Bakers Lake
Info / LaSalle County
Family Friendly
No
Handicap Access
Yes
Boat Fishing
No
Boat Ramps
No
Boat Rentals
No
Camping
No
Picnicking
Yes
Skiing
No
Swimming
No
Trout Stocking
No
Zebra Mussels
None
Location 8 acres
Fishing Outlook
Largemouth Bass
Average
The 2024 sample showed that the Largemouth population is strong; the dominate size group collected in 2024 was in the 12- to 15-inch range. Catch rates for fish greater than 12 inches increased from the 2021 survey. Reduced aquatic vegetation would help Largemouth Bass feed on the abundant small Bluegill.
Redear Sunfish
Good
Despite Bakers Lake being a shallow lake in northern Illinois, the Redear Sunfish population has improved since they were first stocked in 1999. Redear accounted for 13% of all fish sampled. The lake's abundant snail population is providing excellent food for Redear Sunfish. The current size distribution is going to provide for quality fishing in the future.
Bluegill
Fair
Bakers Lake historically has had ups and downs with Bluegill populations, which have coincided with Largemouth Bass population densities. The Bluegill population continues to lack numbers of quality-sized, 6-inch and larger fish. Reduced aquatic vegetation will help to reduce Bluegill numbers overall and provide better food and space resources for the remaining fish.
| 2025 | Channel Catfish | Advanced Fingerling (4 - 7") | 216 |
| 2024 | Channel Catfish | Fingerling (1 - 3") | 120 |
| 2023 | Channel Catfish | Advanced Fingerling (4 - 7") | 200 |
Contact
136 East Chestnut Street
815-456-2878
Description
Bakers Lake is owned by the city of Peru and the fishery is managed by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources Division of Fisheries. A picnic area, shelters and restrooms are available for use at the lake.Site Regulations
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: 14 inch Minimum Length Limit; 1 Fish Daily Harvest Limit