Warm water temperatures delay trout release ahead of IL fall fishing season

CENTRAL ILLINOIS (WCIA) — The Illinois Department of Natural Resources is delaying its release of catchable trout into Illinois waters due to warmer-than-usual water temperatures.

Officials said in a news release that trout in water warmer than 68 degrees Fahrenheit could experience high mortality. As a result, the IDNR is waiting for lakes and ponds to cool down before releasing the fish.

The official opening date for the fall trout season is Saturday, Oct. 18, but anglers should be aware that trout will not be present at many fishing sites on that date. This will also affect early-season catch-and-release opportunities statewide.

IDNR biologists are monitoring water temperatures statewide, and stocking will proceed as soon as conditions allow. The IDNR expects to have fishing sites stocked by the end of the month.

The public can find updates on stocking on the IDNR’s website and social media channels.

All anglers who participate in trout fishing must have an Illinois fishing license and an inland trout stamp, which are available at IDNR license and permit locations. These include bait shops, sporting goods stores and retail outlets. Licenses and stamps can also be purchased online.

Trout fishing locations in Central Illinois include:

• Kaufman Lake in the Champaign Park District
• Manners Park Pond in the Taylorville Park District
• The EIU Campus Pond in Charleston
• Weldon Springs State Park near Clinton
• Villa Grove West Lake
• Rock Springs Pond in the Macon County Conservation District
• Morgan Lake at Nichols Park in Jacksonville
• IDOT Lake in Springfield
• Southwind Park in Springfield
• Washington Park Pond in Springfield
• Forest Park Lagoon in Shelbyville
• Clear Lake in the Kickapoo State Recreation Area