Largemouth Bass

Diamond, Illinois, offers some surprisingly good largemouth bass fishing, especially if you know where to look. The Kankakee River, which flows nearby, is a prime spot. Anglers often have success in the sloughs and backwaters connected to the river, particularly after periods of high water when bass move into these areas to feed. Heidecke Lake, a cooling lake, is another popular destination, known for its relatively warm water and extended growing season, which allows bass to reach impressive sizes. Spring and fall are generally the best times to target largemouth in this region. Look for pre-spawn activity in the spring as the water warms, and then again in the fall as bass feed heavily before winter. A local tip: pay attention to water clarity in the Kankakee. If it's muddy, try using lures with rattles or bright colors to help bass locate your bait. Heidecke Lake has specific regulations, so be sure to check those before heading out.