Whether fishing from a boat or shore, both are popular and productive at Shabbona Lake, which is stocked with large and smallmouth bass, bluegill, redear sunfish, rock bass, black and white crappie, black and brown bullhead, channel catfish, walleye, muskie and perch. For fish catch and size limits, contact the park office.
Lake access is available from a double-lane launching ramp. Boat motors are limited to a 10 horsepower maximum. However, an 18-acre upper fishing area is a no-wake zone where only the use of electric trolling motors or rowing is permitted. For further details, including information on special sailing regulations, contact the park office.
Swimming and/or wading is prohibited at Shabbona Lake. This regulation is strictly enforced.
i was curious about the fishing this time of year 4-6-12. me and some buddies were gonna head up here and fish. i know its great during the summer and fall time but what about spring?
The bass bites is always good in the Spring using Chatterbaits, Rattle traps and live bait.
Crappie fishing is amazing using live bait.
Muskie fishing is hit and miss.
hi i never fished this lake and i heard there’s crappie so wheres a good spot to fish ?? thanks
Hi Tommy,
The lake is excellent for Crappie, especially at this time of year. Here’s a recent post about some crappie caught at Shabbona Lake. http://shabbonalake.com/index.php/crappie-are-hot/.
Here’s a great article written specifically about Spring Crappie at Shabbona Lake. http://shabbonalake.com/index.php/fishing/fishing-articles/spring-crappies-at-shabbona-lake/
The tip board is also a good resource http://shabbonalake.com/index.php/fishing/tip-board/. The locations on the Tip Board reference spots on this map: http://shabbonalake.com/index.php/fishing/free-lake-map/
I would recommend when you do make it out stop in at Lakeside Bait, Tackle & Boat Rental so they can tell you where the Crappie are biting.
- Becky
the last time i went they werent hitting to far off shore i suggest head towards the dam and troll just off the shore near spot 28 on the map i used a jig with a minnow on it
ok thanks
hi are there good spots in lake shabbona from shore to catch crappie ??and can you fish in nmz from shore ?
The no motor zone is the best place to fish from shore for crappie at this time of year. However, in about 2 weeks the crappie will be shallow and fishing will be in its prime.
HI i went yesterday to fish for crappie and nothing and can you help where are crappies hitting from shore and what bait are they hitting more THANKS
Tom ~ I would recommend that you stop in the bait shop on the day of your visit. Fishing conditions can change daily and they are best equipped to send you in the right direction for that day. Ask for Denny or Clint and they will be glad to help you.
~ Becky