Burning Star - Island Lake
Info / Jackson County
Family Friendly
No
Handicap Access
No
Boat Fishing
Yes - No wake only
Boat Ramps
Yes
Boat Rentals
No
Camping
No
Picnicking
No
Skiing
No
Swimming
No
Trout Stocking
No
Zebra Mussels
None
Location 216 acres
Island Lake is located within the Burning Star State Fish and Wildlife Area in Jackson County just north of DeSoto. From State Highway 51, turn onto Keeling Cemetery Road and follow the signs to the parking area and boat launch. There is a single lane concrete boat ramp.
Fishing Outlook
White Crappie
Poor
No White Crappie were collected in the 2024 survey.
Largemouth Bass
Poor
This Lake is connected to the Little Muddy River and the fish population resembles the Little River Muddy River's fish population. Lots of rough species (buffalo, gar, carp, etc). As a result the bass population is poor.
White Bass
Fair
Three White Bass (12-16 inches) were collected in the 2024 survey.
Flathead Catfish
Fair
No Flathead Catfish were collected in the 2024 survey. However, Flathead Catfish have been caught in this lake.
Redear Sunfish
Poor
No Redear Sunfish were collected in the 2024 survey.
Bluegill
Poor
No Bluegill over 7 inches were collected in the 2024 survey.
Black Crappie
Poor
Only one Black Crappie (ten inches) was collected in the 2024 spring survey.
Channel Catfish
Fair
No Channel Catfish were collected in the 2024 survey. However, Channel Catfish have been caught in this lake.
Contact
483 Mine Road, DeSoto, Illinois 62824
618-521-8873
Description
There is a single lane concrete boat ramp at this 216 acre lake.Fishery History
Annual fish sampling began in the spring of 2024. Island Lake is attached to the Little Muddy River. Any species found in the Little Muddy River is also found in Island Lake, including Silver Carp. No spring survey was completed in 2025 as a result of sustained flooding/high water preventing access to Island Lake during the Spring of 2025. Management opportunities (stocking) at this lake are limited due to the connection to the Little Muddy River.
Site Regulations
CLOSED FISHING SEASON (all lakes and ponds within Burning Star): Fishing is prohibited from November 1 through the end of February.
There is no horsepower boat motor restriction but all boats must operate at no wake speed.
Site-Specific Fishing Regulations (all lakes and ponds within Burning Star):
- Recreational Use Restriction: Waterfowl Refuge or Hunting Area (see above)
- All Fish: 2 pole and line fishing only and each pole must not have more than 2 hooks or lures attached while fishing; bow fishing is allowed
- Bluegill or Redear Sunfish: 25 fish daily limit
- Channel Catfish: 6 fish daily limit
- Large or Smallmouth Bass: Protected slot length limit with 6 fish daily limit: 1 fish greater than or equal to 18 inches and 5 fish less than 14 inches. Anglers may not possess any bass that is greater than 14 and less than 18 inches in length
- White, Black, or Hybrid Crappie: 25 fish daily limit
Additional Information
Planning to eat your catch? Fish Consumption Advisory information can be found here: Fish Consumption Advisory Page
Burning Star State Fish and Wildlife Area Information Sheet – All Lakes and Ponds
Site Maps
