The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) announced Wednesday that the stocking of catchable trout for the fall season is on hold until water temperatures become suitable for trout survival. Unusually warm weather across Illinois this fall has delayed the cooling of lakes and ponds statewide.
Trout introduced into waters warmer than 68 degrees are at risk of high mortality. As a result, IDNR will begin stocking at early catch-and-release sites as soon as water temperatures drop. Stocking at most locations is expected by October 31st. The public can find stocking updates on IDNR’s ifishillinois.org website and through IDNR’s social media channels.
Although the official opening date for the fall trout season remains Saturday, October 18th, anglers should be aware that trout may not be present at many sites on opening day due to the stocking delay. The delay will also impact early-season catch-and-release opportunities at locations across the state.
IDNR biologists are actively monitoring water temperatures statewide, and stocking will commence as soon as conditions are favorable. Once temperatures cool, IDNR hatchery staff will begin trout deliveries, incorporating early-season fish into the regular fall stocking schedule.
All anglers participating in trout fishing must possess an Illinois fishing license and inland trout stamp. These are available at IDNR license and permit locations, including bait shops, sporting goods stores, and other retail outlets, as well as online. Visit the IDNR website for locations and online purchasing.
For information about site-specific regulations, anglers should contact individual stocking locations. Not all sites open at 5 a.m. on opening day, so it is important to check the opening time of your favorite site before heading out.
IDNR reinstated its Catchable Trout Program in 1994, which is partially funded through the sale of inland trout stamps. Each fall, more than 80,000 rainbow trout are stocked in approved waters, with an additional 80,000 trout stocked each spring.
In our area, trout fishing opportunities will be available at the following locations:
Wayne County: Sam Dale Lake Conservation Area Trout Pond
Marion County: Boston Pond, Stephen A. Forbes State Recreation Area
Jefferson County: Mount Vernon Game Farm Pond
Wabash County: Beall Woods Lake, Beall Woods State Park
For more information on trout seasons and stocking locations, please visit the IDNR website.
Comments