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Sahara Woods is located 5 miles west of Harrisburg, Illinois, south of State Route 13. The site is made up of vacated strip mine land and encompasses approximately 4000 acres. Sahara Lake and numerous strip cuts make up approximately 270 acres of fishable water. Sahara Woods also has nearly 30 miles of beautiful OHV trails open to the public.
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 east of Sahara Lake. Sahara Lake has a 10 horsepower or less motor restriction and all other strip cuts are electric motor only. Anglers can 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.
For more information please visit the IFish Illinois site or consult the Illinois Fishing Information booklet
Southern Illinois
1210 Tipple Rd.
Carrier Mills
62917
