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Fishing Locations :: Lake

Rend Lake

IL

Found in the heart of beautiful Illinois, Rend Lake is one of the premier fishing locations of the midwestern region of the United States. This body of water is a large reservoir found near Benton, Illinois. Rend Lake is formed by a dam off of the Big Muddy River. Water primarily flows into Rend Lake from the Big Muddy Creek; water also exits through the Big Muddy River. This reservoir provides a unique experience to fishermen due to large and diverse populations of game fish.

Item Details

Species
Crappie, LM Bass, Stripe Bass

Fishing
Fishermen from across the Midwest and the entire United States flock to Rend Lake in order to partake in the enormous opportunities for freshwater fishing. Due to the large variety of fish in Rend Lake, fishermen of all styles and experience levels are able to enjoy all that nature has to offer. The primary game species of Rend Lake include largemouth bass bluegill, crappie, flathead catfish, channel catfish, blue catfish, common carp, and white bass. The largemouth bass is a favorite of freshwater fishermen across the entire United States and, due to this, it is a common target among the anglers of Rend Lake. Largemouth bass can be found throughout the entire lake in various locations. The shallower waters of Rend Lake are a great location to begin targeting largemouth bass. Fishermen should be sure to cast their lines near gaps and edges in weed beds. Largemouth bass often feed in these areas, so the morning and evening are great times to target these locations. The areas on either side of the dam are locally renowned for their largemouth bass abundance. Drop offs are also excellent places to target. When the weather is hot, largemouth bass anglers will need to travel to deep waters using a boat. In all circumstances, crankbaits, spinnerbaits, and tube jigs are excellent choices. There are many other options, so fishermen should be sure to test new tackle as they are released. The dense populations of crappie and bluegill make rend lake the perfect location for family fishing trips and serious adventures. Both of these species can be caught near the shoreline. Fishermen should target sand beds near weeds and pilings. Light tackle such as bobbers and jigs are very effective. Fly rods may also be used. The various species of catfish of Rend Lake offer excellent sport to the fishermen who enjoys a challenge. Some of these catfish, particularly individuals of the blue catfish population, have been known to grow large sizes that make for an exciting adventure. Fishermen should target deep waters and fishing holes for optimal results. There is a popular fishing hole near the dam that is known for its populations of large catfish; this is definitely a place worth targeting. Bottom rigs are the most successful setup since catfish are bottom feeders. Ideal catfish baits include stink baits, nightcrawlers, cheese, anchovies, chicken livers, cut bait, and any variety of bait that emits a strong odor. Artificial baits should be avoided because catfish rely on scent more than sight. Bluegill and crappie also offer some excitement to those limited to the shoreline and piers. These species can be found in shallow waters near pilings and weed beds.
Facilities
Rend Lake has several facilities and accommodations including piers, marinas, fueling stations, boat landings, tackle shops, and lodging.
The Lake
Rend Lake has a total area of 18,900 acres. It is 13 miles long and 3 miles wide. This reservoir has a maximum depth of 35 feet. Its average depth is 10 feet. The total shoreline of Rend Lake measures out to 162 miles.

Rend Lake is the perfect fishing location for those searching for a lake full of unique and diverse experiences.

 

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