Crab Orchard Today

[Maverickpro201]

Went over from Missouri side at St Mary's exit. Should have know when we got across the bridge into Illinois and highway 3 said closed. But no detour sign where we turn. Went on 3 just to edge of town and the Railroad had the road closed. Track work I guess. Went back into town and there was a detour sign when you come back from the tracks. Took the long very long route to Crab Orchard Lake.

Paid the fee at campground and put in at Spillway ramp. Fishing @6:30am,. Fished til 2pm Thunderstorms approaching Loaded and head back Via 149 to 3 south to Cape and then back up 55 highway. I normally never do bad when I go fishing, 99% time can get some kind of pattern going. 1 short short fish on topwater, 1 short fish on shakyhead, and 1 keeper on a 9" texas rig worm. Partner zero'd.

This lake has really changed in 25 plus years and I do not think I will go back.   

[snagged in outlet 3]

My family is from Herrin.   Don’t hear of many guys heading east into Illinois except in the winter on the power plant lakes.  Wish it would’ve been better for you.  

[Maverickpro201]

We fish Kinkaid about 5 weeks ago and had a decent day. It was the first time in 25 plus years also.

I always do well in Missouri and Texas water. Just could not get a bite going at all at The Crab. 

[jdmidwest]

Crappie were doing well this spring around the bridge between Carbondale and Marion.  Son in law hits it.

I bought Illinois license the summer I was off from radiation.  I fished Randolph County Lake, Kinkaid, and Cedar.  Did ok, but was not up to par and strong enough to give it much effort.  Been meaning to buy the license and hit it again, but springs have been goofy wet and river roads have closed at the bridges.  Then Covid hit this year and Illinois was really goofy.