Fishing Charters in Illinois
Browse fishing charters in Illinois that can help you catch chinook salmon.


Eyeronick Sport Fishing
Winthrop Harbor, Illinois


Xtreme Fun Charters
Chicago, Illinois
Unforgettable boat rentals in Chicago. Explore stunning shores, cruise the skyline, and create lasting memories. Book your boat rental adventure today!


Schools Out Sport Fishing
Waukegan, Illinois
Salmon and Trout fishing in the Chicagoland and Milwaukee region on Lake Michigan. Book today aboard School's Out Sport Fishing.


Dem Jigs
Streamwood, Illinois
Our hook collection features Mustad and Gamakatsu hooks trusted by anglers at every level—from weekend fishermen to tournament competitors. Built for strength, sharpness, and reliability, these hooks are designed to perform across nearly every fishing application. Whether you’re rigging soft plastics, flipping heavy co


Addiction Charters
Lindenhurst, Illinois
Chicago Lake Michigan Illinois charter fishing with Addiction Charters is the best King Salmon fishing around Chicago on Lake Michigan


Ness Charters
Winthrop Harbor, Illinois


River Valley Charter Service
Chillicothe, Illinois
River Valley Charter Service LLC, provides guided fishing charters on the Illinois River in Central Illinois for walleye, sauger, crappie, and white bass. We also offer river tours, for eagle watching and other wildlife viewing.


Prime Time Fishing
Waukegan Illinois salmon and trout fishing charter


Last Cast Ii
Lake Michigan Fishing, North Point Marina, Last Cast Charters, IIllinois Fishing, Trout, Salmon, Stealhead, Lake Trout, Coho, King Salmon, Brown Trout, Chicago Fishing, IL Fishing.


Double K Charters


Kingfin Charters
Lake Michigan Fishing Charters, Fishing Charters, Waukegan Fishing Charters, Lake Michigan


Shawnee Expeditions
Lake Kinkaid muskie musky walleye crappie bass fishing guide scott Donovan. Shawnee national forest fishing trip for walleye.
Best Time to Catch Chinook Salmon
Chinook Salmon can be caught year-round in Evanston. Right now in February, activity is low.
Seasonal Activity Chart

Chinook Salmon
Lake Michigan off Evanston, Illinois, offers a surprising Chinook Salmon fishery. The key is understanding the seasonal baitfish patterns. As alewives move closer to shore, especially in the fall, Chinooks follow. Trolling is the dominant technique, using downriggers to target different depths. Spoons and flasher/fly combinations are popular choices. Focus on areas near the water filtration plant or any structure that might hold baitfish. Early morning and late evening are often the most productive times. A local tip: check the Illinois Department of Natural Resources fishing reports for up-to-date information on salmon migration and stocking efforts. Be prepared for changing lake conditions – wind and waves can pick up quickly. The Dawes Park boat launch provides good access.
How to Catch Chinook Salmon
Chinook Salmon Fishing Regulations in Illinois
Open Season
Year-round
Daily Bag Limit
5 per day in aggregate with other salmon and trout
Size Limit
No size limit
License Required
Fishing License
The daily limit is 5 fish, but no more than 3 may be of the same species (Chinook, Coho, Rainbow, Brown, Pink, or Brook Trout). This regulation applies to Lake Michigan and its tributaries.
⚠️ Always verify current regulations with the Illinois state wildlife agency before fishing.
Related Species in Illinois
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best time to fish for Chinook Salmon in Evanston?
Chinook Salmon fishing is often best during the fall months when they migrate closer to shore to spawn. Spring can also be productive.
What is the Chinook Salmon bag limit in Illinois?
In Illinois, the bag limit for Chinook Salmon is 5 per day in aggregate with other salmon and trout species.
Is there a minimum size for Chinook Salmon in Illinois?
No, there is no minimum size limit for Chinook Salmon in Illinois.
Do I need a license to fish for Chinook Salmon in Evanston?
Yes, you need a valid Illinois fishing license to legally fish for Chinook Salmon in Evanston.
More Chinook Salmon Fishing in Illinois
Other Species to Fish in Evanston
Ready to Catch Chinook Salmon in Evanston?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.


