Argyle Lake, Illinois: Fishing Spots and Seasons

• Overview

  In Illinois, Argyle Lake belongs to McDonough County. Elevation runs to 620 feet. Around 93 acres of surface means several distinct areas to work. There is roughly 3.1 miles of bank, more than one visit can cover properly. Colchester sits 1.8 miles from the bank. Beyond it, Macomb at 6.3 miles and La Harpe at 13 miles. This one is safely inside the county line.

• Where to Fish on Argyle Lake

  Depth is unmeasured here, so let the shoreline guide you. Draw-down through summer strips the margins, so follow the water out. Levels move with the draw rather than the rain on water like this. Across McDonough County, recorded fish include common carp, green sunfish, johnny darter, channel catfish and golden redhorse. County records show what lives in the area; the local agency holds the water-by-water list. At Argyle Lake light and wind decide more than tackle does.

• Seasonal Patterns

  Expect July to average close to 76°F, with January the cold end at about 23°F. Cold locks it up for a good stretch each year. Ice-out usually falls in mid March, and the weeks after it fish hardest. Averages suggest open water from about mid March through to roughly late December. The strong weeks are the first after break-up and the last before the freeze. On Argyle Lake the same rules apply, with local timing.

• Tackle & Baits

  Whether the bank is open is not something our records settle. A slipway is marked about half a mile from here. A marina is mapped about half a mile away. Public data has parking about half a mile from the shore. Mapping records toilets within half a mile. Gates get locked out of season on water like this. Keep proof of licence with you rather than in the car. For a change of water, Spring Lake is 5 miles distant. Check the position on Argyle Lake before loading the car.