Largemouth Bass

Elk Grove Village may be close to Chicago, but it offers surprisingly good largemouth bass fishing in its numerous smaller lakes and ponds. Busse Woods, a large forest preserve just south of the village, is a popular starting point. The Busse Lake complex offers varied structure, including submerged timber, weed beds, and drop-offs that hold bass throughout the year. Spring and fall are prime times, as bass are actively feeding during the spawn and pre-winter periods. For bank fishermen, the shoreline around the main lake and the smaller connected ponds provides ample access. A local tip: focus on the windward side of the lake, as wind-blown insects and baitfish tend to concentrate there, attracting hungry bass. Also, be aware that Busse Woods can get crowded, especially on weekends. Early mornings and weekdays offer the best chance for a quiet and productive fishing experience. The largemouth in Busse Lake tend to be on the smaller side, but there are some quality fish to be found with persistence.