Largemouth Bass

For largemouth bass in Cedarville, Illinois, look no further than the numerous ponds and small lakes scattered throughout the area. These smaller bodies of water, often found on private property (always get permission!), can hold surprisingly good numbers of largemouth. Lake Le-Aqua-Na State Recreation Area, while potentially crowded, offers public access and a well-managed fishery. Spring is an excellent time to target bass as they move shallow to spawn. Soft plastics like worms and creature baits are effective, especially around submerged vegetation and structure. Summer evenings can also be productive with topwater lures. The largemouth in this region tend to be healthy and aggressive, responding well to a variety of presentations. A local tip: pay attention to water clarity; in clearer water, use more natural-colored lures, while in murky water, opt for brighter colors. Be sure to check local regulations regarding size and creel limits.