First Trip (guide Or No Guide)

[Buggy_Whip]

I will be making my first trip to the Lower Illinois and was wondering, if I should use a guide to learn my way around the river or just wing it by myself.

[Buggy_Whip]

Oh and does anyone have any guide recommendations?

[Zach Bearden]

The river is really easy to fish. Just 5-6X tippet with a zebra midge is all that you really need. I don't know why I carry so many flies honestly.

Basically just your average flies that you would fish anywhere else. There are alot of scuds and sowbugs. Tan is a good color to use. Riffles are a good area and runs are good. There are alot of spots where its a deep hole but its not really obvious. These are good areas to fish hopper dropper with a pheasant tail.

[FishinCricket]

I consider myself a pretty good angler, but I would always suggest hiring a guide if you are going somewhere unfamiliar and new... I will catch more fish and have a better time if I hire a guide than without one.. And remember they usually have some secret spots and such..

Ih and they usually provide fuel and transportation.. Thats worth alot...

As for suggestions, I am not from that area.. Wish I could help. Run a google search..

[LostMyWife]

By all means hire a guide. Speaking from experience, you will have a much better time and you will learn a lot about fishing that area.

LMW

[Mikey]

Zach, has it been fishable as of late or is it still very stained? I can't imagine using a zebra midge in muddy water...unless it works!

Mikey