The lake has earned the reputation of being one of the best waterfowl hunting areas in the state for ducks and geese. The Rend Lake Hunting Preserve managed by the Rend Lake Conservancy district features dams located across the Big Muddy River and Casey Fork Creek. The upstream areas they impound, are planted to a variety of crops and flooded when mature for optimum waterfowl hunting. There are goose pits at Whistling Wings Access Area and staked locations throughout the Casey Fork Sub impoundment. There also are considerable acreages at high elevations that provide excellent habitat and opportunity for archery and firearm deer hunting. Another popular attraction is the annual controlled pheasant hunt held at Wayne Fitzgerald State Park. Check out the Illinois Department of Natural Resources website for helpful information about hunting at Rend Lake.

Rend Lake is a relatively shallow lake and is quite popular and productive for both sport and commercial fisherman alike. At 18,900 acres, it is one of Illinois largest and best lakes for fishing Crappie, Channel Catfish and Hybrid Striped Bass and Bluegill. This makes Rend Lake one of the most popular fishing destinations in the state. Fisherman have also started to talk about the opportunities for taking out large flathead catfish as well. Also, a commercial fishing program is conducted each winter which allows the public to buy fresh buffalo, carp and other commercial species. Check out the Illinois Department of Natural Resources website or the Army Corps website for more information about the lake. Numerous boat ramps and miles of shoreline ensure that whether your fishing from a boat or from the shore you’ll have plenty of room to fish without being crowded.