Stocking and Protecting Fish at Shabbona Lake

Posted Wednesday May 31, 2017 by wf_admin

One of Illinois’ most popular lakes will continue to be a favorite with anglers, thanks to Wildlife Forever. Home of the current Illinois state record muskie, 320-acre Shabbona Lake is located within Shabbona Lake State Park, which receives over 400,000 visitors per year, making it one of the most heavily fished lakes, per acre, in the state of Illinois. In response to this fishing pressure, Wildlife Forever and several local fishing clubs began a muskie and walleye restocking project, which was coordinated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. The stocked muskies were at least 10 inches long and the walleyes were at least 8 inches long, ensuring a greater chance of survival. In addition, a spillway barrier was constructed, protecting large fish from going into the creek below the lake during high water.