Largemouth Bass

Hickory Hills, Illinois, offers some surprisingly good largemouth bass fishing, especially considering its proximity to Chicago. Anglers often find success in the smaller lakes and ponds scattered throughout the Cook County Forest Preserves. These waters, like Tampier Lake and Saganashkee Slough, provide a variety of habitats, from weedy shallows to submerged timber, perfect for targeting largemouth. Spring and fall are prime times, as the bass move into shallower water to spawn or feed before winter. A local tip: many of these forest preserve lakes have walking paths around them, making bank fishing very accessible. Also, be sure to check the specific regulations for each lake, as some may have restrictions on boat size or motor type. The largemouth in these waters tend to be opportunistic feeders, so a variety of lures, from crankbaits to plastic worms, can be effective. Don't be afraid to experiment to see what they're hitting on a given day.