Cash Prizes Available at Lake County Forest Preserves Carp-O-Rama

Submission by the Lake County Forest Preserves

Grab a fishing pole and come out to Carp-O-Rama on September 10 at Independence Grove Forest Preserve in Libertyville.

This fishing competition is a chance to win prizes while you help reduce the overpopulation of carp in the lake at Independence Grove. All ages are welcome. Fish as long as you want from 6:30 a.m. to noon in the lake’s South Bay only.

A valid Illinois fishing license is required for ages 16 and older. Purchase at the Independence Grove marina, many sporting goods stores, or from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources.

Cash prizes will be awarded for the highest total amount of carp caught and for the largest single carp caught. Judging will be by weight. Winners do not need to be present. Contestants must register and pay the $10 per person event fee at the marina prior to fishing in order to be eligible to win.

Preserve parking is free for Lake County residents; $10 for nonresidents. Driver's license is required for proof of residency.

Carp-O-Rama is a fun way to help restore the lake’s ecosystem, which is home to more than a dozen fish species. The common carp is the only non-native species among them and it is widespread throughout the lake.

Carp are bottom feeders, an eating form that disrupts the habitat of the native fish.The tournament takes place in the lake’s South Bay. Due to the carp’s classification as an injurious species, there is no limit on how many can be caught and removed during the event.

Carp may be kept or turned over to the forest preserve staff at the event.Call 847-968-3499 for more information.

Independence Grove Forest Preserve is located at 16400 West Buckley Road in Libertyville. Directions are available here.