Walleye

While Park Ridge isn't typically known as a walleye hotspot, the Des Plaines River, which flows nearby, holds a decent population for anglers willing to put in the time. Walleye fishing here is best during the spring and fall months when water temperatures are cooler, and the fish are more active. Focus your efforts around areas with current breaks, such as bridge pilings or submerged timber. Try using jigs tipped with minnows or nightcrawlers, bouncing them along the bottom. Access to the river is available at several parks along its course, but be mindful of water levels, especially after heavy rains, as this can impact fishing conditions. The walleye in the Des Plaines tend to be on the smaller side, but persistence can pay off with a respectable catch.