While all of the more than 40 lakes in the forest preserves are man made, it is usually really hard to tell. Not to mention, they are excellent places for really great outdoor recreation.
A number of lakes have hard-surface trails for accessibility and nearly all of them have easy access from a nearby parking lot. Bass, walleye, catfish, sunfish, and even muskie and trout are out there waiting for you to catch.
Outboard motors are available on the rivers, while lakes only allow electric motors (remove your gas motor before launching to avoid a fine). Paddles and sails are ok too of course. Ice fishing is allowed on a limited number of lakes.
So grab your pole and your family or friends and head out to one of the fully-stocked lakes near you. Be sure to check out the forest preserves’ excellent fishing guide for more info.
Here’s where we’d go first:
- Busse Reservoir near Elk Grove (there are actually muskee here and boat rentals)
- Tampier Lake in Palos (you can rent a boat here too)
- The Skokie Lagoons (these are extensive and you can rent kayaks)
- And near the city, check out Powderhorn Lake on the southeast side