Plan a Fishing Trip to Carbondale, IL

1 guideBest months: April, May, June, September

Plan Your Trip

What's Biting in Carbondale Right Now

Largemouth Bass

Excellentfreshwater

Spinning, Baitcasting, Fly Fishing

Northern Pike

ExcellentVarious

Walleye

ExcellentVarious

Smallmouth Bass

Excellentfreshwater

Casting, Fly Fishing, Jigging

Crappie

Excellentfreshwater

Jigging, Live Bait Fishing, Casting

What's Biting By Month

Peak

1 / 2

Top Fishing Guides in Carbondale

Shawnee Expeditions

5(4)Top Rated

Lake Kinkaid muskie musky walleye crappie bass fishing guide scott Donovan. Shawnee national forest fishing trip for walleye.

freshwaterLargemouth BassWalleye

Carbondale, Illinois

What to Bring

Check with Carbondale guides about what gear is provided. Here's a recommended packing list:

Essentials

Sunscreen (SPF 50+)
Polarized sunglasses
Hat or visor
Weather-appropriate clothing
Non-marking shoes or deck shoes

Food & Personal

Water and drinks (stay hydrated)
Snacks or lunch
Cooler for your catch
Motion sickness medication (if needed)
Camera or phone (waterproof case recommended)
Valid fishing license (confirm with captain)

For freshwater Fishing

Bug spray
Rain gear

Book Your Travel

Find Hotels

Hotels in Carbondale, IL

Rent a Car

Pickup in Carbondale

Prepare for Your Trip

Gear recommendations and packing list for your trip. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

For Your Target Species

Texas Rig Kit

Bullet weights, hooks, and soft plastic worms for Texas rigging

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Spinnerbait Assortment

White, chartreuse, and shad pattern spinnerbaits

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For Freshwater Fishing

Topwater Frog

Walk-the-dog frog for explosive bass strikes in heavy cover

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Baitcasting Reel

Accurate casting reel for flipping jigs and throwing crankbaits

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For the Season

Waterproof Backpack

Keeps electronics and gear dry in downpours and spray

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Anti-Fog Sunglasses Spray

Keep polarized lenses clear in humid and rainy conditions

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Trip Essentials

Fishing Pliers

Saltwater-resistant pliers with split ring tool and line cutter

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Waterproof Dry Bag

Roll-top bag for phone, wallet, and keys — keeps everything dry

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Things to Do in Carbondale

Activities for your non-fishing days

Kayaking & Paddleboarding

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Wildlife & Nature Tours

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Illinois Fishing License

License: Fishing License

Largemouth Bass regulations may vary by location. Check the Illinois Department of Natural Resources fishing guide for site-specific regulations.