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Currently 57° FAIR
Winds0mph
Humidity67%
Visibility10mi
Dew Point45°
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cfwaterHeader2ecfm443092612$funcCOUNTYNAME@437b3ba5 County

Rend Lake

Franklin County, Illinois
size in acres
18,900
moon phase
Sun times displayed in .
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"
How big is Rend Lake?
Rend Lake is approximately 18,900 sq acres (76 sq km) in size with 162 miles (260.7 km) of shoreline.
How deep is Rend Lake?
Rend Lake is approximately 35 feet (10.7 m) at its deepest point with an average depth of 15 feet (4.6 m).
What kind of fish are in Rend Lake?
Anglers can expect to find a variety of fish including Black Crappie, Bluegill, Carp, Channel Catfish, Drum (Sheepshead), Flathead Catfish, Hybrid Striped Bass, Largemouth Bass, White Bass, White Crappie and Yellow Bass in Rend Lake.

Other fish species in the lake include and Wiper Bass.

When are the best fishing times for Rend Lake?
Today fishing looks to be moderately active with peak fishing times around 2-4 pm. For more more best fishing times visit our Rend Lake Fishing Forecast page. Lake-Link Pro Members can get detailed fishing forecasts for up to 10 days in advance and species specific for Rend Lake.
What are the closest cities to Rend Lake?
Are there fishing guides for Rend Lake?
Yes! There are fishing guides for Rend Lake and/or the surrounding area. Please see the "Fishing Guides" section down a little further on this page.

Places To Stay

Rend Lake Reviews

Give Your Review
shawn d.
Ottawa, IL
5 star rating
This lake is an excellent crappie fishery thanks to the high water level in spring. Probably best crappie lake in Illinois
Reviewed Apr 23, 2021
clint t.
mount vernon
5 star rating
When you compare quality and quantity Rend lake is the best crappie lake in the midwest!
Reviewed May 14, 2013
jackie v.
New Lenox, Illinois
5 star rating
It's a large body of water with many possibilities. Several large fingers lead into the main body with lots of coves and structure. Bait shop right on site and boat rental available. Excellent crappie fishing.
Reviewed Mar 5, 2007
Read more reviews
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