Largemouth Bass

Lake Decatur is the prime location for largemouth bass fishing near Decatur, Illinois, offering a diverse habitat and a thriving bass population. This impoundment of the Sangamon River features a mix of shallow weedy areas, deep channels, and submerged structure, providing ample opportunities for anglers. Spring is an excellent time to target bass as they move shallow to spawn. Focus on the backs of coves and around vegetation. Summer fishing can be productive early and late in the day, with anglers targeting deeper structure with crankbaits and Carolina rigs. Fall sees another surge in bass activity as they feed up for winter. A local tip: pay attention to water clarity, as Lake Decatur can be prone to fluctuating conditions. If the water is clear, use more natural-colored lures. If it's murky, opt for brighter colors. Several public boat ramps provide easy access to the lake. The bass population in Lake Decatur is healthy, with a good number of fish in the 2-5 pound range, and the potential for larger specimens. Consider joining a local bass club to learn more about the lake and improve your fishing skills.