Whether you want a peaceful morning on the shore or to take the kids out on the boat, the Forest Preserves of Cook County can be the place to scratch that fishing itch. Nearly 2,000 acres of our land are fishable waters.

Here are a few things you should know as you cast your line:

Our lakes are stocked with fish

The Fisheries Management Division along with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources stocks Forest Preserves lakes year-round. Over the last 10 years, an average of 437,000 fish were dumped into between 19 and 25 different lakes annually. In 2023, eight species were stocked including bluegill, which accounted for 41 percent of the year’s total. Visit fpdcc.com/things-to-do/fishing/#stocking for the latest stocking report.

The quality of water and fish is tested regularly

The IDNR regularly monitors temperature, pH, color and a variety of chemical compounds in the water. Fish are also collected and tested for contaminants and harmful substances to ensure they are safe for human consumption. Visit fpdcc.com/things-to-do/fishing/#consumption for the latest fish consumption advisory.

You don’t have to head north to catch walleye

The odds of reeling in a big catch are less than snagging a bluegill, green sunfish or bullhead, but it’s not impossible. Our fishing lakes are stocked with fish including muskellunge, walleye, and northern pike. The best chances for you to end your day smiling for a picture with one of these beauties would be at Busse Lake, Powderhorn Lake, Skokie Lagoons or Tampier Lake.

For all information about fishing at the Preserves, from accessible fishing areas to the fishing regulations, visit fpdcc.com/things-to-do/fishing.