Fishing East Fork Lake

AKA: East Fork Reservoir

Popular Fish Species
East Fork Lake Fishing Video
Available Fish Species
Amenities
Today's Weather & Forecast
Boat Launch Ramps
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Fishing License
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East Fork Lake, IL

Popular Fish Species East Fork Lake, IL

Crappie Fishing

Crappie anglers will be happy to know they can fish for both black crappie and white crappie at East Fork Lake. These two species tend to school separately. However, once located around cover, you may catch both species, as they often use the same cover. For best results when fishing for crappie, light line and small hooks are key, especially when fishing live or prepared baits. Crappie jigs are also productive her in a wide variety of colors. East Fork Lake is a good place to catch good quantities of nice, fat slabs. Crappie fishing can be found in varying size schools, hanging around brush, vegetation, wood or other cover. Using a fish finder any time of year can help locate these crappie schools, which tend to stack vertically around cover. Live bait and small jigs are the most common method for crappie here. In spring and fall focus on the 8 to 12 foot range. As the crappie move deep in summer and winter, follow points out deep, as well as find ledges near channels, especially areas with brush or timber in deeper water. The best time to catch crappie tends to be at dawn and dusk.

Walleye Fishing

East Fork Lake is home to a hearty population of walleye. Good fisheries management by Illinois Department of Natural Resources and plenty of forage in the lake have them growing fat and healthy. Walleye have excellent vision in low light scenarios which helps them find food in deep or murky water. Make an effort to be on the water anytime there are low light conditions. During May and June is the optimal time to catch them, while feeding in shallower water. Other times of the year they are more likely to roam around in deeper water. Concentrate around structure like points, flats and ledges off the river channels. One of the proven methods for catching walleye here is trolling with spinners tipped with live bait, or trolling with long-billed, deep diving crankbaits. However casting live bait, jigs, worms and spoons also works well at times.

East Fork Lake Popular Fish - Largemouth Bass

Largemouth Bass Fishing

East Fork Lake is a popular bass tournament lake. Weekend and tournament anglers find the fishing to be slow at times, yet pretty good at other times. Fishing for bass can be quite rewarding, with an occasional bass over 4 pounds being caught. Largemouth bass often move shallow and become aggressive when they are in a feeding mood. Use shallow crankbaits around rip rap. Around grass, use worms, jigs, topwater and spinnerbaits. In deeper water, drop shot rigs, big worms, jigs and spoons are good options. In winter, spend your time fishing deeper structure where the bass spend much of their time.

Fish species to fish for...

Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, channel catfish, black crappie, white crappie, walleye, bluegill, green sunfish, redear sunfish and warmouth at East Fork Lake in Illinois.

East Fork Lake Fishing Video

Created as a reservoir for the City of Olney, East Fork Lake has become a popular fishing destination. It is a 934-acre lake in the southeast part of the state with 25 miles of shoreline to fish.

East Fork Lake, located in Illinois, is a hidden gem for fishing enthusiasts and outdoor lovers. Situated in Richland County, this picturesque reservoir offers fantastic fishing opportunities and a serene natural environment. East Fork Lake is home to a variety of popular fish species, making it a sought-after destination for anglers of all ages and skill levels.

Largemouth bass fishing is a highlight at East Fork Lake. Anglers can enjoy the thrill of reeling in these powerful game fish while appreciating the scenic beauty of the lake. Whether you prefer casting from the shore or navigating the lake in a boat, East Fork Lake provides an ideal setting for bass fishing adventures.

Walleye, known for their delicious taste and challenging nature, are another prized species found in East Fork Lake. Anglers are drawn to the lake for the opportunity to catch these elusive fish. With their keen senses and preference for low-light conditions, walleye fishing in East Fork Lake requires skill and strategy. Successful walleye anglers are rewarded with a delectable catch.

Panfish species, such as bluegill, crappie, and sunfish, are abundant in East Fork Lake. These smaller fish offer great fishing experiences for families and beginners. Bluegill, with their striking colors and willingness to bite, are often the first fish caught by young anglers. Crappie, known for their delicate and flavorful fillets, are a popular target for anglers seeking a rewarding catch. Sunfish provide a relaxing and enjoyable angling experience, making them perfect for those looking for a leisurely day on the water.

East Fork Launch Ramp, Rotary Park and East Fork Lake Campground are located mid lake, on the north shore. The park and several other locations around the lake provide good access for fishing from the bank.

Primary fish species residing in East Fork Lake

Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.

East Fork Lake Amenities

Marina: NO
Boat Rental: NO
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: YES
Lodging: YES
Convenience Store: NEARBY
Bait & Tackle: NEARBY
Restaurant: NEARBY

Today's Weather & Forecast

Besides fishing, East Fork Lake offers opportunities for boating enthusiasts. The lake's calm waters and spacious surface area make it ideal for various water activities. Whether you prefer cruising on a pontoon boat, water skiing, or kayaking, East Fork Lake provides a serene and picturesque environment for boating adventures.

Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings

East Fork Launch Ramp
Located mid lake, on the north side of the lake, off E Kiwanis Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with docks and gravel parking.

Fishing Guides On East Fork Lake

If you offer fishing guide services on this lake, please contact us for a free listing, to be posted here.

Fishing License

Click here for a Illinois Fishing License.

For those who wish to extend their stay, East Fork Lake provides camping facilities. The lake features well-maintained campgrounds that offer a peaceful and scenic setting. Camping at East Fork Lake allows visitors to wake up to stunning lake views, enjoy campfire cookouts, and immerse themselves in the tranquility of nature. The campgrounds provide amenities such as picnic areas, hiking trails, and fishing docks, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience.

Campgrounds & RV Parks Nearby

East Fork Lake Campground - 618 395-4787

Lakeside RV and Campground - 618 393-4351