Horton Lake
Location 13 acres
Fishing Outlook
Bluegill
Average
The Bluegill population at Horton Lake has historically been characterized by a high density of fish measuring 3-6” in less than desirable body condition, however the size structure is improving. In 2024, 35% of the catchable Bluegill population exceeded 6”. Bluegill were collected at a rate of 106 fish per hour of electrofishing. The Bluegill population should continue to improve now that the Largemouth Bass population has rebounded.
Northern Pike
Poor
One Northern Pike was sampled in 2023. It measured 30.6” and weighed 5.15lbs. Northern Pike are no longer stocked in Horton Lake, however there are still a few fish in this population.
Largemouth Bass
Very Good
The Largemouth Bass fishery has improved in recent years. Largemouth Bass stockings, coupled with vegetation treatments, have contributed to the improvement of this fishery. The 2024 fish survey yielded 156 Largemouth Bass per hour of electrofishing. Fish ranged from 3.4 – 19.9”, meeting the management goal of 60 fish/hour. The largest fish weighed 4.6lbs. 20.5% of the catchable Largemouth Bass exceeded 15”.
Channel Catfish
Good
Nine Channel Catfish were collected in 2024, yielding a rate of 18 fish per hour of electrofishing. Fish ranged from 15.8 – 25.2”. 88.9% of the catchable-sized Channel Catfish measured 16” or greater. Channel Catfish are stocked from the State Hatchery system on an annual basis. The current Channel Catfish regulation is a 6 Fish Daily Harvest Limit with No Minimum Length Limit.
Rainbow Trout
Very Good
Rainbow Trout are stocked in the spring and fall in Horton Lake as part of the Catchable Trout Program. This put-and-take fishery offers anglers an opportunity to participate in trout fishing.
Black Crappie
Fair
Black Crappie were collected at a rate of 22 fish per hour in 2024. Fish ranged from 2.4 – 9.2”. 50% of the catchable sized fish exceeded 8”. Sampling crappie species can be challenging with electrofishing equipment since they tend to inhabit deeper waters when water temperatures are warm. There is currently no restriction on crappie harvest at Horton Lake.
| 2025 | Channel Catfish | Advanced Fingerling (4 - 7") | 260 |
| 2025 | Rainbow Trout | Adult | 700 |
| 2024 | Channel Catfish | Fingerling (1 - 3") | 156 |
| 2024 | Rainbow Trout | Adult | 729 |
| 2023 | Channel Catfish | NonVulnerable (8 - 10") | 260 |
Contact
IDNR Fisheries Biologist
IDNR Pittsfield Field Office 1252 West Washington Street Pittsfield, IL 62363
Send Message
(217) 622-7219
217-453-2512
Description
Horton Lake was built in 1967 to provide fishing opportunity to patrons of Nauvoo State Park. A primitive boat ramp and bank fishing are available. Only electric trolling motors are allowed. No swimming is allowed. The lake features clear water and a peaceful setting that also offers camping, picnic areas, hiking trails and even a museum. Horton Lake is one of several lakes across Illinois that offers the Catchable Trout Program. Catchable size Rainbow Trout are stocked every spring and fall. Anglers must possess an inland trout stamp, in addition to a valid sportfishing license to participate in this program.Fishery History
Other species present in this lake include Redear Sunfish and Hybrid Sunfish. The lake receives Channel Catfish stockings. Catchable size Rainbow Trout are stocked every spring and fall.Site Regulations
Boats can be powered by electric trolling motors only. No swimming is allowed.
Site-Specific Fishing Regulations:
- All Fish: 2 pole and line fishing only and each pole must not have more than 2 hooks or lures attached while fishing
- Channel Catfish: 6 Fish Daily Harvest Limit
- Large or Smallmouth Bass: 18 inch Minimum Length Limit; 1 Fish Daily Harvest Limit
- Trout: Fall Closed Season; Spring Closed Season; 5 Fish Daily Harvest Limit; Early Season Catch and Release Fishing is permitted