Fishing Charters in Illinois
Browse fishing charters in Illinois that can help you catch steelhead.
Twenty Four VII Charters
Twenty Four VII Charters LLC, Lake Michigan Sport Fishing Charters, Charters on Lake Michigan out of Kenosha, Wisconsin and North Point, IL. coho, king salmon, steelhead, brown & lake trout
SchellFish Charters
Fishing Lake Michigan - Captain Robert Schell Charter & Guide Fishing Trips on Lake Michigan for Perch, King Salmon, Coho Salmon, Brown Trout, Steelhead Trout and Lake Trout in Illinois & Indiana from Chicago, Illinois to East Chicago, Indiana.
Storm Warning Chicago Fishing Charters
This spring has delivered the best steelhead fishing we've ever seen in the spring on Lake Michigan—and it's not even close. Here at Storm Warning Charters, we've caught more steelhead than so far this year than any other spring season in the past — easily double the usual numbers. So, what is a steelhead? A
Windycitysalmon
Great Lakes Illinois sport fishing, Chicago Lake Michigan Salmon Charters, and Lake Michigan Fishing Charters. Fishing for Chinook Salmon, Coho, Steelhead Salmon, Lake Trout and Brown Trout with Captain Rick Bentley of Independence Fishing Charters.
Best Time to Catch Steelhead
Steelhead can be caught year-round in Cedar Point. Right now in February, activity is low.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Steelhead
Steelhead fishing near Cedar Point offers a thrilling opportunity to intercept these migratory trout as they run up the Illinois River and its tributaries from Lake Michigan. The fall and spring are prime times, with the best action often occurring after periods of rain that draw fish upstream. Natural presentations like egg sacs, nymphs, or small spinners are effective. Adjust your depth and retrieve based on the current and water temperature. A key to success is finding areas with good current breaks and holding water. Be aware that Steelhead can be wary, so use light line and long leaders. A local access tip: The area near Starved Rock State Park provides access to the Illinois River and its tributaries, but be prepared for crowds, especially during peak runs. Consider exploring less-known access points further upstream for more solitude.
How to Catch Steelhead
Steelhead Fishing Regulations in Illinois
Open Season
Year-round
Daily Bag Limit
3 per day
Size Limit
15-inch minimum
License Required
Fishing License
Possession limit is 6 fish. Check site-specific regulations as some areas may have different rules.
⚠️ Always verify current regulations with the Illinois state wildlife agency before fishing.
Related Species in Illinois
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the bag limit for Steelhead in Illinois?
You can keep up to 3 Steelhead per day.
What is the minimum size Steelhead I can keep in Illinois?
The minimum size limit for Steelhead is 15 inches.
Do I need a fishing license to fish for Steelhead near Cedar Point?
Yes, you need a valid Illinois fishing license.
Can you fish for Steelhead year-round in Illinois?
Yes, the season is open year-round for Steelhead.
More Steelhead Fishing in Illinois
Other Species to Fish in Cedar Point
Ready to Catch Steelhead in Cedar Point?
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