Christopher Lake in Franklin County: How and When to Fish It

• Overview

  Franklin County in Illinois is where Christopher Lake sits. Around the bank it is open valley. Around 37 acres of surface means several distinct areas to work. Around 1.3 miles of margin, front to back. The closest town, Christopher, is 3.4 miles away. St. Louis sits 73 miles out, and it is the nearest city worth the name. It sits near the edge of the county, so check which rules apply.

• Where to Fish on Christopher Lake

  Depth figures are not published for this one. Built water gives depth close in, which suits a bank angler. Look for where the old bank line still shows under the surface. Survey and observation records for Franklin County include bluegill, shortnose gar, green sunfish, longear sunfish and black crappie. County records show the wider picture rather than this one place. Read Christopher Lake for ten minutes before the first cast goes out.

• Seasonal Patterns

  Long-run averages give July about 78°F and January about 30°F. Some winters cap it and some do not. In a normal year the cover is thin and short-lived. February into May fishes hardest as the water warms. At Christopher Lake the season follows that pattern closely. A steady wind fishes better than a still, bright day.

• Tackle & Baits

  We have no record of the rules that apply on this bank. Public mapping records no formal access here, so plan for a walk and soft ground. Bluegill and other panfish take small jigs or worms under a float near any cover. Bank access can be seasonal on ground like this. Where the way in crosses private ground, ask first. If the gate is shut, Izaac Walton Lake at 1.1 miles is the nearest alternative. Check the position on Christopher Lake before loading the car.