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MENDOTA, LAKE
Lake Information
County: LaSalle
Acreage: 18
Average Depth: 6 feet
Recreational Amenities
Boat Fishing? Yes, Electric Motor Only
Boat Ramps? Yes
Boat Rental? No
Skiing? No
Swimming? No
Picnicking? Yes
Camping? No
Trout stocked in spring
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There are no zebra mussels in this lake.
Fish Stocking | |||
Year |
Species |
Size |
Count |
2021 |
Channel Catfish |
Advanced Fingerling 4 - 7" |
840 |
2022 |
Bluegill |
Fingerling 1 - 3" |
21879 |
2022 |
Channel Catfish |
Advanced Fingerling 4 - 7" |
840 |
Additional information for stocking on Mendota, Lake
Fishing Outlook ( Full PDF Report )
Click here for a list of all reports.
Species |
Rank |
Fish Status |
Very Good | The Bluegill population historically was a low-density population that produced few large individuals. Stockings of Bluegill were done to boost bluegill numbers post summer fish kills. The 2022 survey showed increased catch numbers for all size classes. Most notably, the increased numbers in the 8–10-inch fish will be enjoyed by anglers. The increase in population numbers will help to feed the dense Largemouth Bass population, but also help to control Largemouth and Yellow Perch reproduction. | |
Good | Good numbers of fish in the 12-24 inch range, with good chance at fish larger than 25 inches, are in the lake. Channel Catfish are stocked annually. | |
Average | Black Crappie are present in Lake Mendota, but are in low density. The few Black Crappie that do show up in samples have been of quality size and in good condition. Anglers have reported some good catches in the past year. | |
Very Good | Lake Mendota did have a history of a poor Largemouth population with poor to average growth. Regulation changes in 1992 to the current regulation have produced a quality Largemouth population. The 2022 sample showed a diverse population. Total catch per unit effort (CPUE) was similar to the 2021 survey. Fish in the 15-20 size group have not rebounded to pre-2019 numbers. | |
Excellent | Rainbow Trout are stocked in the Spring. | |
Location: Lake Mendota is a small 18-acre lake located on just off Illinois Route 251 in Mendota Illinois.
Description: Lake Mendota is owned by the city of Mendota and the Fishery is managed by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources Fishery Division. Lake Mendota has one boat ramp, but the lake has a no-gas-motor regulation. A handicapped fishing pier, picnic area, shelters and restrooms are available for use at the lake.
Additional Lake Information: All Fish: 2 Pole and Line Fishing Only
Large or Smallmouth Bass: 1 fish over 15 inches and 2 fish under 12 inches daily limit
Bluegill or Redear Sunfish: Statewide regulations
Channel Catfish: 6 fish daily limit
White, Black, or Hybrid Crappie: Statewide regulations
Contact Information: Mendota Park District 815-539-7287IDNR Fisheries Biologist, David Wyffels630-360-4185
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