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PONDEROSA LAKE
Lake Information
County: KANKAKEE
Acreage: 149
Average Depth: 0.00 feet
Recreational Amenities
Boat Fishing? Unlimited HP, No Wake
Boat Ramps? Yes
Boat Rental? No
Skiing? No
Swimming? No
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There are no zebra mussels in this lake.
Fishing Outlook ( Full PDF Report )
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Species |
Rank |
Fish Status |
Fair | The 2024 Spring nighttime survey resulted in a total of 52 Bluegill collected ranging from 60 mm (2.4") to 209 mm (8.2"), with 41 of those fish greater than Stock size (3.0"). Average length was 117 mm (4.6"). Catch rate was 0.87 fish/minute. Site Regulation: 10 fish aggregate daily limit. | |
Average | Electrofishing surveys tend to produce a very low number of Channel Catfish. Channel Catfish are stocked biennially. Site Regulation: 6 fish daily limit. | |
Average | Electrofishing surveys tend to produce a very low number of Crappie. Site Regulation: 10 fish aggregate daily limit. | |
Average | The 2024 Spring nighttime survey resulted in a total of 82 Largemouth Bass collected ranging from 142 mm (5.6") to 436 mm (17.2"), with 72 of those fish greater than Stock size (8.0"). Average length was 270 mm (10.6"). Catch rate was 1.4 fish/minute. Site Regulation: 15" minimum length limit; 3 fish daily limit. | |
Very Good | The 2024 Spring nighttime survey resulted in a total of 50 Redear Sunfish collected ranging from 115 mm (4.5") to 226 mm (8.9"), with 50 of those fish greater than Stock size (4.0"). Average length was 181 mm (7.1"). Catch rate was 0.83/minute. Site Regulation: 10 fish aggregate daily limit. | |
Very Good | Three Yellow Bullhead were collected in the Spring 2024 nighttime survey ranging from 8 – 10 inches. Despite their underutilization, Bullhead offer anglers another excellent sportfish to catch. | |
Location: Ponderosa Lake is located within the Mazonia State Fish and Wildlife Area South Unit, 2 miles northeast of South Wilmington in Kankakee County off West 5000 Road.
Description: Ponderosa Lake is the largest impoundment within the Mazonia complex, covering 148.9 surface acres with depths to 60 feet. It is isolated from all other water areas. Likely one of the most scenic of the Mazonia lakes, Ponderosa is characterized by cedar-lined shorelines, gin-clear water and a myriad of coves, cuts and large bays. Ponderosa Lake also supports a diverse aquatic plant community. A two-lane unimproved gravel ramp serves as boat access. Very little shore access is available.
History and Status of the Sport Fishery: Surveys are conducted on Ponderosa Lake on an alternating year basis. The lake currently receives Channel Catfish on a routine basis (triennial). Both Bluegill and Redear Sunfish have been supplementally stocked as they become available. Northern Pike, Yellow Perch, and Walleye have been historically stocked but were later terminated due to poor success.
A special mercury advisory is in effect for Largemouth Bass greater than 15", which limits consumption to one meal per week for both the most sensitive and general population.
Additional Lake Information: Swimming is prohibited. Gasoline motors (unlimited horsepower) are permitted on Ponderosa Lake with a no wake regulation in effect. Ponderosa Lake closes 10 days prior to the opening of the Central Zone Duck Season and reopens (7-days a week) after the season ends. Statewide fishing regulations apply.
Site-Specific Fishing Regulations
All Fish: 2 Pole and Line Fishing Only
Bluegill or Redear Sunfish: 10 fish daily limit
Channel Catfish: 6 fish daily limit
Large or Smallmouth Bass: 15" minimum length limit; 3 fish daily limit
White, Black, or Hybrid Crappie: 10 fish daily limit
Contact Information: Mazonia/Braidwood State Fish & Wildlife Area 815-237-0063IDNR Fisheries Biologist, Seth Love630-360-4772
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