delicious too. While trolling along the deep blue waters of the lake, wait for the scream of the reel and get ready to battle with your dinner! Jim's 36’ Trojan sportfisher is spacious and luxurious, and offers a comfortable ride out to the prime fishing grounds. She is powered by twin diesel engines with a total of 660 horsepower, so you'll be out there in no time. She also comes equipped with an ice box to store your catch until Captain Jim can clean and fillet it at the end of the day. Everything you need for an amazing day on the water is provided. Jim brings all equipment including rods, reels, bait, tackle, and life jackets. If you want to bring food and drinks, you’re more than welcome to. A half day on the water can feel like a long time, and you don’t want to be hungry! You should also be prepared with appropriate clothing and sun protection. Be sure to check the weather reports before your journey so you know what to wear! Read More
Did you know that the Great Lakes are home to some of the biggest freshwater Salmon and Trout in the world? These huge fish are famously delicious, but they’re also fun to catch for anglers of all experience levels. Get out on the water with Captain Jim for a family fish-whacking adventure! You can spend either a half or full day casting lines with up to 6 of your family and friends, and come home with an amazing meal to boot. Captain Jim’s 36’ Trojan sportfisher has a spacious deck and twin diesel engines with a total of 660 horsepower. The vessel cuts smoothly through the waters of the lake, so you should be trolling with the utmost comfort. Once your reel starts screaming, you better be prepared for battle! If you successfully pull in a monster, you can store it in the icebox so it stays fresh during the remainder of your voyage. Back at the dock, Captain Jim will clean and bag your catch, so you have a tasty dinner that night. Captain Jim provides all the equipment needed for a successful day of fishing, including rods, reels, bait, and tackle. If you are bringing any younger anglers, Captain Jim will bring lifejackets for them. You should bring food and drinks so you don’t get cranky throughout the day, and appropriate clothing. Other than that, Captain Jim has got you covered! Read More
The Chain O' Lakes is the impoundment that was created by the daming of the Fox River flowing from the Illinois state border through the chain and heads through McHenry Illinois to the dam. Miles of river and a compilation of lakes close to Milwaukee, Madison, Chicago and Rockford makes access a breeze! The fishing on the chain is world class in regards to the amount of opportunity and angler has to succeed. The area offers local amenities with dining, shopping and lodging all nearby. We offer you a northwoods experience in the far suburbs. We will target a variety of fish depending on what is in season. From white bass to catfish, the chain offers a variety of able fare. We will be on a frozen lake in a heated fish house that is warmed before you arrive via our late model ice fishing machines. Read More
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Everything to Know About Booking a Fishing Guide in Illinois
What are the best fishing trips in Illinois?
The best fishing trips in Illinois are:
Why should I book a fishing trip in Illinois with Captain Experiences?
Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 8 trips in Illinois, and the most popular trips in the area are Salmon & Trout fishing guided by Jim, Epic Salmon and Trout Trip guided by Jim, and Lake Michigan 4 Hour Twilight guided by Josh.
All guides on Captain Experiences are licensed, insured, and vetted by our team. You can access their reviews, click through trip photos, read bios to get to know them, and preview trip details like species, techniques, group sizes, boat specs and more.
Looking for kid friendly guides / fishing lessons in Illinois? Check out our beginner and family friendly guides in Illinois.
What types of fishing trips are common in Illinois?
Lake fishing is the most popular type of fishing in Illinois.
The most commonly sought after species in Illinois are: 1. chinook salmon, 2. coho salmon, 3. lake trout, 4. brown trout, and 5. steelhead.
The most common fishing techniques in Illinois are trolling, light tackle fishing, and artificial lure fishing but heavy tackle fishing and ice fishing are popular as well.
How much does an Illinois fishing trip cost?
Prices in Illinois can range anywhere from about $590 to $1,005, but the average price for a half day trip in Illinois is $624. The average price for a full day trip in Illinois is $875.
Is booking a fishing guide worth the money?
Hiring a guide provides a number of benefits and many choose to book a fishing guide for a combination of experience, local knowledge, convenience, and cost-effectiveness.
Working with experienced fishing guides who know the best local spots and techniques can dramatically increase your odds of a great day. Having someone who is on the water every day and knows the area like the back of their hand is going to give you the best chances of success.
Booking a guide is also more cost effective, especially if you only get out a handful of times per year. When you consider all of the costs you would incur on your own such as the price of a boat, maintenance, insurance, gas, high-quality gear and tackle, repairs, and more, you’ll find that DIY is sometimes not worth the expense.
Even if you’ve got a great setup already in your home waters, booking a guide also provides a great opportunity to experience new techniques, new locations, or even a chance at a new target species to knock off the bucket list.
What month is best for fishing in Illinois?
The most popular season for fishing in Illinois is winter, and most anglers book their trips 54 days in advance.
Do I need a Illinois fishing license and what are the bag limits in Illinois?
See here for more information on fishing licenses in Illinois, bag limits for target species, and fishing season regulations in Illinois. When in doubt, your fishing guide will always know the right rules and regulations in Illinois.
What is fishing in Illinois about?
Fishing in Illinois offers a rich tapestry of opportunities across its lakes, rivers, and reservoirs, catering to anglers of all interests and skill levels. One of the most renowned destinations is Lake Michigan, which provides exceptional freshwater fishing experiences. Anglers flock to its shores for prized catches like salmon, trout, and perch. Whether fishing from charter boats or piers along the Chicago lakefront, Lake Michigan offers a unique urban fishing experience amidst stunning views of the city skyline.
Inland, Illinois boasts numerous lakes and rivers that are perfect for a variety of fishing pursuits. The Illinois River, for instance, is famous for its robust catfish populations, including channel catfish and flathead catfish. Anglers often target these species using techniques like bottom fishing with stink baits or live bait, particularly in the river's deeper pools and bends. Additionally, the Fox Chain O'Lakes in northern Illinois is renowned for its diverse fishery, offering opportunities to catch bass, walleye, muskie, and panfish amidst interconnected lakes and channels.
Fly fishing enthusiasts will find ample opportunities in Illinois, particularly in the scenic rivers and streams that wind through the state's forests and farmlands. The Fox River and Kankakee River, for example, are popular spots for catching smallmouth bass, as well as various species of trout, including brown and rainbow trout. These rivers provide ideal conditions for casting dry flies and nymphs, with their riffles and runs creating perfect habitats for trout. Whether exploring urban fishing on Lake Michigan or seeking solitude in Illinois' inland waters, the state offers a diverse and rewarding fishing experience for all who cast a line.
What are the most popular months to go fishing in Illinois?
Fishing in Illinois follows a seasonal rhythm that offers distinct opportunities throughout the year. Spring kicks off the fishing season with a burst of activity as fish become more active with warming temperatures. Largemouth bass, in particular, move into shallow waters for spawning, making them more accessible to anglers. Lakes like Lake Shelbyville and Rend Lake are popular spots for spring bass fishing, where techniques such as crankbaits, spinnerbaits, and soft plastics prove effective. Crappie fishing also peaks in spring, with these tasty panfish congregating near submerged structures and shorelines.
Summer in Illinois presents different fishing challenges and rewards. As temperatures rise, many fish, including bass and catfish, seek cooler, deeper waters during the heat of the day. Early morning and late evening become prime times for fishing, especially for species like largemouth bass that feed more actively during low-light periods. Reservoirs like Lake Michigan and the Fox Chain O'Lakes continue to attract anglers seeking a variety of catches, from salmon and trout in Lake Michigan to walleye and muskie in the chain of lakes.
Fall is a favorite season for many anglers in Illinois, as fish become more active in preparation for winter. Bass fishing remains strong, with both largemouth and smallmouth bass feeding voraciously to build up energy reserves. The cooling water temperatures also trigger migrations and feeding frenzies among species like crappie and catfish. Fall is an excellent time to explore rivers like the Illinois River and Fox River for their robust catfish populations, as well as trout streams for opportunities to catch rainbow and brown trout. The changing foliage and cooler weather create a picturesque backdrop for memorable fishing experiences throughout the state.
What types of fishing are popular in Illinois?
Fishing in Illinois offers a variety of types and techniques tailored to its diverse waterways and fish species. Bass fishing is immensely popular, with anglers targeting largemouth and smallmouth bass in lakes, rivers, and reservoirs throughout the state. Techniques such as casting with crankbaits, jigs, and topwater lures are effective for enticing bass, particularly around submerged structures and weed beds. Places like Lake Shelbyville and the Chain O'Lakes are renowned for their bass fisheries, attracting anglers who enjoy the thrill of hooking into these powerful and prized game fish.
Catfish fishing is another prominent pursuit in Illinois, with several species including channel catfish, flathead catfish, and blue catfish found in abundance. Anglers often use bottom fishing techniques with stink baits, cut baits, or live bait to target catfish, especially in rivers like the Illinois River and the Mississippi River. Jug fishing and trotlining are also popular methods for catching catfish in deeper waters and channels. Catfish are known for their size and strength, offering a rewarding challenge and a tasty meal for those who enjoy fishing for these bottom-dwelling giants.
Fly fishing enthusiasts will find plenty to appreciate in Illinois, particularly in its scenic rivers and streams. The Fox River and Kankakee River are prime spots for fly fishing, offering opportunities to catch species like smallmouth bass, trout, and panfish. Fly anglers often use lightweight rods and artificial flies to mimic insects and baitfish that these fish feed on, presenting a more natural and challenging approach to fishing. These rivers' riffles, runs, and pools provide ideal habitats for trout and bass, making them popular destinations for anglers seeking a serene and skillful fishing experience in Illinois.
What species are popular for fishing in Illinois?
When fishing in Illinois, anglers have a diverse array of species to target across its lakes, rivers, and reservoirs. Largemouth bass are among the most coveted catches, abundant in many of the state's water bodies like Lake Shelbyville and Rend Lake. These aggressive predators respond well to techniques such as casting with crankbaits, spinnerbaits, and plastic worms around submerged structures and weed beds. Spring and early summer are particularly productive seasons for bass fishing in Illinois, as the fish move into shallow waters for spawning and feeding.
Catfish are another popular species to pursue in Illinois, with several types including channel catfish, flathead catfish, and blue catfish thriving in its rivers and lakes. The Illinois River and the Mississippi River are renowned for their robust catfish populations, offering opportunities for both bank and boat fishing. Bottom fishing with stink baits, chicken liver, or cut bait is effective for targeting these bottom-dwelling giants, especially during nighttime hours when catfish are most active. Anglers can enjoy the thrill of hooking into sizable catfish while taking in the scenic river landscapes.
For anglers seeking a different kind of challenge, trout fishing in Illinois' coldwater streams and rivers provides a rewarding experience. The Fox River and Kankakee River offer excellent opportunities to catch species like rainbow trout and brown trout, particularly in their clear waters and riffles. Fly fishing is a popular technique among trout anglers, requiring skill and finesse to cast artificial flies that mimic natural insect prey. These rivers' habitats support healthy trout populations, making them ideal destinations for those who appreciate the artistry and tranquility of fly fishing in Illinois.
What are the best places to fish in Illinois?
Illinois offers a wealth of excellent fishing spots, catering to anglers with diverse preferences and interests. Lake Michigan stands out as a premier destination, especially along the Chicago lakefront, where anglers can enjoy world-class freshwater fishing. The lake is renowned for its salmon and trout fisheries, including coho salmon, chinook salmon, steelhead, and lake trout. Fishing from piers, charter boats, or even kayaks provides opportunities to catch trophy-sized fish against the backdrop of Chicago's iconic skyline.
Inland, the Fox Chain O'Lakes is a favorite among anglers for its interconnected series of lakes and channels, offering abundant fishing opportunities. Bass fishing is particularly popular here, with largemouth bass and smallmouth bass thriving amidst the network of weed beds, submerged structures, and shoreline cover. Anglers also target species like walleye, muskie, and panfish in these productive waters. The chain's accessibility and variety make it an ideal destination for both weekend anglers and serious tournament competitors.
For those seeking a more serene fishing experience, southern Illinois offers exceptional opportunities along the Ohio River and its tributaries. These waters host a variety of fish species, including catfish, bass, and crappie, amidst picturesque landscapes of rolling hills and forests. The Ohio River's backwaters and sloughs provide prime habitats for catfish, while bass anglers find success in the river's deeper pools and channels. Whether fishing from the shore or a boat, southern Illinois provides a tranquil escape for anglers looking to unwind and enjoy the natural beauty of the region while casting a line.
Does Illinois have good fishing?
Illinois offers a wealth of fishing opportunities across its diverse landscapes, making it a prime destination for anglers of all types. The state's expansive network of lakes, rivers, and reservoirs provides abundant fishing grounds for a variety of fish species. Lake Michigan, along Illinois' northeastern border, is renowned for its world-class Salmon and Trout fishing. Anglers flock to ports like Chicago and Waukegan to target Chinook Salmon, Coho Salmon, Lake Trout, and Steelhead, enjoying both shore fishing and charter boat excursions amidst stunning cityscapes and lakefront parks.
Inland, Illinois boasts numerous lakes and rivers that cater to freshwater fishing enthusiasts. The Illinois River, Fox River, and Rock River are popular spots for Bass, Catfish, and Panfish, offering serene settings for both boat and shore fishing. Carlyle Lake and Rend Lake, two of the state's largest reservoirs, are known for their Bass tournaments and provide ample opportunities for recreational anglers to explore vast expanses of water teeming with game fish.
Illinois' fishing community is vibrant and supported by a range of resources and events. The state hosts various fishing tournaments and derbies, such as the Illinois Governor's Cup Walleye Tournament and the Quad Cities Carp Classic, which attract anglers from across the Midwest. Local bait shops, marinas, and fishing guides offer valuable assistance and local expertise to help anglers navigate Illinois' diverse fishing opportunities effectively. With its commitment to conservation and sustainable fishing practices, Illinois ensures that its fisheries remain healthy and accessible for residents and visitors alike, preserving the natural beauty and recreational opportunities that make Illinois a top destination for fishing enthusiasts.
The Best Places to Fish in Illinois
Top Targeted Fishing Species in Illinois
Top Fishing Techniques in Illinois
Top Types of Fishing in Illinois
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