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 Evanston. Right now in February, activity is low.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Steelhead
Steelhead runs in the streams and rivers near Evanston, Illinois, offer challenging and rewarding fishing. These migratory rainbow trout enter the tributaries of Lake Michigan in the fall and spring to spawn. Fly fishing with nymphs and streamers is a popular method, but spinning gear with small spoons or spinners can also be effective. Focus on areas with riffles, runs, and pools. Remember to check local regulations for specific stream closures and gear restrictions. A practical tip: stealth is key when fishing for steelhead in these smaller streams. Wear drab clothing and approach the water cautiously. The Chicago River system, while urban, can hold surprising numbers of steelhead during the peak runs. Check water levels and clarity before heading out.
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 best time of year to target steelhead in Evanston, IL?
Steelhead fishing is popular in the fall and spring when they migrate. Check local fishing reports for the most up-to-date information.
What's the minimum size steelhead I can keep in Illinois?
You can only keep steelhead that are 15 inches or longer.
How many steelhead can I keep in a day?
The daily bag limit for steelhead is 3 fish.
Are there any special regulations for steelhead fishing near Evanston?
Make sure to check the Illinois Department of Natural Resources website for any specific regulations or advisories in the Evanston area.
More Steelhead Fishing in Illinois
Other Species to Fish in Evanston
Ready to Catch Steelhead in Evanston?
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