🐟 Evergreen Lake Illinois Fishing Report Today 🎣

6 days ago · Updated 6 days ago

Evergreen Lake in Illinois is a 925-acre reservoir located in McLean County, offering anglers a diverse fishery with species such as saugeye, largemouth bass, muskie, hybrid striped bass, bluegill, and catfish. The lake features 22.5 miles of shoreline and is managed under a long-term fishery plan, with regular stocking and strict regulations to maintain healthy populations.

Content

Weekly Catches
Weather & Marine Conditions
Fishing Conditions & Tips
Regulations & Notices
Fishing Dashboard 🎣
Fishing Spots Map

Weekly Catches

No verified catches in the last 7 or 15 days; the catches below cover the last 21 days.

Saugeye

Regular anglers at Evergreen Lake continue to target saugeye, with reports suggesting the lake may hold a new state record. The largest saugeye ever collected by DNR weighed 10.6 pounds, and the standing state record of 9.68 pounds was set at Evergreen Lake 24 years ago. Recent growth trends indicate excellent prospects for trophy-sized fish, especially in deeper sections and near structure.

Anglers are focusing on deeper water and drop-offs for larger saugeye.
Effective baits include minnows and night crawlers, available at the lake’s bait shop.

Hybrid Striped Bass

Recent outings have produced giant hybrid striped bass on Evergreen Lake, with chatterbaits proving highly effective. These fish are often found near aerators and areas with high concentrations of baitfish, especially shad. The action has been best during warm afternoons when water temperatures reach the low 80s.

Hotspots include areas around the aerator, where predatory fish congregate.
Chatterbaits and shad-imitating lures have triggered aggressive strikes.

Largemouth Bass

Anglers have reported catching several largemouth bass over the past week, though most were average-sized. Bass are active near shoreline cover and submerged vegetation, especially during early morning and late evening hours. The warm weather has kept bass feeding aggressively.

Best results with soft plastics and spinnerbaits worked around weed beds.
Some bass have been caught near the aerator, where baitfish are abundant.

Bluegill

Bluegill remain a reliable catch at Evergreen Lake, with anglers enjoying fried bluegill meals after successful outings. These panfish are plentiful near shallow cover and respond well to simple baits.

Effective baits include wax worms and red worms.
Shoreline areas and docks have produced steady catches.

Other Species

Muskie are present in the lake, with a state record previously caught here. While no recent muskie catches have been reported, the ongoing stocking program ensures continued opportunities for trophy fish. Channel catfish and flathead catfish are also available, though recent catch details are limited.

Weather & Marine Conditions

As of September 11, 2025, Evergreen Lake water levels are approximately one foot below capacity. Surface temperatures have ranged from the mid to high 70s, with daytime highs reaching into the 90s. Both boat ramps are in good condition, and the aerator/de-stratification pump is operational, improving oxygen levels and attracting baitfish and predators.

Warm, stable weather has kept fish active, especially during early morning and late afternoon.
Fall hours are now in effect for the bait shop (8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. daily) and boat rentals (weekends only).

Fishing Conditions & Tips

With abundant baitfish such as shad gathering near the aerator, predatory species like largemouth bass and hybrid striped bass are actively feeding in these areas. Anglers are advised to target drop-offs, submerged structure, and aerated zones for the best results. The bait shop provides a variety of live and prepared baits, including minnows, night crawlers, wax worms, and cheese baits.

Use shad-imitating lures and chatterbaits for hybrid striped bass.
Soft plastics and spinnerbaits are effective for largemouth bass near vegetation.
Wax worms and red worms work well for bluegill in shallow areas.

Regulations & Notices

All anglers must possess a valid Illinois Fishing License. Evergreen Lake enforces a 10 horsepower motor limit, with gas motors prohibited in certain southern sections from October 15th to January 1st to protect migratory waterfowl. Fishing is restricted to two poles with up to two hooks or lures each. Bank poles, trot lines, bush lines, seining, and jug fishing are prohibited. Swimming, wading, and float fishing are not allowed.

Fish Size & Creel Limits
Species	Minimum Size	Daily Creel Limit
Muskie	48 inches	1
Saugeye/Walleye/Sauger	18 inches	3
Bass (Large/Smallmouth)	15 inches	3
Crappie	15 (max 5 ≥10")	15

Watercraft registration is required for all boats, canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards. Daily and annual permits are available for residents and non-residents. The lake is closed during the Deer Management Program on select weekends in November.

Anglers are reminded to properly dispose of fishing line and tackle to protect local wildlife. Littered fishing line has caused injuries to birds at Evergreen Lake; recycling containers are available, and park staff regularly maintain shorelines.