The start of the year kicks off with some angling action. You’ll be able to fish for Yellow Perch this month. Temperatures reach a minimum of 15°F so wrap up warm!

If you're a competitve angler, join in in the Chain O’Lakes Fishing Derby this month – will your fish be the biggest? Perch are still a popular target this month, but you'll also find other Panfish such as Crappie. 

During March, you can take a trip to the Chicago River and see it dyed bright green for St. Patrick’s Day! If it's fishing you're interested in, you'll be pleased to know that this month sees the Walleye run. 

Perch can't be targeted this month, so catch your fill of Crappie instead. You can also cast a line for other species, with Smallmouth Bass being especially popular in April. 

From Memorial Day to Labor Day, you can partake in the “Blarney Island Boat Races” on the Chain O’Lakes. When it comes to fishing, the waters are heating up, and you'll be able to target Bass, Trout, and others. 

Temperatures reach a high of 57°F in June, and the Fox River is equally as hot! Fishing is good for Largemouth Bass and Northern Pike, and you'll also be able to target Muskies.

On land, head to the Pitchfork Music Festival in Chicago. If you're looking to cast a line, you'll be able to target anything from Smallmouth Bass, to Muskies, to Trout varieties. 

Head up to Wonder Lake and watch their Lake Water Ski Show Team perform. Temperatures reach a high of 60°F, and the fishing is still hot, with Walleye back in action, as well as Catfish and Trout. 

Temperatures start to drop this month, so wrap up if you head out on a Fox River fishing adventure. Trout and Musky are still good to catch in September.

Head to the Fox River and target plenty of Walleye and Muskies this month! Keep an eye out for King Salmon, too. Although this fish isn't a frequent visitor to the river, some varieties head here to spawn in late fall. 

Temperatures can reach lows of 20°F, so most fish will head out to deeper waters. Rainbow Trout can be caught in shallowe waters, though, so you'll have some exciting action at the end of your line!

The lakes around Fox River can start icing over in December, which means you can add to the holiday festivities by indulging in some ice fishing! Contact a local guide who knows the area to ensure you're fishing safely.