Monee Reservoir

Redear Sunfish

Developing

The Fall 2023 electrofishing survey resulted in a total of 9 Redear Sunfish collected ranging from 4.2 in to 9.9 in, with 9 of those fish > 4.0 in. Average length was 8.6 in. This was similar to the 2021 Survey catch, though Preferred-sized fish were not collected in 2021. The fishery is still developing and hopefully the recent supplemental stockings will create a flourishing fishery capable of utilizing the abundant Chinese Mystery Snail population.

Largemouth Bass

Very Good

The Fall 2023 electrofishing survey resulted in a total of 47 Largemouth Bass collected ranging from 5.1 in to 20.1 in, with 46 of those fish > 8.0 in. Average length was 14.1 in. Largemouth Bass catch rates declined from the Fall 2021 survey and were just under the target threshold of 1.1/minute. However, the size distribution improved with a higher average length and PSD-P. Body condition, however, was poor for all but Stock-sized fish. This is in contrast to the Fall 2021 survey where body condition was above the 90th percentile. Site Regulation: 15-inch Minimum Length Limit (1 Fish Daily Harvest Limit).

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.

Bluegill

Very Good

The Fall 2023 electrofishing survey resulted in a total of 58 Bluegill collected ranging from 1.2 in to 8.7 in, with 43 of those fish > 3.0. Average length was 5.1 in. Bluegill catch rates declined slightly from the previous survey, though similar to Largemouth Bass, the size structure of the sample improved with an average length of 5.1 inches and a PSD-P of 23. This is likely caused by the substantial collection of large Bluegill in a particular area on the Northwest shore. Body condition was quite good for all size groups suggesting good growth should be occurring.