Fishing Charters in Illinois
Browse fishing charters in Illinois that can help you catch catfish.
Hills guide service
Hill's Guide Service LLC is the premiere charter fishing service for central Illinois. Jason Hill specializes in catching huge blue catfish, flathead catfish, and channel catfish amongst other freshwater species.
Lithia Fishing Guide
Lake Shelbyville Fishing Guide Service. Fish for Largemouth Bass, White Bass, Crappie, Large Mouth Bass, Catfish, Bluegill, Blue Gill, Walleye, Muskie. Check Out Ken's Fishing Report and Fishing Photos. Fish with the Best Guide on Lake Shelbyville!
Best Time to Catch Catfish
Catfish can be caught year-round in Quincy. Right now in February, activity is low.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Catfish
Quincy, Illinois, is a fantastic destination for chasing catfish, with the mighty Mississippi River offering diverse habitat and abundant opportunities. Channel, blue, and flathead catfish all thrive in these waters. Summer nights are prime time, as catfish become more active under the cover of darkness. Focus on areas with current, such as river bends, channel edges, and below dams. Stinkbaits, cut bait, and live bait are all effective options. A key local tip: scout out areas with submerged timber and rocky bottoms, as these provide cover and attract catfish. The Quincy riverfront offers several public access points and boat ramps, making it easy to get on the water. Be prepared for some hefty fish; the Mississippi River around Quincy is known for producing some truly impressive catfish.
How to Catch Catfish
Catfish Fishing Regulations in Illinois
Open Season
Year-round
Daily Bag Limit
6 per day (channel, blue, and flathead catfish, in aggregate)
Size Limit
No size limit
License Required
Fishing License
Some lakes and rivers may have site-specific regulations; consult the Illinois Fishing Information guide.
⚠️ Always verify current regulations with the Illinois state wildlife agency before fishing.
Related Species in Illinois
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best bait to use for catfish in Quincy, IL?
Catfish in the Quincy area respond well to a variety of baits. Popular choices include nightcrawlers, chicken liver, stink baits, and cut bait. Experiment to see what's working best on any given day.
What is the daily limit for catfish in Illinois?
In Illinois, you can keep up to 6 catfish per day. This limit applies to channel, blue, and flathead catfish in aggregate.
Are there any size restrictions for catfish I catch near Quincy?
No, there are currently no size restrictions for catfish in Illinois. You can keep any size you catch, as long as you stay within the daily bag limit.
Do I need a fishing license to target catfish in Illinois?
Yes, a valid Illinois fishing license is required to fish for catfish and other species in the state's public waters. Make sure to have yours with you while fishing.
More Catfish Fishing in Illinois
Other Species to Fish in Quincy
Ready to Catch Catfish in Quincy?
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