Illinois fishing licenses require that all fish caught in the state are caught by the state, regardless of the location.
However, the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (DNR) states that fish caught on Illinois lakes, rivers, or streams that have been fished are exempt from this requirement.
This exemption is designed to allow a recreational angler to have the freedom to hunt or fish for trout without having to comply with the federal Fish and Wildlife Service’s requirements.
Fish caught on state lakes or streams are not subject to the Illinois Fish and Game regulations, and are therefore considered Illinois fish.
For more information on the Illinois fishing license exemption, go to the DNR website.
If you have questions about the Illinois Fishing License exemption, you can contact the Illinois DNR at (217) 735-6010.
