Walleye

The hunt for walleye in Lemont, Illinois, centers primarily around the Des Plaines River. This waterway, while sometimes overlooked, holds a decent population of walleye, especially near areas with current breaks, rocky bottoms, and bridge pilings. Prime time for walleye in this region is during the spring and fall, specifically during the pre-spawn and post-spawn periods. In spring (March-April), focus on areas near spawning grounds. In the fall (October-November), walleye are actively feeding to prepare for winter. A key tip for fishing the Des Plaines for walleye is to utilize jigs tipped with minnows or plastic trailers, working them slowly along the bottom. Access can be gained from various parks and forest preserve areas along the river. Be aware of the river's fluctuating water levels, which can impact fishing success. Walleye in the Des Plaines tend to be modest in size, but they offer a rewarding challenge for anglers willing to put in the time and effort.