Agencies
Services
Fishing
With abundant largemouth bass, bluegill, crappie and catfish, Peabody-River King’s many lakes and ponds provide excellent fishing opportunities to thousands of anglers annually. The location of the main boat ramp in the northern part of the area allows fishermen access to several of the site’s larger lakes. Ponds provide good fishing opportunities in more secluded settings for anglers with small boats or canoes. Trout fishing is available at Willow Lake during trout season and requires a Trout stamp.
Boating and fishing regulations vary with the size of the water body being fished. Larger lakes more than 60 acres in size have a 10-horsepower limit and a “no-wake” rule. On smaller lakes, either trolling motors or bank fishing only is permitted. All fishing regulations are posted.
Hunting
Perhaps the most popular hunting activity at Peabody-River King is dove hunting, which occurs in the East Subunit. Steel shot is required. Upland game, archery deer hunting and limited furbearer hunting are also allowed. Peabody River King has a site-specific shot gun deer season. Hunters must apply for a special permit. Peabody River King has a site-specific shot gun deer season. Hunters must apply for a special permit.
From Nov. 1 through Feb. 28, the North Subunit serves as a waterfowl rest area and is closed to all public activity, including fishing. The East Subunit is closed to hunting from Nov 1 through Feb. 28, although trapping is allowed by permit. Hunter fact sheets, available from the site, provide specific information.
For more information, visit huntillinois.org.
Wildlife
Large numbers of migrating ducks and Canada geese visit Peabody-River King State Fish and Wildlife Area each fall, and occasionally swans are seen. A resident Canada goose population nests on the lakes’ shores and islands. Other nesting waterfowl species include wood ducks, mallards and blue-winged teal. In addition, a roosting area for short-eared owls is maintained at the site.
Facilities
Picnic Tables and toilets are available. In addition to fishing and hunting, hiking is popular among those who enjoy viewing wildlife.
For more information about Peabody-River King State Fish and Wildlife Area, call 618/475-9339 or contact the site superintendent at Kaskaskia River State Fish and Wildlife Area, 10981 Conservation Road, Baldwin, IL 62217, phone (618) 785-2555.