Largemouth Bass

Wadsworth, Illinois, offers some surprisingly good largemouth bass fishing, especially in the smaller lakes and ponds scattered throughout Lake County. These smaller bodies of water often hold healthy populations of bass that don't see the same fishing pressure as larger, more well-known lakes. Spring is prime time, as the bass move into the shallows to spawn. Look for them around weed beds and submerged timber. Fall can also be productive as the bass feed aggressively before winter. A key to success in Wadsworth is using smaller lures and lighter tackle. The bass here can be a bit finicky, so downsizing your presentation can make a big difference. Try working a Texas-rigged worm slowly along the bottom or casting a small crankbait around structure. Many of these smaller lakes have limited access, so be sure to check local regulations regarding parking and boat launches. Some are private, so always respect property rights.