Six Black Crappie were collected in 2017. Fish measured from 9.5” to 11.1” long, and weighed up to 0.8 lbs., 100% were over 9” long, 83% were over 10” and 17% exceeded 11” but none were over 12” long. Crappie were tied tight to cover.
In 2017, bluegill collected ranged from 3.6” to 7.4”. 42% were greater than 6” long, 17% were over 7” but none exceeded 7.5”. Being such a deep lake, larger bluegill may be present, but occupying the outer weed edge where we are not efficient at sampling with electrofishing gear.
In 2017, bass collected during electrofishing measured from 6.9” to 20.5”, and weighed up to 4.7 lbs. 88% were longer than 12”, 38% over 14” (legal size), 27% exceeded 16” and 8% were over 18” long. Bass-catching should be very fun in Powderhorn Lake, and as a result of the bass size structure, a very nice pan fishery should be developing.
Location: Powderhorn Lake is located on Brainard Ave, east of Burnham Ave in the Village of Burnham, Cook County Illinois.
Description: Powderhorn Lake was developed by the Forest Preserve District of Cook County in 1958, however it has glacial origins and was part of the Calumet Area Wetland Complex. Powderhorn Lake is 48 acres; shoreline length 1.3 miles; watershed 192 acres (4 to 1); maximum depth 18 feet; average depth 9 feet. There is a concrete boat ramp and an outhouse, but no concessions are available. Kayaks, canoes and row boats with electric trolling motors are allowed but no outboard motors can be attached to the boat.
History and Status of the Sport Fishery: Periodic fish surveys are conducted to update the status of the fishery. Very little stocking takes place in Powderhorn Lake. The fishery is maintained by natural reproduction.
Additional Lake Information: Electric trolling motor only, no gas outboards can be attached. Two pole and line fishing only.
Site Regulations:
Bluegill: 15 fish daily creel limit, no length limit.
Channel Catfish: 6 fish daily creel limit.
Largemouth Bass: 14” minimum length limit ; 6 fish daily creel limit.
White, Black, or Hybrid Crappie: 15 fish daily creel limit, no length limit.
Northern Pike: 3 fish per day, 24” length limit
Contact Information: Forest Preserve District of Cook County: 800-870-3666 IDNR Fisheries Biologist, Seth Love 630-360-4772
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