Shabbona Lake has been declared the “Muskie Capitol of Illinois” and “Illinois Best Fishing Lake” by Dennis Sands and recognized by a resolution presented Rep. Robert Pritchard to the State of Illinois House of Representatives (see Resolution).
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.
On any given day you can catch Muskie, Bass, Walleye, Crappie, Catfish, Perch, Stripers & Bluegill.
- Home Of 4 State Of Illinois Record Muskie
- Home Of 2 State Of Illinois Record Hybrid Crappie
- 425,000 Visitors A Year
- Only 80 Miles West Of Chicago
- Only 30 Miles West Of Aurora
- Only 25 Miles Southwest Of DeKalb
Learn more about fishing Shabbona Lake at Lakeside Bait, Tackle & Boat Rental
The Park is open year-round and the hours of operation are:
April thru October
6:00 AM – 10:00 PM
November thru January
8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
February thru March
8:00 AM – 6:00 PM