Friday, October 09, 2020
Chicago Sun-Times
by Dale Bowman

The Forest Preserves of Cook County announced its procedures and plans for opening, slightly delayed, for fall trout at the usual lakes.

I am glad to see FPCC went with an announced opening rather than a so-called soft opening. Soft openings this spring, after the delay at the start of the pandemic restrictions, led to anglers who were tipped off getting the jump on the spring-trout season.

Some may quibble with the mid-week opening, but I understand that should help with congregating and social distancing.

Other options that I thought might have worked would have be having opening weekend restricted to those 15 or younger; or having somebody restrict the number of anglers at each site at any given time, but both of those options would have issues of their own, too.

Hi Dale,

The Forest Preserves of Cook County fall trout season will start at sunrise on Wednesday, October 21 at Axehead Lake, Belleau Lake, Busse Reservoir – North Pool, Sag Quarry East, Horsetail Lake and Green Lake. These lakes will be closed to all fishing from Monday, October 12, until sunrise on Wednesday, October 21.

We ask that anglers follow public health guidelines when enjoying trout season: Physical distance at least six feet from other visitors who do not live in your household. Wear a mask to protect yourself and others. Wash your hands before and after visiting. And please help us out by carrying out any trash from your time in the forest preserves.

Thanks, and have a good weekend,