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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

2022

Bluegill

Fingerling 1 - 3"

21879

2022

Channel Catfish

Advanced Fingerling 4 - 7"

840

2023

Bluegill

Fingerling 1 - 3"

19526

2023

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

BLUEGILL

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 2023 survey showed similar results to the 2022 survey, with good numbers of fish in the 6–8-inch range. The increase in population numbers will help to feed the dense Largemouth Bass population, but also help to control Largemouth and Yellow Perch reproduction.

CHANNEL CATFISH

Good

There are good numbers of fish in the 12-24 inch range, with good chance at fish larger than 25 inches. Channel Catfish are stocked annually.

CRAPPIE

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.

LARGEMOUTH BASS

Very Good

The 2023 sample showed a diverse population. Total catch per unit effort (CPUE) was similar to the 2022 survey. Fish in the 15-20 size group have not rebounded to pre-2019 numbers.

RAINBOW TROUT

Excellent

Rainbow Trout are stocked in the spring only.

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

Site Regulations:
Large or Smallmouth Bass: 1 fish over 15" and 2 fish under 12" daily limit
Channel Catfish: 6 fish daily limit

Contact Information:
Mendota Park District
815-539-7287
IDNR Fisheries Biologist, David Wyffels
630-360-4185