[jimbo24]

Headed out to Shabbona this Thursday with a buddy. First time going here. Typically fish the Chain. I assume similar techniques will work out at Shabbona? Any special places or general areas to start at? Figured with the cool down and consistent weather they should be ready to start feeding shortly. Any advice would be great. Thanks in advance

Jim

[husker]

Stop in at the bait shop before you launch and talk to Clint. He will give you the 411. Things have been tough out there lately due to all the rain. If you can, call them tomorrow so you can game plan. 815-824-2581

[jimbo24]

Thanks Husker. Definitely just called and got a little scoop. Basically stated mostly small walleyes have been caught in the East bay thus far. Anyone else have any words of wisdom? Would be greatly appreciated.

[BigJim]

I was out there last weekend. Water visibility was maybe a foot and the bite was non-existent. I didn't see anyone obviously after walleye, but the crappie, bass, and muskie guys were all striking out. I have seen guys absolutely smashing the walleye over the old foundations in the past.

[jimbo24]

Thanks BigJim. I definitely liked the way that spot looked on the lake map. Will definitely give that a try for sure. Will report back after our adventure tomorrow

[reno]

Fished Shabbona a bunch over the years with limited success. A few years ago I went out with the Crappie Professor and he really taught me a lot about the lake. I dont want to give away any specific areas, but all I can say is, if your not close to structure, you're not close to fish. Trees, weeds, rocks, cribs, road beds. All produce.

[jimbo24]

Thanks everyone. Was a Tough bite out there today. Not really sure why potential because of the Warm Front into the Cold Front. We hit many areas and rock piles and some other spots mentioned to us. We went in and out of Tree Stumps and crib beds... however we managed a 4.5 pound Cat and a smaller kitty for the day. Had a really good break off outside the tree line with a Jig and Minnow but never saw the beast who was hungry.