Illinois - Lake Shelbyville
The muskie fishing just keeps getting better and better at this huge reservoir. Just ask Matt Carmean, who caught a 39-pound 8-ounce, 50 3/4-inch trophy in 2002. Many muskies are caught at the dam end of the lake, near Lithia Springs Marina. Speed-troll a Creek Chub Wooden Pikie in the prop wash and cast big bucktail spinners over points. Lithia Springs Marina, 800-447-4121; one-eleven.net/~lithiam

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Guide's Tips
Species: Crappies
Guide: Steve Welch; lakeshelbyvilleguide.com; 217-762-7257
Rig Specifics: A medium-sized rod with 6-pound-test line tied to a white and chartreuse tube jig.
Quick Tip: The fish usually sit in 13 to 18 feet of water: the best time is in the morning.
Where to Fish: The north end of the lake is the best spot for crappies.