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Fishing at the Complex
On-site fishing is a relaxing recreational opportunity available at the World Shooting and Recreational Complex near Sparta. Lakes are open from sunrise to sunset.
The Illinois Department of Natural Resources Division of Fisheries has been active in the management of the shooting complex lakes since they opened to public fishing in 2008.
The site contains three lakes – East Lake, 134 acres; Derby Lake, 21 acres; and RV Lake, 15 acres – that are open to fishing. Derby and East lakes have concrete boat ramps and ample parking, while RV Lake has no boat ramp but plenty of shoreline access for anglers. East Lake has a 10-horsepower boat motor limit. Gas motors are not allowed at Derby or RV lakes.
Rainbow trout are stocked at Derby Lake in the spring and fall. East and Derby lakes contain a diverse fishery composed of more than 20 species of fish, while RV Lake contains principally sport fishes.
East Lake is on the northeast side of the complex on a 117-acre strip pit, and Derby Lake is to the southeast of the Main Event Center. Each are loaded with largemouth and smallmouth bass, bluegill, redear sunfish, channel catfish, trout, and white, black and hybrid crappie.
The addition of boat ramps and fishing docks have made this area popular among anglers, and it's another great way for visitors to spend their day at the complex.
Fishing details
The Illinois Department of Natural Resources Division of Fisheries has put together helpful fact sheets about fishing at each of the lakes at the World Shooting and Recreational Complex.
For more information about fishing opportunities in Illinois, visit IDNR's ifishillinois.org.
Fishing regulations
All fish: Two-pole and line fishing only.
Largemouth or smallmouth bass: 18-inch minimum length. Limit one fish per day.
Bluegill or redear sunfish: Limit 15 fish per day.
White, black or hybrid crappie: 10-inch minimum length. Limit 10 fish per day.
Channel catfish: Limit six fish per day.
Vehicle regulations
Derby Lake: Electric motors only
East Lake: 10-horsepower limit
RV Lake: Electric motors only
For questions, call 618-295-2700.