Walleye

If you're looking to tangle with some walleye near Grant Park, Illinois, your best bet is to explore the Kankakee River. While not a walleye mecca, the river offers pockets where these fish congregate, especially during the spring spawning run and again in the fall as water temperatures cool. Focus your efforts around areas with current breaks, such as bridge pilings, rocky points, and submerged timber. Spring fishing can be excellent right after ice-out, while the fall bite often picks up as the walleye fatten up for winter. A local tip: Many anglers find success wading the shallower stretches of the river, casting jigs or crankbaits upstream and retrieving them with the current. Be aware of water levels, as the Kankakee can fluctuate rapidly after rainfall. The walleye here tend to be on the smaller side, but they are scrappy and offer a fun challenge for anglers of all skill levels. Remember to check Illinois DNR regulations for size and creel limits.