Logged catches
Top fish species at Leaf River
Check which species have trophy potential in Leaf River
Leaf River fishing reports
Continue browsing catches and catch locations in the Fishbrain app
When are Largemouth Bass biting on Leaf River?
Learn what time of year and day to go fishing at Leaf River. Download Fishbrain today to look for new fishing spots, scout new fishing access, or prep for your next trip.
Fishing regulations at Leaf River, IL
Disclaimer: Always check local fishing regulations, water access rights and land ownership before fishing, regardless of any catches logged in that area by the Fishbrain community. Fishbrain has mapped millions of acres of government-owned land across the USA to help you identify potential fishing access, but you are responsible for ensuring compliance with all legal requirements.
Fishing regulations in Illinois can change throughout the year. Make sure to check this page before fishing for the most up to date rules and regulations for the current season. Local regulations govern when you can fish, the max size of the fish you can keep, how many fish you can keep, and more.
Below you will see fishing regulations for catching Smallmouth bass as of May 3rd, 2026. To view regulations for a different fish species, please click on your preferred species in the drop-down.
Seasons
Bag limit
Aggregate
There is no statewide size limit. Daily harvest limit is 6 Bass, either singly or in the aggregate, except as specified under Site-Specific Regulations.
In streams and rivers (excluding the main-stem of the Mississippi, Ohio, including the Golconda Marina and Wabash Rivers) the daily harvest can contain no more than 3 Smallmouth Bass. In rivers and streams and their tributaries statewide, except for the Mississippi, Ohio (including the Golconda Marina), Wabash and Illinois Rivers, Calumet River, Lake Calumet Connecting Channel, Calumet Sag Channel and navigable portions of the Grand Calumet River and Little Calumet River, all Smallmouth Bass must be immediately released between April 1 and June 15.
Only statewide regulations are shown herein, but you can access Site-Specific Regulations online.
Micropterus dolomieui
Regulations for
FAQ about Leaf River fishing
- Smallmouth bass - 2 members reported to have caught this fish
- Channel catfish - 3 members reported to have caught this fish
- Largemouth bass - 2 members reported to have caught this fish
- @carter.maestas reported a nice Bluegill.
- @carter.maestas reported a nice Striped shiner.
- @levi.wolfrom reported a nice Smallmouth bass.
- @trreeclimber reported a nice Golden redhorse.
- @trreeclimber reported a nice Yellow bullhead.
Free trial available