Braidwood Lake

Largemouth Bass

Very Good

The Fall 2023 community electrofishing survey resulted in a total of 170 Largemouth Bass collected ranging from 4.3 in to 18.8 in, with 75 of those fish > Stock8.0 in]). Average length was 230 mm (9.1 in). Largemouth Bass CPUE slightly increased from the 2021 survey, with a majority of the catch comprising Sub-Stock size fish (which negatively influenced average length). This is also evident in the relatively high YAR value compared to previous years. Size structure was decent with a higher PSD and a very high PSD-P. Body condition of all fish was well above the 90th percentile indicating good forage availability. Site Regulation: 15-inch Minimum Length Limit (3 Fish Daily Limit).

Flathead Catfish

Fair

The Fall 2023 targeted electrofishing survey resulted in a total of 14 Flathead Catfish collected ranging from 6.1 in to 38.4 in, with 10 of those fish > Stock size 14.0 in. Average length was 21.4 in. Multiple sizes of fish were collected, indicating that natural reproduction is occurring. Flathead Catfish were originally stocked many years ago and have managed to hang on.

Striped Bass x White Bass (Wiper)

Average

The Fall 2023 community electrofishing survey resulted in a total of 2 Hybrid Striped Bass collected measuring 447 mm (17.6 in) and 490 mm (19.3 in), with both of those fish > Stock size (200 mm [8.0]). Hybrid Striped Bass catches have historically been mediocre in electrofishing surveys on Braidwood Lake. Targeted Hybrid Striped Bass surveys (utilizing gill nets) are being planned to better assess this popular fishery. Site Regulation: 10 Fish Daily Limit (only 3 Fish > 17 inches).

Channel Catfish

Good

The Fall 2023 community electrofishing survey resulted in a total of 47 Channel Catfish collected ranging from 256 mm (10.1 in) to 692 mm (27.2 in), with 45 of those fish > Stock size (280 mm [11.0 in]). Average length was 383 mm (15.1 in). Channel Catfish CPUE remained high for a community electrofishing survey. High Channel Catfish densities have historically led to poor body condition and size structure, which continues to be evident in the relatively low PSD value and body condition index. A brief YouTube search will reveal the ease with which anglers catch Braidwood Lake Channel Catfish. It would be worthwhile conducting a targeted Channel Catfish survey utilizing baited hoop nets to periodically assess this fishery.

Redear Sunfish

Fair

Excess production in the State Hatchery System has allowed for the stocking of Redear Sunfish on a few occasions, and while not as prevalent as bluegill, larger specimens are occasionally caught.

Bluegill

Fair

The Fall 2023 community electrofishing survey resulted in a total of 354 Bluegill collected ranging from 40 mm (1.6 in) to 180 mm (7.1 in), with 313 of those fish > Stock size (80 mm [3.0 in]). Average length was 113 mm (4.4 in). Bluegill CPUE remained the same as the 2021 survey, with Stock-sized fish making the largest proportion of the catch. Average length remained similar and the PSD value was almost identical, suggesting no size structure change. Body condition was good for all size groups.

Blue Catfish

Good

The Fall 2023 targeted electrofishing survey resulted in a total of 190 Blue Catfish collected ranging from 242 mm (9.5 in) to 878 mm (34.6 in), with 185 of those fish > Stock size (300 mm [12.0 in]). Average length was 434 mm (17.1 in). Overall, the population appears to be comprised of smaller individuals with very few Quality and Preferred-sized fish collected. Body condition was poor overall though the larger size classes had better much improved Wr values. This could be due to some interspecific competition with similar sized, superabundant Channel Catfish.