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 Springfield. Right now in February, activity is low.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Catfish
For catfish anglers, Springfield and its surrounding waters provide excellent opportunities to tangle with channel cats, blues, and flatheads. The Sangamon River and Lake Springfield are both popular destinations. Summer is generally the best time for catfish, as they become more active in warmer water. Stinkbaits, cut bait, and live bait are all effective, depending on the species you're targeting. For channel cats, try fishing near submerged timber or in deeper holes with stinkbait. For flatheads, live bait like bluegill or bullheads fished near structure is the way to go. Lake Springfield offers several boat ramps for easy access. A local tip: Check the river levels before heading out, as catfish activity often increases after a rise in water. Be prepared for some bigger fish; the Sangamon River in particular is known for producing some impressive flatheads.
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 is the aggregate daily limit for catfish in Illinois?
You can keep a combined total of 6 channel, blue, and flathead catfish per day.
Are there any size restrictions for catfish in Illinois?
There are no size restrictions for catfish in Illinois. You can keep any size you catch.
What's a good bait for catching catfish around Springfield?
Popular catfish baits in the Springfield area include nightcrawlers, chicken liver, and commercially prepared stink baits. Experiment to see what the catfish are biting on.
Where are some good places to fish for catfish near Springfield, IL?
The Sangamon River and Lake Springfield are both good options for catfish. Look for areas with deep holes and structure.
More Catfish Fishing in Illinois
Other Species to Fish in Springfield
Ready to Catch Catfish in Springfield?
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