Prairie State Wire

Visitors to the Illinois State Fair are encouraged to explore a range of fish and fishing activities during the final weekend at Conservation World. The fair, which concludes on August 18, offers both traditional and new exhibits related to fishing.

Kevin Irons, assistant fisheries chief for the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR), stated, "We have all the traditional favorites, including youth fishing and the giant aquarium filled with native fish, but we've also added some new things this year, including a sea lamprey, a catfish raceway, and fishing opportunities for anglers with disabilities."

Conservation World is a 30-acre park located in the northwest corner of the Illinois State Fairgrounds in Springfield. It is open daily from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., featuring various family-friendly activities. The tram service stops at its main entrance.

Among the highlights is a 2,800-gallon aquarium in the Fisheries Tent showcasing native fish species such as alligator gar and bass. Additional tanks contain other native aquatic life.

The IDNR collaborates with Fishing Has No Boundaries to assist those needing help accessing angling experiences from an accessible dock near the Fisheries Tent. Motorized reels are available for individuals with mobility issues.

Attendees can observe a sea lamprey, an invasive parasitic species known for affecting Great Lakes sportfishing.

Food options include Copi tacos and burgers available at Flippin' Fish Shack. Copi is marketed as a healthful protein source derived from invasive carp in local waterways.

New this year are banners displaying record catches of sportfish in Illinois and North America inside the Fisheries Tent.

Youth fishing clinics offer young visitors opportunities to participate in fishing activities throughout each day. Additionally, free fly-fishing classes and fly-tying demonstrations are available over the weekend.

Pond management advice will be provided by IDNR biologists who will be present to answer questions about various topics related to fishery management.