Largemouth Bass

If you're targeting largemouth bass near Northlake, Illinois, your best bet is to explore the Des Plaines River and the various ponds and lakes within the surrounding forest preserves. These waters, though often overlooked, can provide surprisingly good bass fishing opportunities. Spring is prime time, as bass move into the shallows to spawn. Look for them near weed beds, docks, and fallen timber. Summer can also be productive, especially during early morning or late evening hours. Local anglers often have success fishing the canals that connect to the Des Plaines River. A Texas-rigged worm or a jig worked slowly along the bottom can be deadly. Access to many of these areas is readily available through the Cook County Forest Preserves. Be sure to check the local regulations regarding fishing licenses and boat restrictions. The largemouth in this region tend to be opportunistic feeders, and while trophy-sized fish are rare, you can consistently catch bass in the 1-3 pound range.