Walleye

While not as renowned as other Illinois locations, Crest Hill offers some surprisingly decent walleye fishing opportunities, primarily within the Des Plaines River. Focus your efforts in areas with current, structure, and depth changes. Spring and fall are the prime times to target walleye here. In the spring, walleye migrate upstream to spawn, congregating below dams and in areas with rocky bottoms. Jigs tipped with minnows or nightcrawlers are highly effective. In the fall, they're actively feeding to prepare for winter. Try trolling crankbaits or casting blade baits near deeper holes and channel edges. Bridge pilings and areas with submerged timber are also worth exploring. Water clarity can vary greatly in the Des Plaines, so be prepared to adjust your lure selection accordingly. A local tip: focus on areas where tributaries enter the main river channel, as these often hold concentrations of baitfish, which attract walleye. Access points are available along the river, but be aware of potential currents and boat traffic.