Illinois Trout Season Begins April 4th

The 2026 Illinois spring trout fishing season will open April 4 at 58 ponds, lakes, and streams statewide, with an early catch-and-release period already underway at select locations. During the early season, anglers must release all trout caught, while the regular harvest season allows a daily limit of five trout per angler.

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources stocks more than 80,000 rainbow trout each spring, with additional stockings planned for the fall season. Funding for the program is supported through the sale of inland trout stamps purchased by anglers.

Several updates have been announced for 2026, including new or returning stocking locations in McHenry, Macon, Wayne, and Adams counties. Officials also remind anglers that harvesting trout before the April 4 opener is prohibited and may result in citations.

Spring trout season is a great way for families and outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy Illinois' natural resources. Senate Republicans encourage residents to take advantage of local fishing opportunities while following regulations that help maintain healthy fish populations in the present and future.

Anglers are required to have a valid fishing license and trout stamp unless exempt. More information, including site-specific regulations, is available at https://ifishillinois.org/.