What You'll Find at Lake Storey

Lake Storey is a small public lake in central Illinois, roughly 40 acres, known for largemouth bass and panfish — bluegill, crappie, and catfish. The lake sits in a rural setting with modest facilities and draws local anglers rather than destination crowds. Water clarity varies by season; spring and early summer tend to be clearer, while late summer can turn murky. The lake is managed by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources and is open year-round to fishing.

The bass population here runs small to medium, with most fish in the 1- to 3-pound range. Panfish are more consistent and often easier to catch, especially for beginners or families. Catfish are present and grow larger than the bass, making them a worthwhile target for evening or night fishing. The lake's shallow areas and weed growth create good habitat for all three species, though conditions change with the season and recent weather.

Key Takeaways

  • Lake Storey holds largemouth bass, bluegill, crappie, and catfish, with panfish being the most reliable catch for most anglers.
  • A valid Illinois fishing license is required; you can purchase one online through the IDNR website or at local bait shops.
  • Spring and early summer offer the clearest water and most active fish; late summer can be weedy and murky.
  • The lake has a public boat launch and parking area, though facilities are basic and the lake is best suited to small boats or kayaks.

Seasons and What to Expect

Spring (March through May) is often the best time to fish Lake Storey. Bass move shallow to spawn in April and May, and panfish become very active. Water temperature climbs from the 40s into the 60s, triggering feeding. Crappie fishing can be excellent in April if you target deeper structure near the dam or old channel beds. Mornings and evenings are most productive, though overcast days can produce all day.

Summer (June through August) brings warmer water and more weed growth. Bass move deeper during midday heat, so fish early morning or late evening. Panfish remain active but can be scattered. Catfish bite well at night, especially around the dam or deeper holes. By late July and August, algae blooms and weeds can make the lake challenging; water clarity drops and fishing slows. Thunderstorms are common and can improve bite windows temporarily.

Fall (September through November) sees water cooling and fish becoming more active again. Bass move back to shallower areas as water temperature drops into the 50s and 40s. Panfish bite steadily through October. By November, the lake quiets down, but catfish and larger bass can still be caught. Fall is less crowded than spring, making it a good time if you prefer solitude.

Winter (December through February) slows fishing significantly. The lake does not typically freeze solid enough for safe ice fishing, and open-water fishing is slow. Some anglers pursue catfish on mild days, but most avoid the lake during this season. Check current conditions before visiting in winter.

How to Reach Lake Storey and Where to Launch

Lake Storey is located in Champaign County, near the town of Mansfield. From Champaign, take I-74 east, then exit onto local roads heading north. GPS coordinates are approximately 40.05°N, 88.15°W. The drive from Champaign is roughly 20 to 25 minutes. Signage from the main road is limited, so a GPS or detailed directions are helpful.

The lake has a public boat launch on the south side, with a small parking area. The launch is suitable for small boats, kayaks, and canoes. There is no fuel dock, no restaurant, and no lodging on-site. Restroom facilities are basic. The nearest town with gas, food, and supplies is Mansfield, about 5 miles away. If you plan to fish all day, bring water and snacks.

Bank fishing is possible around the perimeter, though access is limited in some areas due to private property. The best bank access is near the parking area and boat launch. Wading is possible in shallow areas, but the bottom can be soft and muddy.

Regulations and Licensing

Illinois requires a fishing license for anyone 16 and older. You can purchase a one-day, three-day, or annual license through the Illinois Department of Natural Resources website (www2.illinois.gov/dnr) or at local bait and tackle shops. The cost varies by license type; a one-day license is the least expensive option for a single visit. Licenses are also sold at many sporting goods stores and Walmart locations.

Bass have a 12-inch minimum length limit and a daily bag limit of 5 fish. Panfish (bluegill and crappie) have no minimum size but a combined daily limit of 50 fish. Catfish have no size limit and a daily limit of 50 fish. These limits are current as of 2024 but can change; check the IDNR website before your trip to confirm.

No live bait restrictions apply at Lake Storey, so minnows, crawfish, and worms are all legal. Artificial lures are also allowed. Fishing is permitted from sunrise to sunset unless you have a night-fishing permit, which is available through the IDNR for catfish and other species.

What Tackle and Bait Work Best

For largemouth bass, bring a medium-power spinning rod with 8- to 10-pound monofilament or braided line. Crankbaits, soft plastics (4- to 6-inch worms or crawfish), and topwater lures work well in spring and fall. In summer, focus on deeper structure — docks, submerged trees, and the dam — with slower presentations. Live shiners or crawfish also produce, especially in spring.

For panfish, a light spinning rod or ultralight setup is ideal. Small jigs (1/16 to 1/8 ounce) tipped with live minnows or wax worms are reliable. Bobber-and-minnow rigs work well in shallow areas. Crappie respond well to small crankbaits and jigs around structure. Bluegill bite on small spinners, flies, and live insects. A simple cane pole with a bobber and worm is effective for families and beginners.

For catfish, use heavier tackle — a medium-heavy rod with 15- to 20-pound line. Cut bait (shad, bluegill, or chicken liver) is the standard choice. Fish on the bottom with a sinker and three-way rig or slip sinker. Night fishing is most productive. A headlamp and patience are essential; catfish bites can be slow and deliberate.

Common Challenges and How to Fish Around Them

Late-summer weed growth is the biggest challenge at Lake Storey. Aquatic vegetation can make casting difficult and reduce visibility. If weeds are heavy, focus on deeper water near the dam or channel areas where weeds are thinner. Early morning before the sun warms the water can improve conditions. Alternatively, visit in spring or fall when weeds are less dense.

Water clarity varies unpredictably. If the lake is murky, use darker lures (black, purple, or dark green) and fish slower. Panfish are less affected by clarity than bass, so switching to panfish can be productive on cloudy-water days. Catfish do not rely on sight, so they are a good option regardless of clarity.

Pressure from local anglers is light to moderate, so you are unlikely to encounter crowding. However, weekends in spring can draw more people. Weekday mornings are typically quieter. The lake's small size means fish can be scattered; if one area is slow, move to another section rather than staying in one spot for hours.

Nearby Alternatives if Lake Storey Doesn't Fit Your Plans

Kaufman Lake, also in Champaign County, is slightly larger and holds similar species with a reputation for better bass fishing. Horseshoe Lake State Park, near Kampsville in the Illinois River valley, offers larger water and more amenities. Evergreen Lake, near Bloomington, is another small public lake with good panfish and bass.

If you are willing to drive farther, Lake Shelbyville (about 45 minutes south) is a major reservoir with excellent largemouth bass, crappie, and catfish populations. It has full facilities, multiple launch ramps, and more consistent fishing. For a different experience, the Illinois River near Havana offers channel catfish, flathead catfish, and occasional bass, though it requires more skill and local knowledge.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a boat to fish Lake Storey?

No. Bank fishing is possible around much of the perimeter, and the boat launch area has good access. A kayak or small canoe is useful for reaching deeper water or less-crowded spots, but not required. Most panfish can be caught from shore.

What is the best time of day to fish?

Early morning (sunrise to mid-morning) and late evening (two hours before sunset) are most productive for bass and panfish. Catfish bite throughout the night and into early morning. Midday in summer is typically slow, especially for bass.

Can I catch and keep fish for dinner?

Yes. Panfish and catfish are good eating and are the most practical choice for a meal. Bass are also edible but less commonly kept. Check current regulations on size and bag limits before you fish, and follow all IDNR guidelines.

Is Lake Storey good for beginners or families?

Yes. Panfish are abundant and easy to catch, making it ideal for children and new anglers. The lake is small and manageable, and the basic facilities keep costs low. Spring and early summer are the best seasons for a family outing.

What should I bring besides a rod and tackle?

Bring a valid fishing license, sunscreen, a hat, water, snacks, and a cooler if you plan to keep fish. A headlamp is essential for catfish fishing at night. Insect repellent is useful in summer. The parking area has no shade, so a pop-up canopy is helpful on sunny days.