Illinois Fishing Size Limits
Legal minimum sizes and daily limits for fishing in Illinois. Updated for 2026.
Illinois Fish Size Limits
Complete guide to legal fish sizes in Illinois. Find minimum sizes, slot limits, and daily limits for all regulated species. Updated for 2026.
Fish Species
5
With Size Limits
3
No Size Limit
2
Updated
2026
Fish Size Limits
3 species with minimum size requirements in Illinois
| Species | Size Limit | Daily Limit | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| | 14" minimum | 6 | - |
| | 12" minimum | 6 | - |
| | No minimum | 6 | - |
No Statewide Size Limit
Species with daily limits only (no minimum size)
| Species | Daily Limit | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| | 6 | No statewide minimum size |
| | 25 | No statewide minimum size |
- Regulated species
- Largemouth Bass, Smallmouth Bass, Channel Catfish, Walleye, Bluegill
- Minimum lengths
- Largemouth Bass 14" minimum | Smallmouth Bass 12" minimum | Walleye No minimum
- Daily-limit only
- Channel Catfish, Bluegill
- Issuing agency
- Illinois Department of Natural Resources
Need the regulatory background? How fish size limits work covers minimums, slots, and proper measurement.
Illinois Fishing Regulations Overview
State fish and wildlife agency information
- Fish Species
- 5 species with regulations
- Species with Size Limits
-
- Largemouth Bass
- Smallmouth Bass
- Walleye
- Fish & Wildlife Agency
- Illinois Department of Natural Resources
This information is for reference only. Always verify regulations with your state wildlife agency before hunting or fishing.
Last verified: January 2026
Illinois Fishing Size Limits FAQ
Common questions about fish size regulations in Illinois
What is the bass size limit in Illinois?
In Illinois, largemouth bass has a 14" minimum. The daily limit is 6. Check specific water body regulations as they may vary.
Which fish have size limits in Illinois?
Illinois enforces size limits on 3 species including: Largemouth Bass (14" minimum), Smallmouth Bass (12" minimum), Walleye (No minimum). Always verify current regulations before fishing.
Which Illinois fish have daily limits but no size minimum?
2 species are managed in Illinois by daily creel limit only: Channel Catfish (6), Bluegill (25).
Other States
View fishing size limits for more states
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