Rend Lake

Rend Lake is a 19,000-acre reservoir located in southern Illinois, about a few miles north of Benton. The lake was created in the 1970s by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers as part of a flood control project on the Big Muddy River. The lake was formed by constructing a 2-mile-long dam across the Big Muddy River floodplain. At normal pool, Rend Lake has a surface area of 18,900 acres, a maximum depth of 35 feet, and a mean depth of 10 feet. The lake is thirteen miles long and three miles wide and has 162 miles of shoreline. It is the second largest impoundment in Illinois.

Rend Lake is a popular destination for fishing, boating, and other outdoor activities. The lake is known for its excellent crappie, bass, and catfish fishing, but anglers can also catch bluegill, redear sunfish, and other species.

The lake has several marinas, boat ramps, and fishing docks, making it easy for anglers to access the water. There are also several campgrounds around the lake, ranging from primitive sites to RV parks with full hookups.

In addition to fishing and boating, Rend Lake offers opportunities for hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing. The lake is surrounded by several state parks and wildlife areas, including the Wayne Fitzgerrell State Recreation Area and the Rend Lake State Fish and Wildlife Area.

Rend Lake also has a number of amenities for visitors, including picnic areas, playgrounds, and beaches. The lake hosts several events throughout the year, including fishing tournaments, boating races, and festivals.

Overall, Rend Lake is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts looking for a variety of activities in a beautiful natural setting. Whether you're fishing, boating, camping, or just enjoying the scenery, Rend Lake has something for everyone.

Site Regulations:
Largemouth, Smallmouth or Spotted Bass: 6 fish daily limit, 14" minimum length limit
White, Black or Hybrid Crappie: 25 daily limit, not more than 10 exceeding 10"
White, Yellow or Hybrid Striped Bass: 20 daily limit, not more than 3 exceeding 17"