Tampier, Lake - FPDCC

Northern Pike

Fair

Northern Pike are stocked annually. They are present in the lake and they diversify the predator base to balance the lakes overall fishery, but according to survey data, they do not survive well beyond the legal limit.

Channel Catfish

Average

Catfish are stocked annually at 8” to 10” long to supplement sport fishing opportunities; fish up to 18” were caught during the most recent fish survey and angelrs report catching larger.

Bluegill

Good

Survey data shows Bluegill can exceed 8 inches long, which is a good indicator of “sufficient” predation and a balanced fish population. In northern Illinois, it’s difficult to find and collect Bluegills beyond 8” long in a public lake, but Tampier Lake has them and catching them should be enjoyed. Bluegill abundance is good, their maximum size is good and there is ample shoreline access to try and target them!

Largemouth Bass

Good

Bass were collected at a rate just below the goal. 52% of the sample exceeded 12”, 33% exceeded the legal length limit of 15”, and 7% were over 18” long. The population appears to be stable and anglers targeting bass should be very happy.

Crappie spp.

Average

Both black and white crappie are present, however survey data shows white crappie grow larger (up to 11”) and are more abundant. Crappie are commonly caught near the culverts under 131st Street and in the bay near the dam.

Walleye

Very Good

Walleye survive well in Tampier Lake. Each spring, FPDCC staff collect female broodfish in excess of 10 lbs., and survey data shows fish present between 5” to 22”, suggesting consistent stocking has produced a balanced-size distribution. Anglers targeting Walleye in Tampier Lake can be rewarded with some really nice fish, particularly in the spring!