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Species

Rank

Fish Status

BLUEGILL

Good

Although widespread throughout the Des Plaines, abundance was higher at the upstream, lower gradient locations, particularly at Wadsworth and Belvidere Roads. However, quality-sized fish made up only 12% of the catch.

LARGEMOUTH BASS

Very Good

Catch rates throughout the river were 25/hr. Larger fish were more abundant downstream of Riverside, especially at Lemont Road and Isle La Cache.

NORTHERN PIKE

Excellent

Catch rates were 4/hr throughout the river. Sizes ranged from 6-26". Fourteen of 41 Pike were > 21".

ROCK BASS

Good

Catch rates throughout the river were 20 fish/hr. Highest catch rates were found at the former Dam #2, Riverside and Lemont road.

SAUGER

Good

IDNR has stocked an average of 19,000 2-inch fingerlings per year since 2000, primarily in the lower river. Catch rates ranged from 4-21/hr in higher gradient areas, with fish ranging from 6-19" in length.

SMALLMOUTH BASS

Fair

Catch rate was over 120/hr in 2020 at Isle La Cache, near Romeoville - a record high for the Des Plaines River. All size classes were present with 15/hr in the 14 - 16" size range. Young-of-the-year were abundant indicating very good reproduction, which was a first for the previously degraded river.