Fishing & Boating
Pond Fishing
Hoffman Estates Park District offers fishing at 15 stocked ponds throughout Hoffman Estates. Our ponds contain a variety of fish, including Largemouth Bass, Bluegill, Channel Catfish, and Northern Pike. We ask that anglers observe catch-and-release practices in our lakes.
While fish can be caught at any of our ponds, you may have better success at Westbury Park, South Ridge Park, North Ridge Park, Chestnut Park, Highland Park, Black Bear Park, and Whispering Lake Park.
Fishing licenses are required to fish in all HEParks lakes. Licenses may be purchased online from the state or at a local store.
Pond Locations
- Black Bear Park*
- Charlemagne Park
- Chestnut Park*
- Evergreen Park
- Fabbrini Park
- Highland Park*
- North Ridge Park*
- North Twin Park
- South Ridge Park*
- South Twin Park
- Vogelei Park
- Westbury Lake Park *
- Whispering Lake Park*
- Winding Trails Basin
*Denotes the best ponds for fishing success.
Boating
The use of rowboats, canoes, stand-up paddleboards, kayaks, and small sailboats (maximum length of 17 feet) is permitted on Park District lakes, provided they display a valid district boating identification decal.
How do I obtain a boating identification decal?
Boating decals are obtained annually, from January 1 to December 31, at the Triphahn Center, 1685 W. Higgins Road, Hoffman Estates. Registration is free of charge. The district requires all boats to be skippered by individuals aged 14 or older.
Where can I use my watercraft?
Once registered, watercraft may be used on any lagoon, pond, or body of water controlled by the Hoffman Estates Park District.
Can I use a powered motor?
Gasoline-powered motor-driven watercraft are not permitted on lagoons, ponds, or bodies of water controlled by the Hoffman Estates Park District.
When can I boat?
Boating is allowed only during daylight hours unless specifically authorized in writing by the Executive Director.
Questions? Contact: Matt Schiller
