
Carlyle Reservoir
Carlyle Lake, located in southern Illinois, is a massive reservoir covering over 24,000 acres. The lake was constructed in the mid-20th century to help control flooding along the Kaskaskia River and to provide a source of drinking water for the region. Today, Carlyle Lake is one of the most popular recreational destinations in the state, drawing visitors from all over the Midwest for fishing, boating, swimming, and camping. Carlyle Lake boasts an impressive array of fish species, making it a prime destination for anglers. The lake is home to a large population of catfish, including channel catfish, flathead catfish, and blue catfish. Other popular game fish include largemouth bass, crappie, walleye, sauger, and white bass. The lake also supports healthy populations of non-game fish such as carp, drum, and buffalo fish. Anglers can fish from the shore or launch their boats at one of the many public access points located around the lake. In addition to fishing, Carlyle Lake offers a wide range of recreational opportunities. Boating is a popular activity on the lake, with motorboats, sailboats, and personal watercraft all allowed. The lake has several marinas and boat ramps, as well as multiple campgrounds and picnic areas. Visitors can also enjoy hiking and biking on the trails located around the lake, or take a scenic drive on the nearby Illinois Route 127. One of the most unique features of Carlyle Lake is its extensive wetlands, which cover over 11,000 acres of the lake's shoreline. These wetlands are home to a diverse array of plants and animals, including several species of waterfowl and shorebirds. The wetlands also provide important habitat for fish, helping to maintain the lake's healthy fish populations. Overall, Carlyle Lake is an impressive recreational destination, offering a wide range of activities for visitors of all ages. Whether you're a fisherman looking to catch a trophy-sized catfish, or a family looking to spend a weekend camping and boating, Carlyle Lake has something for everyone.
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Carlyle Reservoir
Carlyle Lake, located in southern Illinois, is a massive reservoir covering over 24,000 acres. The lake was constructed in the mid-20th century to help control flooding along the Kaskaskia River and to provide a source of drinking water for the region. Today, Carlyle Lake is one of the most popular recreational destinations in the state, drawing visitors from all over the Midwest for fishing, boating, swimming, and camping. Carlyle Lake boasts an impressive array of fish species, making it a prime destination for anglers. The lake is home to a large population of catfish, including channel catfish, flathead catfish, and blue catfish. Other popular game fish include largemouth bass, crappie, walleye, sauger, and white bass. The lake also supports healthy populations of non-game fish such as carp, drum, and buffalo fish. Anglers can fish from the shore or launch their boats at one of the many public access points located around the lake. In addition to fishing, Carlyle Lake offers a wide range of recreational opportunities. Boating is a popular activity on the lake, with motorboats, sailboats, and personal watercraft all allowed. The lake has several marinas and boat ramps, as well as multiple campgrounds and picnic areas. Visitors can also enjoy hiking and biking on the trails located around the lake, or take a scenic drive on the nearby Illinois Route 127. One of the most unique features of Carlyle Lake is its extensive wetlands, which cover over 11,000 acres of the lake's shoreline. These wetlands are home to a diverse array of plants and animals, including several species of waterfowl and shorebirds. The wetlands also provide important habitat for fish, helping to maintain the lake's healthy fish populations. Overall, Carlyle Lake is an impressive recreational destination, offering a wide range of activities for visitors of all ages. Whether you're a fisherman looking to catch a trophy-sized catfish, or a family looking to spend a weekend camping and boating, Carlyle Lake has something for everyone.
Read more detailsCurrent Conditions
Water Temperature
Current water temperature for Carlyle Reservoir is 59°F.
Current Snapshot
Forecast: Friday, May 2
Thunderstorms
Hourly Insights
Temperature
Precipitation
Wind
Sun, Moon & UV
Solunar Fishing Forecast
Todays action is rated a 3 (scale is 0 thru 5, 5 is the best)
10:25 PM - 12:55 AM
10:01 AM - 12:31 PM
2:32 PM - 4:02 PM
5:24 AM - 6:54 AM
Outlook for Friday at Carlyle Reservoir
Expect temperatures ranging from 57°F to 69°F. There's a 49% chance of rain, potentially bringing around 0.07" rain. Winds will be averaging 5 mph, with potential gusts reaching up to 17 mph. The maximum UV index will be 4 (Moderate), so plan sun protection accordingly. For anglers, today's fishing action is rated 3/5 (Todays action is rated a 3 (scale is 0 thru 5, 5 is the best)). Look for the best bite times during the major periods around 10:25 PM and 10:01 AM, or try the minor windows near 2:32 PM and 5:24 AM for potential early morning or evening action. Check back for the latest conditions and forecasts for Carlyle Reservoir.
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Lake Information
Common Fish Species
Nearby Lakes
Water Temperature History
Trends for Carlyle Reservoir
Current Temp
Latest recorded surface temperature.
Lowest in Period
33°F
On Jan 22
Coldest point in the Last 12 Months.
Average in Period
54°F
Typical temp during the Last 12 Months.
Temperature Trend: Last 12 Months
Surface temperature over the selected period.
Key Observations (Last 12 Months)
- Warmest avg: July (79°F).
- Coolest avg: January (34°F).
- Rapid warming often occurs: April → May (+15°F).
- Sharpest cooling trend: November → December (-13°F).
Weather Forecast
Wind speed and pressure trends
Hourly Wind Forecast
Wind Direction
226°
Pressure
1010 mb
Cloud Cover
13%
Visibility
12 miles
Daily Pressure Forecast


Frequently Asked Questions About Carlyle Reservoir
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