A fish salvage declaration has been issued by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources for Little Grassy Lake, a popular fishing destination located in southern Illinois. This declaration is a result of rehabilitation plans for the lake’s dam and spillway, which have reached the end of their design life. The IDNR states that the dam and spillway structure has aged significantly beyond its engineered design life. As a result, the department has deemed a complete lake draw-down necessary to initiate repairs. This process will put the fish population in imminent danger of loss if left unaddressed.
Salvage Methods and Regulations
- Anglers may take fish by two-pole line fishing or use approved fishing gear such as pitchforks, gigs, bow and arrow devices, and other hand-held devices to catch species such as carp, carpsuckers, buffalo, gar, bowfin and suckers.
- No daily or possession limits are in place for any species during the fish salvage declaration, allowing anglers to take as many fish as they can within the specified timeframe.
- However, there are regulations regarding the handling and disposal of fish.
Regulations on Handling and Disposal
- No fish may be cleaned on site during the fish salvage declaration, and offal must not be dumped on the site.
Background and Location
Little Grassy Lake is a 1,000-acre lake located in the Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge complex between Marion and Carbondale in Williamson County. The lake is operated by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
The lake is situated in a beautiful setting, surrounded by rolling hills and lush vegetation. It is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering opportunities for fishing, hunting, and wildlife viewing.
Implications and Timing
The fish salvage declaration will remain in effect until April 1, 2026, providing anglers with a window of opportunity to take advantage of this unique situation.
During this time, salvage operations may be conducted, and anglers are encouraged to report any sightings of fish to the relevant authorities.
| Species | Approved Methods |
|---|---|
| Carp | Pitchfork, gigs, bow and arrow devices |
| Carpsuckers | Pitchfork, gigs, bow and arrow devices |
| Buffalo | Pitchfork, gigs, bow and arrow devices |
| Gar | Pitchfork, gigs, bow and arrow devices |
| Bowfin | Pitchfork, gigs, bow and arrow devices |
| Suckers | Pitchfork, gigs, bow and arrow devices |
“The fish salvage declaration is a temporary measure to ensure the long-term sustainability of the lake’s ecosystem. We urge anglers to exercise caution and follow all regulations to minimize the impact on the environment.” – Illinois Department of Natural Resources
The fish salvage declaration is a crucial step in addressing the issues faced by Little Grassy Lake. By providing a window of opportunity for anglers to take advantage of this situation, the IDNR aims to minimize the impact on the environment while ensuring the long-term sustainability of the lake’s ecosystem.
While the declaration may seem like a positive development for anglers, it is essential to remember that the lake’s fish population is in imminent danger of loss. The IDNR emphasizes the importance of following all regulations to minimize the impact on the environment.
The IDNR has implemented measures to ensure the long-term sustainability of the lake’s ecosystem.
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