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Lake Ellyn
Bluegill
Best time: Morning 6–9 AM
Use
Worm Under a Bobber
Half a nightcrawler on a small hook with a float
Size 8 hook, bobber set 3–4 ft
How
Cast along any shaded bank or dock edge early morning. Easy, reliable action.
Channel Catfish
Best time: Evening after 7 PM
Use
Cut Shad
A piece of any fish you catch, used as bait — the smell draws catfish in
1 oz sinker, 18" leader, 1/0 circle hook on the bottom
How
Cast to the deepest area, set the rod in a holder, and wait. Catfish feed heavily at night.
Largemouth Bass
Best time: Before 9 AM or after 7 PM
Use
Topwater Popper
A hard floating lure that splashes on the surface when you twitch your rod
Any size popper, clear or shad color
How
Cast near any structure at first light, twitch the rod tip twice, pause 3 seconds, repeat.
Regulations
Bluegill25 per day
Channel Catfishmin 12" · 6 per day
Largemouth Bassmin 14–18" slot (keep under 14" or over 18") · 4 per day (max 1 over 18")
All Illinois waters require a valid fishing license. Check IDNR iFish app for current stockings.