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Ice Fishing Chicago's Chain O' Lakes
by Elisa Kronish

Ice fishing doesn't quite conjure the romantic visions that fly fishing does. No, ice fishing is the sport of die-hard anglers. First of all, it's really cold. Second of all, people will think you're really nuts. But if you bundle up appropriately, bring a thermos of something hot and ignore the impulse to run, you can enjoy a crisp, Chicago winter day, topped off with a rewarding fresh fish dinner. Just remember the ice fishing motto: "Thick and blue, tried and true. Thin and crispy, way too risky."

You don't have much time for ice fishing in the Chicago area-from about January to early March-so get to where the bites are bountiful, and do it fast. One of the best fishing spots is the Chain O'Lakes, which encompasses about 7,000 acres with nine major lakes interconnected by channels. Only 50 miles north of Chicago, the Chain O' Lakes has hooked fishermen (and fisherwomen, of course) for decades. The lakes are home to about 40 different species, including bluegill, crappie, yellow bass, walleye, and muskie. If you drive out to the lakes on a Saturday a few hours after sunrise, the regulars will tip you off as to the good fishing spots. There are no fees or permits necessary for ice fishing in Illinois; just four inches of ice-and a very warm coat.

Practically Speaking
The Chain O'Lakes are located off Ill. Route 173 and U.S. Route 12, near the cities of Antioch and Fox Lake. You can pretty much just park your car and pick a spot. Unlike Minnesota and Wisconsin lakes, driving onto the ice in Illinois will get you in trouble-and probably very wet. For ice conditions, you can check the Chicago Tribune on Thursday or Sunday, or call the Illinois Dept. of Natural Resources at 815-675-2319. Although Illinois also prohibits permanent shanties-the kind of Grumpy Old Men fame-you can set up portable shelters, if you really feel like schlepping all that stuff onto the ice.

Related Links
Chain O' Lakes Information Center
Chicago Convention and Tourism Bureau
Elisa Kronish is an editor at chicago.citysearch.com and a freelance writer who specializes in Windy City recreational activities.

Photo: Courtest of Illinois Department of Natural Resources
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