The Fox Chain O Lakes is a series of 9 main lakes interconnected by channels on the Fox river. It was originally formed by glaciers thousands of years ago and then enhanced by several manmade dams throughout the years. In total, it covers roughly 7,110 acres and is located about 50 miles northwest of Chicago. With its close proximity to Chicago and abundant supply of public and private boat launches, it’s a very popular destination for recreational boaters and anglers. Stocking programs are strong making it a great lake to catch walleye and muskie, but also offer great opportunities to catch largemouth bass, crappie, and catfish. Ice out walleyes can be found in the shallow flats (3-5ft). Casting or trolling crankbaits in the low light hours seem to work best. For early spring crappie and bass focus on the many backwater channels as the water tends to warm up there first. For crappie, float small jigs with a minnow or plastic grubs. Bass can be caught with a jig and creature bait or any whacky rigged worm. As summer approaches, the walleye and muskie start moving deeper towards the middle of the lakes. During the summer, bass will relate to cover and vegetation. Crankbaits, spinnerbaits or soft plastics work well when they are run next to weed lines or embankments.