Catch of the day: Winter fishing in Chicago remains a tradition frozen in time

In defiance of the polar conditions, Chicago's angler community is still flocking to the lakefront for winter perch fishing this season, with two key spots: the north wall at Navy Pier, according to the Chicago Sun-Times, and the old South Works slips drawing crowds despite cold winds and ice.

In the Windy City, wintertime is known to bring in some of the best hauls, putting avid fishermen across the region to the test. During this time of year, yellow perch can be seen swarming in schools around Lake Michigan, giving new and old fishers alike a great opportunity to score some catches (and maybe dinner), and while locals prize the mild, sweet taste, they are restricted to a fifteen-fish-per-day limit.

Navy Pier fishing holds steady

Fishing continues along Navy Pier's north wall, as it has for decades, said project developer Randy Podolsky, according to the Chicago Sun-Times, despite recent construction on the new Navy Pier Marina.

Anglers can fish the ten feet between the wall and docks, with areas east and west of the marina planning to stay open just like before. Off-season dock access won't happen this winter due to work, but is expected to return once construction finalizes. Podolsky noted that fishing from the pier will stay intact, stating, "There will be plenty of room.”

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At the former U.S. Steel South Works, the North Slip near 85th Street packs in cars like the old mill days, as reported by Block Club Chicago. It's one of the city's top perch fishing hotspots.

It’s the lobster of Chicago, said Glen Middleton, a Canaryville resident who has fished there for decades, according to Block Club. Dozens visit daily from Aurora, Indiana, and beyond, even on slow days.

Anglers like Aaron Rhynhard from Beecher prefer it over closer spots. "I’ll hit up others, but this one’s a better one," he said. Raul Perez of Aurora called it a great hangout with all ethnicities.

Winter perch remain one of the top attractions, but other popular catches include lake trout and Chinook, while savvy wildlife like loons snatch bait nearby.

According to Block Club’s report, Michelle In, from North Chicago, drives 50 miles weekly. "This is a great place to be," she said in 20-degree cold, catching and releasing perch.

Chicago winter has developed a small but tight-knit community that, despite coming from different backgrounds, comes together in their shared passions. This is one of the main reasons winter fishing has remained a popular tradition in the city of big shoulders, bringing people from all walks of life under a single pastime!