Largemouth Bass

Richmond, Illinois offers some surprisingly good largemouth bass fishing, particularly in the Chain O' Lakes region just to the east. This interconnected system of lakes and channels provides diverse habitat, from shallow weedy bays ideal for flipping jigs and plastics, to deeper, clearer water where crankbaits and spinnerbaits can be effective. Spring and fall are prime times, as bass move into shallower water to spawn or fatten up before winter. A local tip: focus on areas with submerged vegetation or wood cover, as these provide ambush points for bass. The Fox River, which flows through the Chain, also holds bass, especially near bridge pilings and current breaks. Be aware of heavy recreational boat traffic on weekends, especially during the summer months. Consider launching from Chain O' Lakes State Park for excellent access to multiple lakes.