The stocking of catchable trout for the fall season is on hold until water temperatures are more suitable for the trout, the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) announced today. Unusually warm weather in Illinois this fall has delayed the cooling of lakes and ponds across the state.
Trout stocked in waters warmer than 68 degrees could experience high mortality. IDNR will stock the early catch-and-release sites as soon as water temperatures cool. Sites are expected to be stocked by October 31st. The public will be provided stocking updates on IDNR’s ifishillinois.org website and social media channels for IDNR.
While the official opening date for the fall trout season remains Saturday, October 18th, anglers should be aware that trout will not be present at many sites on opening day. The stocking delay also will affect the early-season catch-and-release opportunities at sites statewide.
IDNR biologists are monitoring water temperatures statewide, and stocking will proceed as soon as conditions allow. Once temperatures decline, IDNR hatchery staff will begin deliveries, incorporating the early-season fish into the regular fall stocking schedule.
All anglers who participate in trout fishing must have an Illinois fishing license and inland trout stamp, which are available at IDNR license and permit locations, including many bait shops, sporting goods stores and other retail outlets. Check the IDNR website for locations. Fishing licenses and trout stamps can also be purchased online.
For information about all site regulations, anglers should contact individual sites that will be stocked with catchable-size trout. Not all sites open at 5 a.m. on opening day. Anglers are reminded to check the opening time of their favorite sites prior to the open date.
IDNR reinstated its Catchable Trout Program in 1994. The program is funded in part by those who use the program through the sale of inland trout stamps. IDNR stocks more than 80,000 rainbow trout each year in bodies of water where trout fishing is permitted during the fall season. An additional 80,000 trout are stocked for the spring season, which begins each April. Go online for more information on trout seasons and locations.