Walleye

If you're looking to hook into some walleye in northern Illinois, German Valley offers some surprisingly good opportunities. The Pecatonica River, which winds its way through the area, is a local hotspot. While it's not known for trophy-sized fish, the river holds a healthy population of smaller, feisty walleye that are great for a fun day on the water. Spring and fall are prime times, as the walleye move upstream to spawn or fatten up before winter. Focus on areas with current breaks, such as near bridge pilings or fallen trees. A local tip: try fishing the deeper holes near the confluence of smaller creeks with the Pecatonica. Also, be aware that river levels can fluctuate quickly after heavy rains, so check the water conditions before you head out. Using jigs tipped with minnows or nightcrawlers is a classic and effective technique here. The walleye in the Pecatonica tend to be opportunistic feeders, so experiment with different presentations until you find what they're biting on that day.