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Mautino State Fish and Wildlife Area is a former strip mine site of 900 acres that is now home to a total of 16 ponds and lakes, making it an idyllic location for kayaking, canoeing, and boating. Located south of Sheffield and west of Buda in Bureau County, the site is named for former State Representative Richard "Dick" Mautino, who served in the Illinois General Assembly from 1975 until his death in 1991. It is open year-round and operated by the staff of the Hennepin Canal State Park.
The bodies of water at Mautino's range in size from 0.4 acres to 15.5 acres and are deep, measuring 35 to 45 feet at their lowest points. Shoreline access is limited on many of the lakes due to their steep banks, requiring visitors to use caution. Fish species include largemouth bass, bluegill, redear sunfish, channel catfish, and crappie. The two largest lakes, Boss Lake and Osprey Lake, have boat ramps, and Osprey Lake also has a fishing pier. Only electric trolling motors are allowed at this site.
Outdoor toilets are located at the first lake inside the entrance, Boss Lake, and another halfway through the park at Osprey Lake. There are no drinking fountains or running water at this site so guests will want to plan ahead by bringing their own drinking water.
Northwestern Illinois
Buda Blacktop, Co Rd. 1210 N Ave
Buda
41.323
-89.719
