Rend Lake

Reservoir, Franklin, Jefferson. Illinois, United States.
38.1416, -88.9642 — View on the map

Area
7,649 ha
Managed by
Illinois Department of Natural Resources (fisheries)
Permit required
Illinois fishing license (IDNR)
Step-free access
yes
Boat launch
yes

Useful gear for this area

Chosen from the species and size limits regulated in this area.

Species present

IDNR ifishillinois.org fishing outlook species

Local rules

IDNR 2026 fishing outlook: White Bass Good; Largemouth Bass Very Good; Flathead Catfish Good; Striped Bass x White Bass (Wiper) Fair; Bluegill Average; Crappie spp. Good; Channel Catfish Excellent. Not mapped: Striped Bass x White Bass (Wiper). Site-Specific Fishing Regulations: Recreational Use Restriction: Waterfowl Refuge or Hunting Area All Fish: All jugs must be attended at all times Large or Smallmouth Bass: 14 inch Minimum Length Limit; 6 Fish Daily Harvest Limit Striped, White, or Hybrid Striped Bass: 20 Fish Daily Harvest Limit with no more than 3 fish greater than or equal to 17 inches White, Black, or Hybrid Crappie: 25 Fish Daily Harvest Limit with no more than 10 fish greater than or equal to 10 inches Additional Information Planning to eat your catch?  Fish Consumption Advisory information can be found here:  Fish Consumption Advisory Page You can find Fish Attractor maps for Rend Lake here: https://indd.ado

2026 season calendar — Illinois

Access

Handicap Access: Yes; Boat Fishing: Yes - Unrestricted; Boat Ramps: Yes

Official sources

  1. Rend Lake — ifishillinois.org (IDNR) (accessed on 23 September 2026)