Giant City State Park - Piney Pond

Info / Union County

Location 1 acres

Giant City State Park is located in Jackson and Union counties south of Carbondale, Illinois. Piney Pond is located on the southeast side of the park and can be reached after a 0.5-mile hike.

Fishing Outlook

Recent Stocking History
2025 Channel Catfish NonVulnerable (8 - 10") 61
2024 Channel Catfish NonVulnerable (8 - 10") 36

Contact

Abell, Nicholas
IDNR Fisheries Biologist
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Description

Piney Pond is a 1-acre impoundment managed for quality Bluegill and Redear Sunfish fishing. The perimeter of the pond is clear of brush and mowed to provide access for anglers. There are no docks or restrooms on site, although restrooms are available at the Giant City Visitors Center.

Fishery History

The most recent electrofishing survey at Piney Pond was during June of 2025. Piney Pond contains a fish community that is typical for a small pond, containing an abundance of small bass that drive fast growth rates of Bluegill and Redear Sunfish.  Channel Catfish are stocked annually in Piney Pond. Some anglers report catching and harvesting their limit of 6 catfish per day during the summer months.

Site Regulations

  • All Fish: 2 pole and line fishing only and each pole must not have more than 2 hooks or lures attached while fishing
  • Bluegill or Redear Sunfish: 15 Fish Daily Harvest Limit
  • 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 Page