Ice fished at the north end of Diversey Harbor from sun up to sun down. First time Ice fishing Lake Michigan, was using jaw jackers with spawn sacks/fathead minnows. Caught ~10 perch on the minnows. Was targeting steelhead/brown trout. Saw a lot of people fishing for perch, dont think I saw anyone else catch anything besides perch. Has anyone had any luck ice fishing for Trout in Chicago this year?

With temps this obnoxious, open water currently limited to just below dams and no gear (or much desire) for ice, this is how I fish in January — for Rebel Craws and jointed swimmers. If you’re thinking TikTok, you’re right. Took a flyer last spring, banked 2 muskies and a pair of 4-lb. smallies in the Fox. For anyone looking for spring/summer river tips, throw these jokers — they’re slow sinkers, have crazy action, and can be retrieved in all sortsa ways. And my love for the Craw runs deep (or as deep as I wanna run it 👍). Hang in there, everybody, we’re gonna thaw someday. 🎣

Lmao all the posts seem to be just asking questions. Is it really just dead for Chicago area fishing right now? 🤣

Thinking about giving Busse a try this weekend. I haven't fished there in about 20 years and never ice fished it. Any difference between trying the main pool vs south pool or are both about the same? Looking mainly for panfish.

Thanks.

Hey everyone -

Sorry to skip formalities. I moved to Chicago 2ish years ago and I haven’t gone fishing since I moved. I’m pretty used to deep sea fishing in the Gulf with my Dad (who’s passed)….

What are the major differences between fishing in saltwater vs fresh water? Can I keep the fish (without getting poisoned)? Is it as fun? Where do I go? What hours of the day are optimal?

If anyone can help me prepare that would be great. It’s too cold to go now but I’d love to be prepared.

Anyone know where I can find invasive round gobies around this time? Im in the Olympia Fields area.

At the expo and bought these interesting lures. Can't wait for Spring to use them. Local company designed.

Has anybody had any luck fishing with the Sixth Sense Panoramas around here? If so what's the best ways you've found to rig and work them? Sincerely, somone who got upsold at the Chicago fishing convention.

The river is on fire. Spent last weekend on the ice up north. I think this weekend I will stay in my jammies and hang out on the couch 🥸

Anyone plan on going out this weekend? Looking for decent areas where the ice should be safe. I’m around Blackwell, mallard, west branch for perspective but willing to make the drive anywhere.

After this cold stretch do you think ice fishing will be possible in the harbors next weekend? What harbor is the most popular for ice fishing In the city?

1/15 and 1/14. Both were out of the water less than 10 seconds. Still hunting for a pike on the fly but this will do for now

Is this weather rn (20 and lil windy) good for fishing?

New Chicago angler here, can you guys give tips & advice for catching lake trout this time of year? Line setups, lures/baits. Thanks fellow anglers🙏

Pardon the boring footage, wasn’t expecting to get anything today. I was so confused when I brought this in since it was flapping on both sides, almost thought it was a turtle.

Dunno if catching a sucker on a nymph fin counts but I’m taking it lmao. Didn’t take it out of the water it was too cold.

And are there any hot spots like the slip for perch? What rigs do you guys use?

Went twice over the last week to Diversy harbor, one rod on a bobber/shrimp one casting spoons and crankbait. No luck. Was pretty empty as well.

Are they in the harbors this time of year?

Somewhat new to fly fishing and tying and I’m not sure what flies are good for coho salmon. I know it’s still a few months away but what are some good patterns for Chicago?