Omaha City Reservoir in Gallatin County: How and When to Fish It

• Overview

  Omaha City Reservoir is one of the Gallatin County listings for Illinois. What surrounds it is open valley. At 24 acres it is the sort of place you fish for an evening rather than a day. It is low-lying compared with other Illinois water we list. Norris City lies 6.2 miles from the water. Further out sit Eldorado (8.4 miles) and Shawneetown (14 miles). The line between counties passes nearby, which can change who manages the water.

• Where to Fish on Omaha City Reservoir

  Depth is not on record here, so the bank has to tell you. Look for where the old bank line still shows under the surface. Built water gives depth close in, which suits a bank angler. Species logged across Gallatin County include bluegill, gizzard shad, longear sunfish and freshwater drum. County records show what lives in the area; the local agency holds the water-by-water list. Work Omaha City Reservoir in sections rather than trying to cover it.

• Seasonal Patterns

  Seasonal averages run from 31°F in January up to 78°F in July. Temperature moves within a narrow band, and so does the fishing. In milder years the edges alone go, and the middle never sets. The hot months push the fishing to dawn and dusk. Keep it in mind when planning a trip to Omaha City Reservoir.

• Tackle & Baits

  Access status is simply unknown for this water. Public data records a boat ramp half a mile out. For the catfish, fish bottom baits into the deeper holes and let them sit. A landowner's word beats anything printed elsewhere. Signs go up and come down, so check on the day. If the gate is shut, Sandy Run Lake at 3.4 miles is the nearest alternative. Check the position on Omaha City Reservoir before loading the car.