Crappie

If you're chasing crappie near Elwood, Illinois, the Mazon River and the cooling lakes associated with the nearby power plant offer some surprisingly productive fishing. These lakes, in particular, hold good numbers of crappie, and their slightly warmer temperatures often extend the fishing season. Spring is prime time, as crappie move into the shallows to spawn, but don't overlook the fall when they feed heavily before winter. For bank access, try the areas around the Route 53 bridge over the Mazon River; you'll find some decent spots to cast from the shore. A local tip: Pay close attention to water clarity in the cooling lakes. After heavy rains, they can get muddy quickly, so check conditions before heading out. The crappie here tend to run a bit smaller than in some other Illinois lakes, but what they lack in size, they make up for in numbers, making for a fun day on the water.