Fishing Clinton Lake

AKA: Lake Clinton

Most Popular Fish
Clinton Lake Fishing Video
Available Fish Species
Amenities
Today's Weather & Forecast
Fishing Boat Rentals
Boat Launch Ramps
Marinas
Local Fishing Guides
Fishing License
Campgrounds & RV Parks
Map
Contact Info

Clinton Lake, IL

Popular Fish Species Clinton Lake, IL

Clinton Lake Popular Fish - Largemouth Bass

Largemouth Bass Fishing

Clinton Lake offers good fishing for quality largemouth bass. Many big bass roam the waters of Clinton Lake, thanks to excellent fisheries management by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, as well as the availability of extensive cover for both baitfish and bass. Whenever the bite is good, bass tend to move shallower and are quite aggressive. If you find them shallow and they are not tempted to bite, slow down and use smaller, lighter baits. Fishing for largemouth bass is good virtually any time they are shallow - in spring, mornings in summer, and during warm Fall afternoons. Use shallow crankbaits around rip rap. Around grass use worms, jigs, topwater and spinnerbaits. In deeper water, big worms, jigs and spoons are three good weapons. In winter, spend your time fishing Clinton Lake on deeper structure where the bass spend much of their time.

Clinton Lake Popular Fish - Blue Catfish

Blue Catfish Fishing

This year blue catfish are running in the big to monster size in Clinton Lake. Most of the local guides offer catfish trips, and big blues are the favorite target. The state record is over 120 pounds. Fishing for blue catfish is most often productive summer around any kind of structure. The river end of the lake is often the area where the bigger catfish are caught. Road beds, creek channels and rocky points are all good places to begin. Use a slip sinker or Carolina rig with cut bait or other popular catfish baits. Other catfish in the lake include channel and flathead catfish.

Crappie Fishing

Black and white crappie both reside in Clinton Lake, with black crappie typically out-weighing white crappie. They do school together so when you find them you may catch both species. Crappie fishing is on the rise and they can be found in sizeable schools. Crappie always like cover and structure, so locate brush and vegetation. Using a fish finder can help locate schools of crappie, 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 in deeper water.

Fish species to fish for...

Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, blue catfish, black crappie, white crappie, walleye, white bass and hybrid striped bass at Clinton Lake in Illinois.

Clinton Lake Fishing Video

Providing a nice variety of fish species for anglers, Clinton Lake is an 4,900-acre lake in the east-central part of Illinois, a few miles east of Clinton. Bass and crappie top the list of angler interest here, but the lake also supports respectable populations of white bass, hybrid stripers and walleye.

Clinton Lake, in Illinois, is a renowned destination for fishing enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers. Located in DeWitt County, this expansive reservoir offers exceptional fishing opportunities and a picturesque natural environment. Clinton Lake is known for its diverse fish population, attracting anglers from far and wide.

Bass fishing is a major attraction at Clinton Lake, with largemouth bass abundant in its waters. Anglers can test their skills and enjoy the thrill of reeling in these powerful game fish. The lake's submerged structures, rocky shorelines, and weed beds provide ideal habitats for bass, offering exciting angling experiences and the opportunity to catch trophy-sized fish.

Walleye fishing is another highlight at Clinton Lake. Anglers are drawn to the lake for the chance to catch these elusive and highly prized game fish. Walleye can be found in good numbers, particularly around the lake's deeper structures and during certain seasons. Successful walleye fishing at Clinton Lake requires knowledge of their habits and proper techniques, providing a challenge for dedicated anglers.

Crappie, known for their delicate and flavorful fillets, are a popular target for anglers at Clinton Lake. These panfish offer enjoyable fishing experiences, particularly for those seeking a rewarding catch. Anglers can find success targeting crappie near submerged structures, brush piles, and drop-offs using various techniques such as jigging or casting with live bait.

White bass and hybrid striped bass are also abundant in Clinton Lake, offering additional angling opportunities. These species provide exciting action and strong fights, making them popular targets for anglers seeking a thrilling experience. Anglers can enjoy the challenge of reeling in these hard-fighting fish and experiencing the adrenaline rush that comes with landing them.

There are over 125 miles of shoreline, much of which is not accessible for fishing from the bank. However, there are a few areas, including near the boat ramps, with some access. Canoes and kayaks provide access to fishing areas, and the boat launch ramps facilitate launching of all types of boats for fishing, water sports and sightseeing. The marina on the water serves the boating and fishing visitors with standard marina products and services.

Primary fish species residing in Clinton Lake

Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.

Clinton Lake Amenities

Marina: YES
Boat Rental: YES
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: YES
Lodging: NEARBY
Convenience Store: YES
Bait & Tackle: YES
Restaurant: YES

Today's Weather & Forecast

Apart from fishing, Clinton Lake is a haven for boating enthusiasts. The lake's vast expanse and calm waters make it ideal for various water activities. Whether you prefer cruising on a pontoon boat, water skiing, or kayaking, Clinton Lake provides a serene and picturesque environment for boating adventures and water sports.

Fishing Boat Rentals

Barefoot Cove Marina
Rentals: Kayaks and pontoon boats
217 736-2565

Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings

670 N Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the southwest section of the lake, off 670 N Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Clinton Lake State Recreation Area Boat Ramp
Located mid lake, on the north side of the lake, off Boat Ramp Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Parnell Boat Access Area
Located in the northeast section of the lake, west side, at the north end of the Liberty Road Bridge, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

The Point Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the northwest section of the lake, east side, off 1550 E Road, this is a one-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and gravel parking.

Weldon Access Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the northeast section of the lake, east side, off 885 N Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Marinas

Barefoot Cove Marina
6599 Sailboat Rd
Weldon, IL 61882
217 736-2565

Fishing Guides On Clinton Lake

Heartland Guide Service - crappie, bass, walleye

Feel The Thump Guide Service - crappie

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 looking to extend their stay, Clinton Lake offers camping facilities. The lake features well-maintained campgrounds that offer a peaceful and scenic setting. Camping at Clinton 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

Clinton Lake State Recreation Area Campground - 217 935-8722