Monee Reservoir
Location 44 acres
Fishing Outlook
Redear Sunfish
Very Good
The Spring 2025 targeted sunfish electrofishing survey resulted in a total of 36 Redear Sunfish collected ranging from 104 mm (4.1 in) to 288 mm (11.3 in), with 36 of those fish > Stock size (100 mm [4.0 in]). Average length was 232 mm (9.1 in). Redear Sunfish catch rates were as expected for a fishery dominated by larger individuals (Preferred-sized individuals made up the majority of the catch). This population appears to be exhibiting excellent growth.
Largemouth Bass
Very Good
The Spring 2025 targeted sunfish electrofishing survey resulted in a total of 88 Largemouth Bass collected ranging from 155 mm (6.1 in) to 434 mm (17.1 in), with 86 of those fish > Stock size (200 mm [8.0 in]). Average length was 366 mm (14.4 in). Largemouth Bass catch rate was excellent, particularly the catch rate of PSD-P fish (i.e., legal-sized fish). Size structure metrics looked great, with PSD and PSD-P values of 91 and 57 respectively. Site Regulation: 15-inch Minimum Length Limit (1 Fish Daily Harvest Limit).
Bluegill
Very Good
The Spring 2025 targeted sunfish electrofishing survey resulted in a total of 50 Bluegill collected ranging from 44 mm (1.7 in) to 216 mm (8.5 in), with 41 of those fish > Stock size (80 mm [3.0 in]). Average length was 120 mm (4.7 in). Bluegill catch rate was as expected considering the size structure of fish observed (both PSD and PSD-P values at 37 and 12 respectively). This population appears to have excellent growth potential given that mean length-at-age was above the ecoregion’s 50th percentile for every year-class.
Channel Catfish
Average
The Fall 2023 electrofishing survey resulted in one Channel Catfish measuring 29.3 in collected. Electrofishing is not typically used to evaluate Channel Catfish populations, and as such this survey does not provide a good assessment of the fishery. Channel Catfish are stocked annually. Site Regulation: 6 Fish Daily Harvest Limit.
Yellow Perch
Developing
Yellow Perch were absent from the Fall 2023 Community survey but have been collected in previous years. This is an illegally introduced, undesirable fish species.
Black Crappie
Average
The Fall 2023 electrofishing survey resulted in a total of 3 Black Crappie collected ranging from 2.4 in to 10.7 in, with 2 of those fish > 5.0 in. Average length was 7.3 in. Electrofishing is not a standard gear for evaluating Crappie populations and Fall trap netting is typically conducted to understand these fisheries. Site Regulation: 15 Fish Daily Harvest Limit.
| 2025 | Black Crappie | Fingerling (1 - 3") | 2500 |
| 2025 | Channel Catfish | Advanced Fingerling (4 - 7") | 550 |
| 2024 | Blacknose Crappie | Fingerling (1 - 3") | 2200 |
| 2024 | Largemouth Bass | Advanced Fingerling (4 - 7") | 107 |
| 2023 | Blacknose Crappie | Fingerling (1 - 3") | 2342 |
Contact
708-534-8499
Description
Monee Reservoir is a dug and dammed impoundment constructed in 1916 as a water supply source for steam locomotives. Monee Reservoir was leased and managed by the Izaak Walton League from 1928 through the 1960s. Various lease holders operated the reservoir on a club basis throughout the 1970s. The property was purchased in the 1980s by the Forest Preserve District of Will County. The reservoir was drained, dredged and enlarged in 1990-91 and opened to the public in 1992. Monee Reservoir has a maximum depth of 27.0 feet with an average depth of 9.1 feet and covers 46 surface acres. Monee Reservoir offers diverse habitats, both natural and man-made. The majority of the shoreline is closed to bank fishing and therefore much of the fishery receives modest angling pressure. An on-site concession stand provides bait, tackle, ice, food, and soft drinks.Fishery History
Monee Reservoir is routinely surveyed on a biennial basis, but other surveys may take place as circumstances dictate. Aquatic vegetation is managed by FPDWC, in cooperation with the IDNR. Monee Reservoir receives annual stockings of Channel Catfish and Black Crappie. The Northern Pike stocking program was terminated in 2005.Site Regulations
Fishing is open daily during open water. Ice fishing is prohibited. Swimming is prohibited. Carry-in boats and electric trolling motor only.
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: 15 inch Minimum Length Limit; 1 Fish Daily Harvest Limit
- White, Black, or Hybrid Crappie: 15 Fish Daily Harvest Limit
Additional Information
Planning to eat your catch? Fish Consumption Advisory information can be found here: Fish Consumption Advisory PageBath Map
