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About Sahara Woods State Recreation Area

SaharaWoods

In July of 2011, the site was opened for the first time to public fishing.  Currently, only two boat ramps are located at Sahara Woods, one on the 98-acre Sahara Lake, and one on a 15-acre strip cut located to the east of Sahara Lake.  Sahara Lake has a 10 horsepower or less motor restriction and all other strip cuts are electric motor only. Anglers are allowed to use “carry-in” boats such as canoes, kayaks, and small boats on all strip pits currently open to bank fishing.

Users should be extremely cautious as this site is extremely rugged and shoreline areas drop off very quickly.  Anglers are encouraged to familiarize themselves with site boundaries and remain on open roads and parking lots while fishing at Sahara Woods.

Sahara Lake is approximately 98 acres with a handicap-accessible boat ramp, parking lot, and restroom. Sportfish in the lake include largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill, redear and channel catfish.

Beginning Dec. 13, 2024, Sahara Woods SRA will have nearly 30 miles of OHV trails open to the public. Click the activities link for further information.

For more information please visit the IFish Illinois site or by consulting the Illinois Fishing Information booklet.