Illinois River
Published: Updated:
Species
Smallmouth BassSeason
Illinois River Overview
Top Techniques Reported for Smallmouth Bass + Winter
- Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19')1
Largemouth Bass1 Report
Smallmouth Bass1 Report
Recent and Trending Baits
Fishing Reports
12 Reports on Illinois RiverSort by
Species
Largemouth BassSeason
Winter
Technique
Finesse Jigs
Structure
Points
Forage
Crawfish
Water Temperature
48°
Species
Largemouth BassSeason
Fall
Technique
Soft Jerkbaits
Structure
Submerged Vegetation
Forage
Minnows
Was doing a little ultralight fishing at a local pond then moved to the river. Was casting around the bank as well as by some fountains towards the middle of the pond. Ended up having a great day with 10 fish caught in about an hour.
Species
Smallmouth BassSeason
Winter
Technique
Vertical Jigging 10-19'
Structure
Points
Forage
Shad
Water Temperature
42°
Had to fight for them today, but once I found them it was domination. It’s cold out and the river is high. That’s not going to stop me from one-upping Mother Nature. Bass and walleyes were all 7-10 feet deep off of points relating to baitfish. I’ve told you all before “find the bait-find the fish,” and find the fish I did! It’s all about vertical jigging right now. Just like Usher used to sing “nice and slow, that’s the tempo.” Get on top of em and work the bait slow. The FF minnow was a finesse touch that sealed the deal. Like Tony Danza my Damiki Vault showed a few young walleyes “who’s the boss.” Great day on the water and I am damn proud to be an American. See you in the woods or on the water! -GrundyBassman
Top Fishing Techniques
for Smallmouth Bass + WinterChoose from techniques based on Illinois River fishing reports.

















