Illinois Fishing Regulations
Freshwater and saltwater fishing regulations by state.
Selected state: Illinois · Updated: 2025-04-01
Regulations by State
General regulations for Illinois. Many coastal zones and reservoirs have special rules — always confirm on the official source.
| Species | Minimum Size | Bag Limit | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
Largemouth Bass | No minimum size (statewide) | 6 | Illinois Department of Natural Resources |
Crappie | No minimum size (statewide) | No limit | Illinois Department of Natural Resources |
Bluegill (Sunfish) | No minimum size | No limit | Illinois Department of Natural Resources |
Walleye / Sauger | 14 inches | 6 | Illinois Department of Natural Resources |
Channel Catfish | No minimum size | No limit | Illinois Department of Natural Resources |
Flathead Catfish | No minimum size | No limit | Illinois Department of Natural Resources |
Smallmouth Bass | No minimum size (statewide) | 6 (in aggregate with largemouth) | Illinois Department of Natural Resources |
White Bass | No minimum (under 17 inches) | No limit under 17"; 3 fish 17"+ (with striped bass aggregate) | Illinois Department of Natural Resources |
Striped Bass and Hybrids | No minimum (under 17 inches) | No limit under 17"; 3 fish 17"+ (aggregate) | Illinois Department of Natural Resources |
View official Illinois freshwater regulations
Verify current limits and seasons on the official Illinois Department of Natural Resources website.
If you find the fishing regulation data is wrong, please contact us.