Surrounded by an 18-mile shoreline Spring Lake located in Banner, Illinois provides 1,285 acres of recreational waters for seasonal enjoyment. At the foot of a large sandstone bluff Spring Lake, a narrow meander, runs almost parallel to the Illinois River for eight and a half miles along the river's east bank.

Boating, fishing, picnicking and hiking are among the activities available at Spring Lake and the surrounding Spring Lake Fish and Wildlife Area (FWA). Located on the east side of the Illinois River, 25 miles southwest of Peoria in Tazewell county, the 2,032-acre park offers five day use / picnic areas, two of which have shelters, and five hiking trails.

Fishing

The lake is divided into the North and South lakes, both of which offer prosperous fishing waters inhabited by healthy largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill, sunfish, channel catfish and carp. The North lake also offers muskie and bullheads, whereas the South Lake has an adequate population of Northern Pike. Creel and length limits are in force for most species.

In the winter, the lake freezes nicely for ice fishing. However, caution must be used because underwater springs can weaken the ice.

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources Division of Fisheries offers "Hook-and-Line" and "Spear/Bow and Arrow" Sport Fishing Awards to recognize anglers for fish caught in Illinois' waters. (Click here for details.)

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     Coordinates:
40.4652N -89.8723W
Map It:
Lake Type:
Reservoir
Surface Area:
1,285 acres
Maximum Depth:
10 ft
Elevation:
473ft
Normal Water Clarity:
2-4 ft
Major City:
Peoria
Airport:
Peoria

Spring Lake welcomes non-motorized and motorboats whose motors do not exceed 25 horsepower. This allows for quiet and relaxing outings on the water. The North lake provides two boat launching ramps while the South Lake offers one concrete launch ramp. Next to this ramp a concessionaire offers boat rentals.

• Illinois Fishing Licenses
• Illinois 2012 Statewide Limits and Regulations
• Illinois Fish Consumption Advisories
• Spring Lake Fish and Wildlife Area
• Illinois Department of Natural Resources