Kayak Fishing on the Illinois River: Species, Spots and Rigging Tips

The Illinois River around Ottawa and Starved Rock is an overlooked kayak fishing destination. It is big water with a lot of structure, plenty of species, and far fewer boats than you will find on many northern Illinois lakes. A kayak lets you slip into spots a powerboat cannot reach.

Here is a local guide to what you can catch, where to look, and how to rig your kayak so a day on the river goes smoothly.

Why fish the Illinois River from a kayak?

• Stealth: a kayak is quiet and sits low, so you can approach fish without spooking them.
• Access: shallow backwaters, side channels and island edges are easy to reach.
• Low cost: no fuel, no trailer and no slip fees.
• Hands-free fishing: a pedal drive such as the Hobie MirageDrive frees both hands for casting, and lets you hold position in current.

What you can catch

The upper Illinois River near Starved Rock is best known for white bass, walleye and sauger, with smallmouth bass, catfish, crappie and largemouth bass also in the mix, according to river fishing guides. Anglers say sauger are far more common than walleye. Here are the main targets:

White bass and sauger

Spring and fall runs draw anglers from around the Midwest. Jigs and small crankbaits are common choices. Fish often hold in current seams and along structure.

Smallmouth bass

Look for rock, wing dams and current breaks. Crayfish are an important food source, so crayfish imitations are worth packing.

Catfish

Catfish are present throughout the river. Fish the deeper holes and slower water near structure, especially in the evening.

Crappie and largemouth

Backwaters, brush and slower side channels are good places to start. These are good options when the main river runs high or fast.

Specific lakes, species and seasons change from year to year, so check the current Illinois DNR fishing reports and ask local bait shops before you go.

Where to look around Ottawa and Starved Rock

The Ottawa pool of the Illinois River stretches from the Marseilles Lock to the Starved Rock Lock, offering 12+ miles of river. Quest kayak rentals launch from Heritage Harbor Ottawa, which is also a handy place to start your own trip. Things to look for:

• Islands and side channels: eddies and slack water behind islands hold fish.
• Shoreline structure: fallen trees, rock, docks and seawalls.
• Current breaks: where fast water meets slow.
• Backwater lakes and sloughs: good when the river is up.

Stay away from dams and locks. The water below them is dangerous to small craft, even when it looks productive. Fish well clear of those areas and do not anchor near them.

Safety on a working river

• The Illinois River is a commercial waterway. Stay near shore and well clear of barges. They cannot stop or turn quickly.
• There is a current. It is usually slow, but plan your route so you are not paddling upstream at the end of a tired day.
• Wear a life jacket at all times. Our rentals require it for every rider.
• Check the forecast and the wind. Wide water can get rough quickly.
• Tell someone where you are going and when you expect to return.

Licenses and rules

Illinois requires a fishing license for anglers 16 and older, with some exemptions. At the time of writing, the Illinois DNR lists a standard resident annual license at $15, but fees and rules change, so confirm on the DNR website. Check current size limits and creel limits for each species before you fish.

Kayak fishing rigging checklist

You can fish from almost any kayak, but a good setup makes a big difference. Here is a checklist.

Safety and basics

• Life jacket (PFD) that is comfortable for casting
• Whistle, a light for low-light conditions, and a waterproof phone case
• Paddle, plus a paddle leash or holder
• Water, food and sun protection

Fishing gear

• Rod holders, so you can troll or reposition hands-free
• Leashes on rods, pliers and other gear that could sink
• Tackle box or crate within reach
• Net and fish grips
• Anchor or anchor trolley, sized for current

Comfort and convenience

• A supportive seat. Long days are easier with good back support.
• A cart to move the kayak to the water
• Mounts for a fish finder, camera or accessories

Browse our kayak parts and accessories for rod holders, carts and mounts, or call us and we will help you plan the layout. Our team can rig your kayak for fishing; see kayak rigging & demos.

Choosing a fishing kayak

Pedal kayaks make river fishing easier because you can hold position and keep rods in your hands. Hobie's fishing line includes the Mirage Outback, Pro Angler 12 and Pro Angler 14 (in 180 and 360 drive versions). See our full Hobie kayaks collection, or read our Hobie Mirage Drive buyer's guide. The kayak fishing page covers the models in more detail.

New to fishing from a kayak? Try a guided outing through Hobie First Cast, and demo a few boats for free before you buy.

For paddling basics around Ottawa, see our kayaking near Starved Rock guide.

Get on the water

Call us at 815.433.2200 or visit the shop in Ottawa. We will help you pick a kayak, rig it and point you toward the river.

FAQ

What fish can I catch on the Illinois River near Ottawa?

River fishing guides list white bass, sauger and walleye as the best known species near Starved Rock, along with smallmouth bass, catfish, crappie and largemouth bass. Check current DNR fishing reports for what is biting.

Do I need a fishing license?

Illinois requires a fishing license for anglers 16 and older, with some exemptions. Confirm current fees and rules on the Illinois DNR website.

Is a pedal kayak better for fishing?

Many anglers think so. A Hobie MirageDrive keeps your hands free to cast and lets you hold position in current. See the Hobie kayaks collection.

Where can I launch a kayak near Ottawa?

Quest kayak rentals launch from Heritage Harbor Ottawa. If you launch elsewhere, confirm access, parking and fees first.

Can I try a fishing kayak before I buy?

Yes. We offer free demo rides at Heritage Harbor. See demos and rigging or call 815.433.2200.