IDNR Web Site Provides Detailed Information for Anglers
Website Proves Popular in First Year Online

Springfield— As fishing season begins in Illinois, a web site continues to provide detailed information for anglers. The site, www.ifishIllinois.org, includes information ranging from places to fish, how to get a fishing license, scientific research about fishing, activities for families and kids, and opportunities for anglers who are disabled.

“Before taking off on a fishing trip, I’d encourage anglers to stop off on the information superhighway,” said Illinois Department of Natural Resources Director Joel Brunsvold. “This is even a good place to visit on your computer on afternoons when you’re daydreaming about fishing. This is an example of the State of Illinois helping the average resident maximize enjoyment in their leisure time.”

The web site, www.IfishIllinois.org debuted last spring. Last year, during the 2004 fishing season, the site was visited 1.7 million times. Since April 1, 2005, usage has increased, with more than 100,000 hits each week. The web site can be reached independently, or through the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, at http://www.dnr.state.il.us.

The web site is updated regularly, to include weekly fishing reports, sport fishing prospects, and angler records. Information is provided about more than 70 inland lakes, eight major rivers and streams, and Lake Michigan. Lake maps are included.

“The wealth of information would be overwhelming, if it weren’t so clearly labeled,” said Mike Conlin, IDNR Director of Resource Conservation. “The features for families are especially appealing. We even show kids locations where they can check out fishing gear if they don’t have any of their own.

The Department’s fisheries programs are also highlighted on the website, including information on the Tackle Loaner, Urban Fishing, and Hatcheries and Stocking Programs. The web site www.IfishIllinois.org was developed cooperatively by two divisions of DNR – the Division of Fisheries and the Illinois Natural History Survey -- and is partially funded by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Sport Fish Restoration Fund.
Interviews are available about the fishing information web site. Contact Gayle Simpson at 217/558-1543 or www.gayle_simpson@cms.state.il.us.

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