The Absolute Best Fishing in Chicago [Updated 2024]

With over a decade of experience casting lines in countless spots throughout the city, I've compiled a list of my top 12 favorite fishing destinations in Chicago. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just looking to reel in some fun, this guide has got you covered.

From the shores of Lake Michigan to hidden lagoons and urban ponds, there's no shortage of great fishing locations in the Windy City. So grab your gear and let's dive into the best fishing in Chicago!

Storm Warning Chicago Fishing Charters

Highlights
Professional
Kid-friendly
Cleanest boat
Emphasizes safety
Talented fish filleting

As soon as I arrived at the marina, I noticed that their boat was sparkling clean, which immediately gave me an impression of professionalism. Captain Bob and his crew were also very welcoming and kid-friendly, making it a great option for families.

During the trip, Captain Bob made sure to emphasize safety while still having a good time. He knew all the best spots to catch fish and provided us with top-notch equipment. The fishing experience itself was incredible! We caught several types of fish including salmon and trout.

But what really stood out to me was the talented fish filleting by Captain Bob himself! It was truly impressive how quickly and efficiently he cleaned our catches for us to take home.

Overall, Storm Warning Chicago Fishing Charters is definitely one of the best fishing experiences in Chicago. The combination of professionalism, emphasis on safety, and talented fish filleting make this charter stand out from the rest. Don't miss out on a chance to catch some amazing fish with Captain Bob!

You might also want to check out the best fish and chips in Naperville.

Skyline Fishing Charters

First off, let me tell you, the staff at Skyline Fishing Charters are as cool as a cucumber. They're patient and helpful, which is great for beginners like me who get tangled up in their own line. The boat was clean and spacious with plenty of room to reel in some big catches. And boy did we catch some! I reeled in a massive trout that could feed a small village. Overall, my experience with Skyline Fishing Charters was top-notch and I'd highly recommend them to anyone looking for a great fishing adventure in Chicago.

You might also want to check out the best fish and chips in Schaumburg.

Chicago Charter Boat Company

Highlights
Perfect day of fishing
Excellent fishery in Chicago
Professional and knowledgeable captain
Great equipment & top-notch service

First of all, I want to say that it was a perfect day of fishing thanks to this charter company. The fishery in Chicago is excellent and our captain knew all the best spots to catch some real beauties.

Speaking of our captain, he was incredibly professional and knowledgeable. He shared with us some great tips and tricks on how to reel in the biggest catch of the day. Plus, he had a great sense of humor which made the trip even more enjoyable.

The equipment provided by Chicago Charter Boat Company was top-notch. We were supplied with everything we needed for a successful fishing trip including bait, tackle, and even cold drinks! The boat itself was clean and spacious which made for a comfortable ride.

Overall, I highly recommend Chicago Charter Boat Company for any fishing enthusiasts out there. They offer great service and really know how to make your trip unforgettable. So grab your fishing gear and head on over to this amazing charter company for an experience you won't forget!

You might also want to check out the best shopping in Naperville.

Captain Bob's Confusion Chicago Fishing Charters

Highlights
Fun atmosphere
Experienced crew
Great catch rate
Professional

First and foremost, the atmosphere at Captain Bob's Confusion is nothing short of fun! The crew are incredibly friendly and experienced, making for an overall enjoyable day out on the water.

But let's get down to what really matters: catch rate. I was pleasantly surprised by how many fish we were able to reel in during our trip. It's clear that Captain Bob and his team know where the fish are biting, because we were catching left and right!

Aside from the fun and catch rate, it's worth noting just how professional this operation is. From the moment we stepped onto the boat, everything was organized and clean. And despite being a fun-loving crew, they never once compromised on safety or professionalism.

Overall, I highly recommend Captain Bob's Confusion Chicago Fishing Charters for anyone looking to have a good time while also reeling in some impressive catches. Trust me, you won't be disappointed!

You might also want to check out the best parks in Downers Grove.

Angler Fishing Charters

Highlights
Experienced captain
Comfortable boat
Catching large fish
Knowledgeable guide

First off, let me tell you that the experience was nothing less than extraordinary. Captain Jack was an experienced and knowledgeable guide who made us feel comfortable on his boat while we were waiting patiently for the fish to bite.

The boat itself was a thing of beauty with plenty of space for everyone to move around comfortably without feeling cramped. It also had all the necessary amenities to make our fishing trip as comfortable as possible.

But let's talk about the real reason we were there, catching fish! And boy did we catch some lunkers! We're talking large fish here, folks. I couldn't believe it when I reeled in that huge bass - it felt like I was reeling in a small car!

Captain Jack knew all the best spots and gave us some great tips on baiting and reeling in those big ones. He was truly a knowledgeable guide who made our experience unforgettable.

So if you're looking for a fun day out on the water catching some big fish, look no further than Angler Fishing Charters. Trust me, you won't be disappointed!

You might also want to check out the best parks in Naperville.

Canalport Riverwalk Park

Highlights
Biking and walking trail
Roomy fishing stations
Peaceful on weekends
Industrial site overlook
Clean and well-maintained

First off, let's talk about the fishing stations. They are spacious and well-maintained, offering a comfortable spot for anglers to cast their lines. The park also offers a stunning view of an industrial site which I found fascinating.

Aside from fishing, the park has a biking and walking trail, perfect for those who want to explore the area or take a break from fishing. On weekends, the park is notably peaceful, making it an ideal spot for some quiet reflection.

One thing that impressed me during my visit was how clean and well-kept the park was. It's always reassuring to fish in an environment that is both beautiful and healthy.

Overall, Canalport Riverwalk Park is an excellent option for anyone looking to fish in Chicago. With its beautiful views, roomy fishing stations, and additional amenities like biking trails and walking paths, this park has something for everyone. So grab your tackle box and head on over - you won't be disappointed!

You might also want to check out the best divorce lawyer in Joliet.

Henry C. Palmisano Nature Park

Highlights
Nature sanctuary with skyline views
Plenty of trails for walking and running
Free and easy parking nearby

First of all, let me say that this place is not just a fishing spot, but a nature sanctuary that offers some of the most stunning skyline views you'll ever see. The park features several trails for walking and running, making it an ideal location for outdoor enthusiasts.

Now, onto the fishing. I was pleasantly surprised by the variety of fish that can be caught here. From bass to catfish to bluegill, there's something for everyone. Plus, with plenty of space to cast your line and lots of shady spots to relax in between bites, it's easy to see why this spot is so popular among anglers.

Another great thing about Henry C. Palmisano Nature Park is the free and easy parking nearby. No need to worry about finding a spot or paying exorbitant fees just to fish.

Overall, I highly recommend this park for anyone looking for a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Whether you're an avid angler or simply enjoy being outdoors, Henry C. Palmisano Nature Park has something for everyone. So grab your gear and get ready for a day of fishing fun!

You might also want to check out the best dry cleaners in Naperville.

Kingfisher Chicago Charters

Highlights
Experienced staff
Great fishing
Clean facilities
Helpful and polite
Reasonable prices

First of all, I was impressed by the experienced staff who were knowledgeable about the best fishing spots and techniques. They provided us with top-notch equipment that made our fishing experience even better.

The great fishing at Kingfisher Chicago Charters exceeded my expectations. We caught a variety of fish including bass, trout and salmon. It was an absolute thrill to reel in those big ones! And let me tell you, they weren't just "fish tales."

The facilities were spotless and well-maintained. It was clear that cleanliness is a top priority here. The staff made sure to sanitize our equipment before and after each use which made me feel safe during these times.

What really stood out to me was the helpful and polite staff who went above and beyond to make sure we had an enjoyable experience. From providing tips on how to improve our technique, to offering snacks and drinks, they made us feel like royalty.

To top it all off, the prices were reasonable. It's not often that you can find such great quality fishing experiences at affordable prices like this.

Overall, I would highly recommend Kingfisher Chicago Charters for anyone looking for a fun and exciting fishing trip in Chicago. Their experienced staff, great fishing, clean facilities, helpful nature and reasonable prices make them one of my top picks for the best fishing in Chicago!

You might also want to check out the best daycare in Naperville.

Riverwalk - The Jetty

Highlights
Beautiful views
Cosy atmosphere
Different cafes/bars

Firstly, the views at Riverwalk - The Jetty are absolutely beautiful. You can enjoy the stunning skyline of Chicago while catching fish, which is a rare combination in any city. The location is also quite peaceful and has a cosy atmosphere, making it an ideal place to relax and unwind.

Another highlight of Riverwalk - The Jetty is that there are plenty of cafes and bars nearby that offer different kinds of refreshments. So, if you get tired of fishing, you can always take a break and sip on some coffee or beer.

The best part about this spot is that it's accessible to all levels of anglers, from beginners to professionals. There are plenty of fish species available for catch including bass, catfish, and crappie. I found the fishing experience quite enjoyable as I was able to catch a few decent sized fish during my visit.

Overall, Riverwalk - The Jetty is definitely one of the best spots for fishing in Chicago. The beautiful views, cosy atmosphere and variety of cafes/bars make it an ideal spot for both fishing enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.

You might also want to check out the best daycare in Schaumburg.

Why Knot Chicago Fishing Charters

Highlights
Experienced captain and fisherman
Great for beginners with guidance
Successful fish catches
Fun and educational experience
Highly recommended by previous customers

Firstly, I was greeted by the captain who was not only a seasoned fisherman but also extremely knowledgeable about the best fishing spots in Chicago. As someone who's new to fishing, his guidance and expertise made me feel confident and excited to start our trip.

The highlight of my experience was definitely catching several fish including salmon and trout! The captain knew exactly where to take us and what bait to use. It was a thrilling feeling to reel in those big catches!

What I loved most about Why Knot Chicago Fishing Charters is that it's not just a typical fishing trip - it's an educational experience too. The captain shared interesting facts about the different types of fish we caught and their habitats. It was fascinating to learn more about the ecosystem in Lake Michigan.

Overall, I highly recommend Why Knot Chicago Fishing Charters for anyone looking for a fun and successful fishing excursion in Chicago. It's great for beginners like myself with guidance from an experienced captain, but also perfect for avid fishermen looking for a productive day on the water. Don't just take my word for it - previous customers have also highly recommended this charter!

You might also want to check out the best companies to work for in Naperville.

Casting Pier

Highlights
Family-friendly
Abundant wildlife
Relaxing atmosphere

First of all, I must say that Casting Pier is a family-friendly fishing spot. The pier is spacious and offers plenty of room for families to cast their lines without worrying about getting tangled up with other anglers.

But the best part of Casting Pier is the abundance of wildlife in the area. During my visit, I was able to catch several different species of fish, including bass and catfish. But what really surprised me was the number of birds flying around the pier. It was like a scene straight out of a nature documentary!

The relaxing atmosphere at Casting Pier is also worth mentioning. The sound of waves crashing against the pier creates a sense of calmness that you just can't get in the city. And if you need a break from fishing, there are plenty of benches where you can sit and enjoy the view.

Overall, I highly recommend Casting Pier for anyone looking for a fun and peaceful fishing experience. With its family-friendly environment, abundant wildlife, and relaxing atmosphere, it's definitely one of the best fishing spots in Chicago!

You might also want to check out the best companies to work for in Schaumburg.

Endorfins Fishing Charter

Highlights
Helpful captain&crew
Caught 9+ lake trout
Large & stable boat
Great for families
Informative captains

First off, let me tell you that the captain and crew were incredibly helpful. They made sure we had all the equipment we needed and even gave us some tips on how to reel in the big ones. And let me tell you, we caught more than just a few fish. In fact, we caught over 9 lake trout! Not too shabby if I do say so myself.

The boat itself was quite impressive as well. It was large and stable, which made for a comfortable ride even when the water got a little choppy. I would definitely recommend this charter for families looking to spend a day out on the water.

What really stood out to me though were the captains themselves. They were not only skilled fishermen but also very informative about the fish species and their habits. It was clear they had extensive knowledge about fishing in Chicago's waters.

Overall, my experience with Endorfins Fishing Charter was exceptional thanks to their helpful crew, abundance of fish caught, great boat, family-friendly atmosphere, and informative captains. If you're looking for a fun day out on the water catching some fish in Chicago, then Endorfins is definitely worth checking out!

You might also want to check out the best chiropractor in Naperville.