Avid Fisherman Picks Best Spots In Hyde Park

CHICAGO, IL — The year's prime fishing season is well underway, and Hyde Park is a hotbed for the activity with many of the best spots in the entire city located nearby. Ricky Castillo, a lifelong fishing enthusiast and South Side native, has traveled often to the neighborhood from suburban Evergreen Park to come across his largest finds. Here, Castillo outlines his three favorite spots in the neighborhood, what he's found there and the best time to go.

The inland water near the Jackson Park Yacht Club, steps away from the Lakefront Trail path and near La Rabida Children's Hospital, is the best, he says. There he's found "all kinds of fish," including a number of carp, bass, walleye, perch and lake bass.

"You also get a great view of the sunrise on a clear day," he said.

Which is another reason why when it comes to fishing, the earlier the better.

Castillo says the best time to show up at your primary spot in the summer is 5 a.m. because it's not that hot yet and the fish are just waking up and eating.

"It's time for breakfast... especially bass," Castillo said.

Not far from the Jackson Park Yacht Club is the 59th Street Harbor, where you can see Castillo attempt to reel in the largest carp he's ever caught below, and the Jackson Park Lagoon behind the Museum of Science and Industry.

"Last time I went there I caught a trout with a worm," he said.

Access this area from Lake Shore Drive via Science Drive.

Wherever you fish, Castillo recommends using lures, specifically pointing out one called the "Flicker Shad."

"You'll catch bass on that, guaranteed."

Photo via YouTube screenshot