The Perch bite is still very good in Portage and East from there. Most reports are from anglers using Perch Pounder Rigs with either Live Large Fathead Minnows or Gulp! Minnows. The bite in the Northern Chicago Harbors has been kept quiet recently, but the Perch are there too.
Catfish are consistent at Braidwood and LaSalle Lakes, with both shore and boat anglers coming in with reports daily. Shore anglers at Braidwood have reported smaller catfish on average, but LaSalle has still been great. The boat bite on both lakes is fantastic. Other popular areas include the Kankakee River Backwaters at the Des Plaines Conservation Area and the Illinois River around Morris, Seneca, Marseilles, and Starved Rock. Don't forget all of the local Forest Preserve Lakes like Tampier that receive great stocking programs of eater sized catfish. The best bait choices have been Skipjack Herring and Triple S "Sonnys" Catfish Dip Bait.
Local Bass fishing is excellent right now in just about every Subdivision Pond, Lake, and River in the area. Lots of the local fish are moving into the grass this time of year, so tie on a Topwater Frog, Swim Jig, Wacky/Neko Rig, or Punch Rig and start catching them. If you are looking for a very effective Live Bait option, a Medium Roach/Shiner Minnow will certainly get bit. We have received great reports from some areas that are considered community holes, but they are currently fishing great. They include Lemont Quarries, Mallard Lake, Monee Reservoir, and Maple Lake.
Salmon are being caught in around 100 feet of water. Mostly with Dodger and Fly setups around the Northern Harbors and out East. These fish are expected to move in very soon, so shore anglers looking for good King fishing should start preparing for a great season. More updates on the Salmon and Steelhead next report.