Sterling Lake is approximately 74 sq acres (0.3 sq km) in size.
How deep is Sterling Lake?
Sterling Lake is approximately 23 feet (7.0 m) at its deepest point with an average depth of 14 feet (4.3 m).
What kind of fish can you catch in Sterling Lake?
Although thery may be others but anglers can expect to find a variety of fish including Black Crappie, Bluegill, Channel Catfish, Largemouth Bass, Muskie and Walleye in Sterling Lake.
Are there fishing guides or charters for Sterling Lake?
Yes! There are fishing guides and charters for Sterling Lake and/or the surrounding area.
Are there places to stay in the Sterling Lake area?
Are you craving a weekend escape from the hustle and bustle of city life? Or maybe you're an avid angler in search of the perfect fishing spot? Look no further! Sterling Lake and its surrounding area offer an abundance of options to suit your needs. If you're in need of accommodation, check out our area map which highlights some of the best places to stay. And if you're looking for even more options, head on over to our Travel section. But why settle for a traditional hotel or resort when you can take your adventure to the next level by renting a RV? The open road awaits you!
More Lodging Options
Are there bait or tackle shops near Sterling Lake?
Yes, there are some nearby bait or tackle shops in the vacinity of Sterling Lake.
Are there topographical lake maps available Sterling Lake?
We have an topograpical map for online viewing near the top of this page. Lake-Link Pro users can download an print a topograpical map of Sterling Lake (.pdf format) along with 2,700 more lake maps. For more information on all the benefits of Lake-Link Pro click here.
Are there places to eat and drink near Sterling Lake?
Yes, you can find numerous options in the area. Click the button below to see what's nearby.
What is the fishing outlook for Sterling Lake?
What does the future look like for Sterling Lake? We have some insignt on what to expect for a number of fish species in Sterling Lake.
Explore the Sterling Lake area in a RV
Are you looking for an adventurous vacation option that won't break the bank? Look no further than renting an RV! Contrary to popular belief, the process is much simpler than you might imagine. With just a few easy steps, you'll soon be experiencing the ultimate freedom and convenience of exploring the open road in your very own recreational vehicle. And the best part? RV travel can save you up to 60% compared to other types of vacations! With the money you'll save, you'll be able to travel even more and create unforgettable memories along the way. So why wait? Start planning your next adventure today with an RV rental. Learn more about renting a RV.
In 2013, a D/C electrofishing survey was conducted to assess the overall fishery. Sterling Lake receives periodic stockings of 5000 2" walleye, 150 11" muskie and annual stockings of 600 8" to 10" channel catfish. 14 species were detected during this survey. In addition to the species listed, you can also find pumpkinseed sunfish, warmouth, yellow perch, spotted sucker, bluntnose minnow, bowfin, common carp, and yellow bullhead. Historically, yellow bass, white sucker, brook silverside, and johnny darters.
Controling Authority
Lake County Forest Preserve District 847-367-6640 IDNR Fisheries Biologist, Andy Plauck 815-675-2386 ext. 214
What is the average air temp for Sterling Lake?
Looking forward to your next adventure at Sterling Lake? Don't forget to plan ahead! Weather can be unpredictable, but we've got you covered. On average, air temperatures during this time of year range from a high around 84°F (29°C) to a low around 65°F (18°C). Of course, these are just historical averages, so be prepared for anything Mother Nature throws your way. For the most up-to-date weather information, be sure to check out our Weather Bar located at the top of this page.
Are there any state parks near Sterling Lake?
Enjoy more of the outdoors with a visit to an area state park. There are 1 state park in the vacinity of Sterling Lake.
I love canoeing on this lake as the water is very clear and you can often see the bottom. But for fishing, it's below average. Possibly over-fished. I've seen in other lakes schools of fish, but never in this lake. I've done some underwater GoPro videos to get a look see and the panfish are most times solitary. There are Muskie here, however! I've never caught one, but I've seen others who have. In fall 2020, there was a dead one floating on the southern part of the lake. Largest fish I've caught here was a 12" largemouth. About 10 years ago, I caught a 10" walleye, too. I'm not so sure they stock this lake any more and fishing success has declined for me. Still fun for a paddle, though.
Reviewed Apr 17, 2021
rick r.
Zion, IL
It is well maintained but hard to find big fish in the summer Can get very weedy. Not a bad ice fishing spot.
Reviewed Dec 3, 2018
tom w.
Chicago, IL
GOOD LAKE TO FISH WITH LIVE BAIT , MINNOWS WORKED WELL , FIND DROP OFF AND CAST TO IT , WALLEYE, BASS AND CRAPPIE , SCENIC TOO . GOOD FISHING
Reviewed May 22, 2016
tom w.
Chicago, IL
GOOD LAKE TO FISH WITH LIVE BAIT , MINNOWS WORKED WELL , FIND DROP OFF AND CAST TO IT , WALLEYE, BASS AND CRAPPIE , SCENIC TOO . GOOD FISHING
Reviewed May 22, 2016
mauricio r.
HARD LAKE TO FISH BUT WHEN YOU CATCH, ITS GOOD SIZE FISH.. CAUGHT 2 GOOD 17 AND 20 INCH BASS.. SAW A BIG MUSKIE BUT DIDNT WANT MY LURE..
Reviewed May 8, 2015
james n.
Have fished here 5-6 times and only caught one LMB (decent size but not large by any means).I guess you need to get a boat and get out on the water?The piers are ridiculously small,I have not given up on this lake yet,but hope it starts to produce something besides the small cats I see people pulling out most of the time.
Reviewed Apr 28, 2013
paul f.
I haven't fished here in over 30 years. Hats off to the county with what they have done with this property. Fished here a couple times already this year. Mostly from the piers. Water is high, still cold and murky. Couple of follow ups but no fish yet. I suspect it will begin picking up being the forecast is calling for much warmer temps and sun. Water levels will also probably begin to drop some soon.
Reviewed Apr 24, 2013
michael b.
Good Lake, pretty water, clear, good variety of fish, have caught LM, SM's, Walleyes, White Bass, BLK, WHT Crappie, Bluegill, Pumpkinseed, Yellow Perch, but hard to get good size of any of these, haven't caught anything keeper size yet.
Reviewed Aug 31, 2008
robert o.
One of the best walleye and muskie waters. Just find a weed bed and hold on.
Reviewed Apr 8, 2004
william m.
This Preserve lake is definitely 5 star musky water, more than 20 large fish between 40 and 48 inches have been caught and released in the 1999/2000 season.
Great Walleye and trophy smallmouth Bass fishing can also be found here in the spring and fall.
Reviewed Aug 16, 2001
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