Turkey Bayou near Murphysboro: Fishing Spots, Seasons and Access

• Overview

  Turkey Bayou is listed under Jackson County, Illinois. Height above sea level is 341 feet. At roughly 13 acres, the whole thing is within casting reach of a single walk. It is one of the smaller waters we list in Jackson County. 7 miles away sits Murphysboro, the nearest town. After that come Carbondale at 11 miles and De Soto at 14 miles. Two sets of local rules meet not far from this water.

• Where to Fish on Turkey Bayou

  There is no published depth for this one, so start shallow and work out. Still water like this holds fish on the edges rather than out in the open. The productive water is a rod length or two out, not a hundred. Open biodiversity records for Jackson County list bluegill, orangethroat darter and green sunfish. The county list is broader than any single water. Turkey Bayou gives up its fish to patience rather than distance.

• Seasonal Patterns

  In an average year July sits at 78°F and January at 31°F. The year gives four workable seasons without severe ends. In milder years the edges alone go, and the middle never sets. The cooler months are the comfortable ones to fish here. It holds true on Turkey Bayou more years than not.

• Tackle & Baits

  Public sources are silent on who controls the bank. Launching is at Turkey Bayou, about half a mile away. Public data has parking about half a mile from the shore. Overnight stays are possible half a mile away. A picnic site half a mile off makes this workable with family in tow. Check whether a boat is allowed before you tow one. Keep proof of licence with you rather than in the car. Chautauqua Lake at 6.5 miles is the sensible second choice. Treat Turkey Bayou as unsettled until someone local tells you otherwise.