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Silver Lake (Blackwell)
Largemouth Bass
Best time: Before 9 AM only
Use
Drop-Shot Rig
A soft plastic worm suspended off the bottom — very effective in clear water
1/4 oz weight, 8" leader, size 1 hook, 4" Roboworm in natural colors
How
Fish the deeper rocky transition (10–18 ft) midday. In the heat, bass go deep in this clear lake.
Channel Catfish
Best time: Evening after 7 PM
Use
Nightcrawler or Cut Bait
Whole nightcrawler or a chunk of fish, fished on the bottom
1 oz sinker, 2/0 circle hook, bottom
How
Cast to 10–15 ft depth, set rod down, wait. Clear water means catfish feed more by smell after dark.
Northern Pike
Best time: Early morning only
Use
Large Swimbait
A soft plastic fish-shaped lure on a weighted head
5–6", white shad color, 1 oz head. Wire leader required.
How
Slow retrieve along any weed edge very early morning. Pike are sluggish in summer heat.
Regulations
Largemouth Bassmin 14–18" slot (keep under 14" or over 18") · 4 per day (max 1 over 18")
Channel Catfishmin 12" · 6 per day
Northern Pikemin 24" · 3 per day
All Illinois waters require a valid fishing license. Check IDNR iFish app for current stockings.