Has anyone launched around whiting or by the casino? Is it safe, is it worth it to try for some smallmouth around there? Can you stay inside some of the breakwalls or around the plants and catch fish? I have always wanted to try it but not if it is not safe or you can't catch them without going out pretty far. Just looking for tips on where to put in and what area might be safest with an opportunity to catch some fish. Coming from the naperville area.
It's all about the wind direction. South and west winds and you'll be fine in those areas. Most people fish breakwalls and rocky shorelines. There are nice fish to be caught but it is definitely not like fishing up north so adjust your expectations. East Chicago and Hammond are both nice launches. $20 to launch.
2016 Tuffy X-190
Yamaha F175, Mercury 9.9
Motorguide 80 lb Xi5
Garmim/Humminbird graphs and Talon
Been fishing the south end of Lake Michigan for 20 years. I have never had an issue with people bothering my stuff while out fishing. I usually launch at Pastrick Marina, Portage, 95th street, or Hammond Marina. For the most part there is no off-shore structure on the south end of Lake Michigan.
The smallmouth fishing is good for Illinois. I agree with Junk Fisherman, no where close to as good as places like Sturgeon Bay, or Lake St. Clair, Lake Erie, etc.
Gambler 2200/250 Pro XS
I typically launch out of Hammond. Lots of breakwall and shoreline structure to fish. I've had some decent days and struggled on others. Never he been able to find much in terms of size. 3lb maybe the biggest I have been able to find. As others have said, wind direction is key for safety. It can be almost flat calm with a south or SW wind, anything with North in it you better pay attention to wind speeds. Not the fishery Erie or Ontario is but you can find fish.
2023 Lund 2075 Pro V Bass XS
2023 Mercury Pro XS 250 4S
thanks for all the info. gonna give it a try.
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