Brown Trout

While Third Lake, Illinois, isn't typically known as a brown trout destination, dedicated anglers can find some success targeting these fish in the deeper, cooler sections of the lake, particularly during the spring and fall turnover periods. These periods see the lake's water column mix, bringing cooler, oxygenated water to various depths, making trout more active. Focus your efforts near the lake's limited structure – submerged timber or drop-offs – using small spoons, spinners, or live bait like nightcrawlers or minnows fished on light tackle. A key to success is understanding that Third Lake's trout population is sustained through stocking, so the fish may behave differently than wild trout. Local tip: The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) website offers stocking reports, which can help you time your trip for when fish are recently introduced. Also, be aware of the lake's weed growth during the summer, which can make fishing for trout more challenging.