Last time I said I would write about some current “hotspots” where the fish are biting really well. These are the spots that are accessible from shore, so fisherman can take the kids and try their luck.
The “hottest” spot is the Skokie Lagoons. We have been getting reports of really great action from largemouth bass and crappie. The bass are hitting a variety of baits, so try everything and vary the retrieve. Fisherman will be stretching lines with some nice fish (reports of bass over four pounds being caught).
The crappie are holding to downed trees, branches and weed piles. Try a small jig and twister tail, or small crank bait: Both should be effective on these aggressive fighters.
Busse Woods also has some really active largemouth bass. The reports are that they are located in some of the backwaters and in current areas. They are hitting on topwater baits in the shallow water, 2-3 feet. The other active bait is a Senko worm.
A little further north, at Independence Park in Libertyville, the word is lots of bass on jigs and jerkbaits. They are everywhere in shallow water. This is the place to rent a boat and enjoy some fishing away from shore and other fisherman.
Let’s not forget our own Lovelace Park here in Evanston. I’ve had several e-mails about the good bite going on here. The size may not be there, but the kids are more interested in just catching something. Speaking of Lovelace Park, the free kids’ fishing program on Saturday mornings begins May 3, and on May 31 there is a big fundraiser at Lovelace Park. I hope a lot of my readers will come out. The funds raised will go toward keeping the kids’ program going this summer and in summers to come. I will provide more information in the next column. Until then, keep a tight line …
Dick at hookedonfishing@comcast.net.