Bluegill is recorded in 4 of the 6 spots within 75 minutes of Chicago. Below are the strongest of them by our score: drive time, depth data, species and public access.
By our bite calendar, Bluegill peaks around Chicago in April, May, June, July, August, and September. In November the calendar puts it at “Slow”.
Where to catch Bluegill near Chicago
1. Skokie Lagoons
Skokie Lagoons is a 26-minute drive from downtown Chicago. Canoe & kayak launch — Skokie Lagoons: boat ramp on Skokie Lagoons, ≈ 17.8 mi from downtown. Public access on Skokie Lagoons: 2 boat ramps. Surveyed depths reach 16 ft. Recorded here: Common Carp, Goldfish, Bluegill, and Channel Catfish.
2. South Pool
South Pool is a 32-minute drive from downtown Chicago. Surveyed depths reach 16 ft. Recorded here: Common Carp, Bluegill, Yellow Bullhead, and White Sucker.
3. Cedar Lake
Cedar Lake is a 63-minute drive from downtown Chicago. Launch at Cedar Lake, the public ramp on Cedar Lake closest to downtown (≈ 35.4 mi). Public access on Cedar Lake: 1 boat ramp. Surveyed depths reach 12 ft. Recorded here: Brown Bullhead, White Perch, Striped Bass, and Bowfin.
4. Pistakee Lake
Pistakee Lake is a 69-minute drive from downtown Chicago. Surveyed depths reach 30 ft. Recorded here: Largemouth Bass, Channel Catfish, Freshwater Drum, and Pumpkinseed.
