Fowler Lake, Illinois: Fishing Spots and Seasons

• Overview

  You will find Fowler Lake in Jersey County, Illinois. Beyond the shoreline you have farm and woodlot. It lies lower than most water we list in Illinois. Winfield is the closest place, 9.4 miles off. Jerseyville is 14 miles away, with Elsberry at 15 miles. Within a short run: Upper Stump Lake out at 1.3 miles, Lower Flat Lake at about 1.8 miles, Deep Lake out at 2 miles, Swan Lake at about 4.4 miles and Gilbert Lake out at 5.5 miles. Rules can differ a short way off, since the county line is near.

• Where to Fish on Fowler Lake

  Our records carry no depth, so judge it from the bank. On a natural lake the weed line and the shelf beyond it do the work. Where the bottom changes texture, fish gather; find that line. Survey and observation records for Jersey County include orangethroat darter, bluegill, green sunfish, gizzard shad and logperch. County records show the wider picture rather than this one place. On Fowler Lake that means starting tight and working out.

• Seasonal Patterns

  Climate normals give 77°F for July and 28°F for January. The season stretches long at both ends here. Some winters give nothing at all, so plan for open water. February into May fishes hardest as the water warms. Keep it in mind when planning a trip to Fowler Lake. Barometric swings often matter more than the calendar.

• Tackle & Baits

  Access status is simply unknown for this water. The slipway at Upper Stump Lake is half a mile away. You will be walking about half a mile from the nearest car park. Toilets are half a mile away, which matters on a long session. A small crankbait along the drop and a worm in the thick stuff cover the bass. Season dates differ by species, so read the table. Some ground is open by custom rather than by right, so tread carefully. The nearest alternative is Upper Stump Lake, 1.3 miles out. Treat access at Fowler Lake as something to verify.