Forbes Lake
State Park and Muskie Status Report Info
The following is an excerpt from the IL State Parks website:
The Stephen A. Forbes State Recreation Area, located 15 miles northeast of Salem in Marion County, was originally only 20 acres with a two-acre pond being the only water available. Since that time in 1959, additions have been made which bring the total current park area to 3,103 acres. Of this total, 1,150 acres are forests of oak and hickory which surround a large lake. The lake was completed in 1963 and has 18 miles of shoreline. The area is named for natural scientist, Stephen Alfred Forbes, whose contributions in the field of biology, make him world renowned. His prolific scientific publications, over 400 titles, are still used extensively in the study of aquatic biology, ornithology, ichthyology, and ecology.
The 585-acre lake provides ample opportunities to the sport fisherman. The lake has been stocked with largemouth bass, bluegill, redear, crappie, channel catfish, hybrid-striped bass, tiger muskie, and walleye sauger hybrid. Largemouth bass are stocked annually from brood ponds located in the park. This, combined with a 14-inch size limit, has created excellent bass fishery. Fishing is also available at Boston Pond, Marlow Pond, and Wilson Pond.
Boat ramps provide easy access to the main lake. There is no limit on horsepower, but various sections of the lake are marked by buoys for water skiing and "no wake" speeds. The concession offers fishing boats for rental. Bait, tackle, gas, snacks, and meals are also available. Slips are available to rent for pontoon boats and smaller craft on a daily and seasonal basis.
The following is an excerpt from the IL DNR's
"STATUS OF MUSKIE FISHERY IN ILLINOIS 2004"
FORBES LAKE - This 525-acre impoundment received the first stocking of pure muskie in 1999. The lake has received annual stockings since then and in 2003 received 500 fish averaging 10.0 inches in length. In the fall 2003 fish population survey, 7 fish ranging from 20 to 39 inches in length representing 3, possibly 4, year classes were collected and the largest was 39 inches in length at 26.23 pounds.
coming soon