Fishing Charters in Illinois
Browse fishing charters in Illinois that can help you catch coho 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 Coho Salmon
Coho Salmon can be caught year-round in Waukegan. Right now in February, activity is low.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Coho Salmon
If you're chasing Coho Salmon near Waukegan, Illinois, Lake Michigan is where you want to be. The Coho run here is heavily influenced by seasonal forage patterns. Early spring sees them close to shore, following smelt. As the water warms, they move deeper, so adjust your tactics accordingly. Focus on areas near the Waukegan Harbor and the surrounding piers, as these are popular staging points. Natural presentations like small spoons and crankbaits that mimic smelt or alewives are your best bet. Water temperature plays a huge role; Cohos prefer cooler waters, so pay attention to thermoclines and target depths where the temperature is optimal. A local tip: early morning and late evening often produce the best results. Don't be afraid to experiment with trolling speeds to find what the fish are responding to on a given day. Remember to check the Illinois Department of Natural Resources for current regulations and advisories.
How to Catch Coho Salmon
Coho 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 is the bag limit for Coho salmon in Waukegan, IL?
You can keep up to 5 salmon and trout per day in aggregate, so the Coho salmon limit is part of that total.
Are there any size restrictions for Coho salmon in Illinois?
Currently, there are no size restrictions on Coho salmon that you catch in Illinois waters.
Do I need a license to fish for Coho salmon in Waukegan?
Yes, you need a valid Illinois fishing license to fish for Coho salmon.
When's the best time to fish for Coho salmon near Waukegan?
Coho salmon fishing is typically best in the spring and fall months as they migrate.
More Coho Salmon Fishing in Illinois
Other Species to Fish in Waukegan
Ready to Catch Coho Salmon in Waukegan?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.