Largemouth Bass

Bartlett, Illinois, and the surrounding Chicago suburbs offer surprisingly good largemouth bass fishing, despite the urban environment. Numerous forest preserve lakes and ponds, like Mallard Lake and Lake Sedgewick, are stocked and managed for fishing. The best time to target largemouth is during the spring and fall, when water temperatures are moderate and the bass are actively feeding. Look for them around structure such as docks, fallen trees, and weed edges. Plastic worms, crankbaits, and spinnerbaits are all effective lures. A local tip: many of these lakes have a 14-inch minimum length limit, so be sure to check the regulations before you go. Also, be aware that shoreline access can be limited in some areas, so consider bringing a kayak or canoe to reach more remote spots. The largemouth in these urban lakes tend to be opportunistic feeders, so don't be afraid to experiment with different lures and presentations.