Fishing Lake Mattoon
AKA: Mattoon Reservoir
Popular Fish Species Lake Mattoon, IL
Largemouth Bass Fishing
Lake Mattoon is known to locals and anglers in the region as a good bass lake. Both weekend and tournament anglers have been catching bass in decent numbers, and fish over 4 pounds are not uncommon. Fishing for largemouth bass can be quite rewarding, with an occasional bass over 5 pounds being caught. In Lake Mattoon, bass often move shallow and become fairly 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.
Crappie Fishing
When fishing for crappie, light line and small hooks are key when fishing live or prepared baits. Crappie jigs are also productive her in a wide variety of colors. Lake Mattoon is home to both black and white crappie. With a history of good crappie fishing, Lake Mattoon continues to deliver good quantities of nice, fat slabs. The lake has healthy populations of both white crappie and black crappie. These two species typically tend to school separately. However, once located around cover, you may find that you catch both species, due to the fact they often share the same cover. 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.
Channel Catfish Fishing
Lake Mattoon has a very dependable population of channel catfish for many years now. The typical fish are about 2 pounds, with larger ones caught frequently. For weekend anglers, most any rod and reel will work for catching channel catfish, as long as the line is strong enough. For serious catfish enthusiasts, using the right equipment enhances success, especially when you hook one of the big boys. A medium action, to medium-heavy action rod is ideal, in the 6' to 7' range. Use a slip sinker or Carolina rig with popular catfish baits on at least 10-pound line. Use sharp hooks with bait holders on the shank, or circle hooks for live bait. The state record channel catfish is over 45 pounds. Flathead catfish also reside in the lake and fishing for them is often good as well. Night fishing for catfish often delivers better results than daytime fishing. Fishing for channel catfish is often most productive around any kind of structure in the area. In Spring channel catfish migrate toward incoming water, so stay up river away from the main lake. In early summer look for rocky banks, the bigger the rocks the better. In summer and winter deeper structure is where to look. 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.
Fish species to fish for...
Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, channel catfish, flathead catfish, black crappie, white crappie, saugeye, bluegill, green sunfish, warmouth and hybrid striped bass at Lake Mattoon in Illinois.
Lake Mattoon Fishing Video
Fed by the waters of Little Wabash River, Lake Mattoon is a 1,050-acre reservoir in central IL, 10 miles north of Effingham. There is no limit on boat motor horsepower, so it is popular with water-sports enthusiasts for water skiing, jet skis and towables.
Lake Mattoon, located in Illinois, is a hidden gem for fishing enthusiasts and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Nestled in Coles County, this picturesque reservoir offers excellent fishing opportunities and a serene natural setting. The lake is home to a variety of popular fish species, making it a sought-after destination for anglers.
One of the prized fish species found in Lake Mattoon is the saugeye, a hybrid between a walleye and a sauger. Saugeye are known for their excellent taste and challenging nature, providing anglers with an exciting fishing experience. Largemouth bass are also abundant in the lake. These game fish offer exhilarating battles and are highly sought after by anglers looking for a challenge.
Hybrid striped bass, also known as wipers, are another prized species found in Lake Mattoon. These hard-fighting fish provide anglers with thrilling encounters and are known for their aggressive nature. Anglers targeting wipers can expect an adrenaline-pumping fishing adventure.
Lake Mattoon also boasts healthy populations of crappie, sunfish, and catfish. Crappie, known for their delicious taste, can be found in good numbers and sizes, making them a popular target among anglers. Sunfish, including bluegill and other panfish species, provide opportunities for family-friendly fishing outings. Catfish, including channel catfish and flathead catfish, offer a unique and exciting angling experience for those targeting these bottom-dwelling predators.
Boat launch ramps require payment of a fee to the City of Mattoon. Sandy beaches, rip-rap rock, grass and trees line the 55 miles of shoreline which welcome fishing enthusiasts and vacationers alike. The best fishing here is for bass, saugeye, hybrid striped bass, crappie, bluegill and catfish. Crappie get the most attention due to great fishing.
Primary fish species residing in Lake Mattoon
Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.
Lake Mattoon Amenities
Marina: YES
Boat Rental: NO
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: YES
Lodging: NEARBY
Convenience Store: YES
Bait & Tackle: YES
Restaurant: YES
Today's Weather & Forecast
In addition to fishing, Lake Mattoon offers ample 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 enjoying a peaceful kayak ride, Lake Mattoon provides a serene and beautiful environment for boating adventures.
Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings
Lake Mattoon Marina Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid lake, west side, at the west end of the 1250 N Road Bridge, this is a three-lane, concrete ramp with docks and paved parking.
Marinas
Lake Mattoon Marina
1282 County Rd 3600 E
Neoga, IL 62447
217 895-2922
Fishing Guides On Lake Mattoon
G & G Outdoors 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 spend more time enjoying the natural beauty of Lake Mattoon, the lake offers camping facilities. Surrounding the lake are well-maintained campgrounds that provide a peaceful and scenic setting for outdoor enthusiasts. Camping at Lake Mattoon allows visitors to wake up to breathtaking views, fish from the shore, or simply relax in the tranquility of nature. The campgrounds offer amenities such as picnic areas, hiking trails, and fishing docks, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience.
Campgrounds & RV Parks Nearby
Lake Mattoon Campground & Marina - 217 254-6680
Lakeview Ranch RV Park - 217 549-8217
Lake Mattoon IL Map - Fishing & Camping Areas
Contact Information
Lake Mattoon
Lake Mattoon Campground & Marina
1290 County Rd 3600 E
Neoga, IL 62447
217 254-6680
Fishing lakes in each state.
082824
Lake Mattoon in IL
ILLINOIS
Fishing for crappie, saugeye and hybrid striped bass in central IL.
