
Braidwood Lake
Braidwood Lake, located in Will County, Illinois, is a man-made reservoir with a surface area of 2,241 acres and an average depth of 8.76 feet. The shoreline length is approximately 15 miles, providing ample space for fishing and boating enthusiasts. Braidwood Lake is known for its diverse fish population, which includes blue catfish, bluegill, channel catfish, flathead catfish, hybrid striped bass, largemouth bass, and redear sunfish. The blue catfish population in Braidwood Lake is abundant, with fish ranging from 6 to 25 pounds. Blue catfish are a popular target for anglers due to their large size and challenging fighting ability. The channel catfish population is also plentiful, with fish ranging from 2 to 10 pounds. Flathead catfish can be found in the lake as well, with fish weighing up to 35 pounds. Braidwood Lake is also home to a healthy population of largemouth bass. The lake is known for producing quality-sized fish, with many fish weighing over 4 pounds. Anglers can expect to catch largemouth bass measuring up to 20 inches in length. The hybrid striped bass population is another notable feature of Braidwood Lake. These fish are known for their strong fighting ability and can grow up to 10 pounds in weight. In addition to the large predator fish, Braidwood Lake also has healthy populations of bluegill and redear sunfish. These panfish are a popular target for anglers and can be caught using a variety of techniques. The bluegill population in particular is quite prolific, with fish measuring up to 8 inches in length. Overall, Braidwood Lake offers a diverse fishery and ample opportunities for fishing enthusiasts of all skill levels. The lake's size and varied habitat provide a unique fishing experience, with opportunities to catch a variety of species throughout the year.
Read more
Braidwood Lake
Braidwood Lake, located in Will County, Illinois, is a man-made reservoir with a surface area of 2,241 acres and an average depth of 8.76 feet. The shoreline length is approximately 15 miles, providing ample space for fishing and boating enthusiasts. Braidwood Lake is known for its diverse fish population, which includes blue catfish, bluegill, channel catfish, flathead catfish, hybrid striped bass, largemouth bass, and redear sunfish. The blue catfish population in Braidwood Lake is abundant, with fish ranging from 6 to 25 pounds. Blue catfish are a popular target for anglers due to their large size and challenging fighting ability. The channel catfish population is also plentiful, with fish ranging from 2 to 10 pounds. Flathead catfish can be found in the lake as well, with fish weighing up to 35 pounds. Braidwood Lake is also home to a healthy population of largemouth bass. The lake is known for producing quality-sized fish, with many fish weighing over 4 pounds. Anglers can expect to catch largemouth bass measuring up to 20 inches in length. The hybrid striped bass population is another notable feature of Braidwood Lake. These fish are known for their strong fighting ability and can grow up to 10 pounds in weight. In addition to the large predator fish, Braidwood Lake also has healthy populations of bluegill and redear sunfish. These panfish are a popular target for anglers and can be caught using a variety of techniques. The bluegill population in particular is quite prolific, with fish measuring up to 8 inches in length. Overall, Braidwood Lake offers a diverse fishery and ample opportunities for fishing enthusiasts of all skill levels. The lake's size and varied habitat provide a unique fishing experience, with opportunities to catch a variety of species throughout the year.
Read more detailsCurrent Conditions
Water Temperature
Current water temperature for Braidwood Lake is 73°F.
Current Snapshot
Forecast: Friday, May 9
MostlyClear
Hourly Insights
Temperature
Precipitation
Wind
Sun, Moon & UV
Solunar Fishing Forecast
Todays action is rated a 2 (scale is 0 thru 5, 5 is the best)
5:00 AM - 5:00 AM
3:23 PM - 5:53 PM
9:53 PM - 11:23 PM
8:35 AM - 10:05 AM
Outlook for Friday at Braidwood Lake
Expect temperatures ranging from 39°F to 68°F. Skies look mostly clear with little chance of precipitation. Winds will be averaging 6 mph, with potential gusts reaching up to 15 mph. The maximum UV index will be 7 (High), so plan sun protection accordingly. For anglers, today's fishing action is rated 2/5 (Todays action is rated a 2 (scale is 0 thru 5, 5 is the best)). Look for the best bite times during the major periods around 5:00 AM and 3:23 PM, or try the minor windows near 9:53 PM and 8:35 AM for potential early morning or evening action. Check back for the latest conditions and forecasts for Braidwood Lake.
Lake Map Views

Try Premium Features
Find the fishing sweet spots! See detailed temperature readings throughout your lake.
No credit card required for preview
Lake Information
Common Fish Species
Nearby Lakes
Water Temperature History
Trends for Braidwood Lake
Current Temp
Latest recorded surface temperature.
Lowest in Period
46°F
On Dec 8
Coldest point in the Last 12 Months.
Average in Period
68°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: August (93°F).
- Coolest avg: December (50°F).
- Avg temps often suitable for swimming during June.
- Rapid warming often occurs: February → March (+10°F).
- Sharpest cooling trend: September → October (-14°F).
Weather Forecast
Wind speed and pressure trends
Hourly Wind Forecast
Wind Direction
37°
Pressure
1022 mb
Cloud Cover
1%
Visibility
17 miles
Daily Pressure Forecast


Frequently Asked Questions About Braidwood Lake
Get accurate, up-to-date information about conditions at Braidwood Lake.