View Full Version : License on private ponds IL
Is a fishing license required to fish a private pond in Illinois. We manage our own pond, maintaining water quality, weed control and stocking. What are the State's rights to our pond? There is no public access.
Give 'em a call. 312.814.2070.
Thanks I called. Fishing license is required on private ponds such as we have surround by homes and a private association. Ponds on farms do not require licenses.
WAZ,
Boy,that answer took me by suprise. So, if more than one home (parcel of property) boarders the pond a liscense is required? Even 2 homes sharing the pond? I am not doubting the veracity of this, just trying to understand something new to me. I have a friend in Michigan with a pond that is shared by another neighbor, he's always claimed no liscense was needed. Different state , perhaps different rules sure, but interesting neverless.
Just buy a license and there is nothing to worry about no matter where you fish. CPR and/or take a little for dinner.
Over the years I've accumulated enough licences to wallpaper my living room. Just looking for an answer to a question. Thank you for your input.
Walleye
01-19-2001, 09:45 AM
Waz,
I understand the law to be that if you are the recorded landowner of the pond then you do not have to have a liscense...However, easements and community shared property require one. I am saying that if you are the recorded or listed land owner of a private pond then you do not need a liscense.You cannoot go on a private pond and say I do not need a liscense unless you were the landowner or family member. Isn't Illinois great! I grew up on a private lake with an association and people thought two things here: 1. I don't need a liscense to fisf a private lake and the 2. IL DNR couldn't enforce regulations on this body of water because it is private. WRONG.
Having a liscense is obvious...I wanted to know how the law was interpreted.