Horseshoe Lake - Alexander

Largemouth Bass

Poor

The bass fishery in Horseshoe Lake is severely constrained by low abundance. Only two were collected during the 2022 electrofishing survey.

Channel Catfish

Good

During fall of 2024, a targeted catfish survey was attempted using tandem baited hoop nets (3 nets tied in series; baited with Zote Soap). Unfortunately, no catfish were collected. Electrofishing surveys conducted during past years have yielded low numbers of Channel Catfish, but size was generally good. Although population data from surveys is limited, anglers report that the lake supports a good fishery for catfish.

Bowfin

Excellent

Bowfin are numerous in Horseshoe Lake and should provide good opportunities for bow fishing and anglers with the proper gear. Bowfin are aggressive predators and very strong fighters. Similar to Gar, Bowfin are a native species and should not be viewed in the same context as invasive species.

Bluegill

Average

Only 31 Bluegill were collected during 2022 surveys, of which 2 were right at 8 inches in length. Body condition was very good. Horseshoe Lake used to harbor one of the premier Bluegill fisheries in Illinois. However, a variety of environmental factors and an influx of riverine species have severely impacted the Bluegill fishery.

Gar spp.

Excellent

Spotted Gar are numerous in Horseshoe Lake and should provide excellent opportunities for bow fishing. Individuals over 5 lbs have been collected during surveys. Similar to Bowfin, gar are a native species and should not be viewed in the same context as invasive species.

Crappie spp.

Good

Horseshoe Lake contains a crappie population consisting of both Black and White Crappie. During fall of 2024, a targeted crappie trap net survey was completed, yielding 9 Black Crappie and 38 White Crappie. Black Crappie ranged in length from 5.9" to 13.2", while White Crappie ranged in length from 4.9" to 13.1". The size structure of crappie in Horseshoe Lake is very good, as 49% of crappie in the sample were over 10" and 19% were over 12". Length-at-age data collected during previous years demonstrated favorable growth rates among both Black and White Crappie. In summary, Horseshoe Lake still supports a good crappie fishery despite significant declines in Bluegill and Largemouth bass fisheries.