Largemouth Bass

For largemouth bass near Carrollton, Illinois, focus your efforts on the smaller lakes, ponds, and backwater areas connected to the Illinois River. While the river itself can hold bass, the more secluded waters often offer better fishing. Spring and fall are the peak seasons, with the pre-spawn and post-spawn periods being particularly productive. Look for bass staging near submerged timber, weed lines, and rocky points. Plastic worms, crankbaits, and spinnerbaits are all effective lure choices. A helpful local tip is to access some of these smaller bodies of water by kayak or canoe, as bank access can be limited in some areas. The bass in this region tend to be opportunistic feeders, so experiment with different presentations and lure colors until you find what they're hitting. Be prepared for varying water levels depending on rainfall and river conditions.