Cook County Forest Preserve Lakes and Ponds

[Edward D. Slusser]

We recently moved to the southwest side of Chicago where there are many Forest Preserve lakes and ponds within 10 miles.  They all list Bluegill first on the list of fish in their waters.  My closest is Maple Lake which is beautiful and enjoyable.

Anyone that can give me advice--baits, tackle, depths etc.-- on how to fish for gills in these waters will be appreciated.  I fish from shore.  Maple Lake has row boats available till Oct 1.

[John Cachel]

Use ultralight tackle, 4 lbs test line, small float (bobber) and redworm or leafworm. fish around weeds, woods, etc and dont stay too long in one spot. no fish then move to other area. if catch some small bluegills then try deeper water and if not work then move to other area! Thats simple but good to get start! Maple Lake, Wampum, Saq Quarries, Ida, Tamiper and many ponds in your area but 8 inch or bigger is rare so let it back to water! Read fishing magazine, Outdoor Notebooks and Midwest Outdoor that you will learn more to catch more fish! You can find magazines in fishing tackle near your home! Talk owner or worker in tackle store is good start! Have fun!

[Edward D. Slusser]

Thanks for the good info....

 

[Dwayne Denison]

Talk to Johnny Wilkins on here. He could tell you all hot spots in cook county.

[Edward D. Slusser]

Thanks Dwayne