When I am up there ( usually most of the summer) I fish Silver Lake, Wisconsin. It is right over the line, next to Wilmot, WI. I will also fish Delavan and sometimes Okauchee/Oconomowoc/Pewaukee for Muskies.
I used to keep my 16ft Carolina Skiff on the Illinois Chain. In two years I did a LOT of fishing and darn little catching. I would often go three and four times a week in the mornings.
I think that the re-stocking money for fisheries in ILL went to Springfield and never came back home. Wisconsin seems to do a better job of putting fish back in the lakes.
So, if you have an interest in trying some Southern Wisconsin lakes, you are welcome to join me some morning during the week. I rarely fish on weekends, due to the crowds.
If you want me to join you someday for a shot at the Chain again, I will buy an Illinois license. I always buy a Wisconsin non-resident license. It isn't cheap, but is worth it to me. I don't buy an Illinois non-resident because I rarely fish in Illinois. But I will if it makes sense this next year.
We won't arrive in Fox Lake until June 1 this year, due to some travel plans.
Presume you are aware of the Tinboats fishing outing in late June, near Madison Wi. I intend to be there if I can find a tinny owner to ride with. They probably wouldn't like to see my fiberglass Carolina Skiff show up. My tinny - 160W Lowe - stays here in TX.
Rich