Beaver Lake - SSFWA
Location 5 acres
Fishing Outlook
Bluegill
Fair
The spring 2024 electrofishing survey resulted in a total of 126 Bluegill collected ranging from 48 mm (1.9 inches) to 184 mm (7.2 inches), with 109 of those fish greater than Stock size (3.0 inches). Average length was 119 mm (4.7 inches). Compared to the 2022 survey, the Bluegill collected in 2024 had a poorer size distribution. However, substantially more fish were collected in the survey, which could be attributed to sampling during the nighttime.
Channel Catfish
Fair
Non-vulnerable Channel Catfish are requested from the state hatchery system on a triennial basis. Natural reproduction is not expected, and this fishery could be classified as a “put-grow-take” fishery.
Largemouth Bass
Average
The spring 2024 electrofishing survey resulted in a total of 102 Largemouth Bass collected ranging from 162 mm (6.4 inches) to 535 mm (21.1 inches), with 82 of those fish longer than Stock size (8.0 inches). Average length was 243 mm (9.6" inches). Size distribution indicates that not many fish are reaching legal size and age data suggests this is due to poor growth. The majority of fish collected were Stock-sized (n = 78) and only four were Quality-sized or larger (12 inches; as is reflected in the average length). Catch rates were much higher than the Spring 2022 survey, which is likely (in part) a result of electrofishing at nighttime.
Redear Sunfish
Average
The spring 2024 electrofishing survey resulted in a total of 39 Redear Sunfish collected ranging from 107 mm (4.2 inches) to 215 mm (8.5 inches), with 39 of those fish greater than Stock size (4.0 inches). Average length was 161 mm (6.3 inches). The Redear Sunfish catch increased substantially from the 2022 survey, likely in part to the nighttime aspect of the sampling effort. Size distribution shifted, with proportionately more Quality-sized fish (7 inches and larger) collected in the 2024 survey. Average length remained about the same.
| 2024 | Channel Catfish | NonVulnerable (8 - 10") | 90 |
Contact
630-553-6297
Description
A total of seven gravel pits are located at this state site and contain a variety of warm-water fish species, while the two largest, Beaver Lake (4.5 acres) and Big Lake (also known as Loon Lake; 22.0 acres), are actively managed and will provide the most consistent action. Beaver Lake has a maximum depth of 14 feet and averages 8 feet. It does not have a formal boat ramp but there is a small gravel access for personal watercraft launching. A concession stand located at the park provides paddle boat rental, bait, food and drinks. A one-lane concrete boat ramp on the Fox River is present as well.
Fishery History
To monitor the fish population, Beaver Lake is surveyed biennially. Aquatic vegetation is monitored annually and treated as required and fluridone has been utilized in early spring applications to arrest the growth of Eurasian milfoil and curly-leaf pondweed. These applications have generally provided control for multiple seasons. Aquatic habitat projects have included the introduction and establishment of selected emergent aquatic plants, as well as man-made structures placed in mid-water locations.Site Regulations
Boaters – Electric trolling motor only.
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: 15 inch Minimum Length Limit; 6 Fish Daily Harvest Limit
Additional Information
Planning to eat your catch? Fish Consumption Advisory information can be found here: Fish Consumption Advisory PageBath Map
