Largemouth black bass and panfish are the most prevalent species caught from Leisure Lake. Catfish, some of good size, are also inhabitants of the larger body. Both ponds are complete with their own gazebo.
On Leisure Lake, a small spinner bait, Texas-rigged plastic worm, or just a worm and bobber provides fun for Villagers and their guests. All in all good fishing ( and catching ) opportunities are located right on the Village property or close by for those with a private boat.
Access to the Chain O' Lakes is nearby. The Chain of Lakes State Park entrance is just a few miles from the Leisure Village gate. The free boat launch is often a very busy place on weekends.
The Northern Chain contains Grass Lake, Channel Lake, Lake Marie, Bluff Lake, and more. All are part of the Illinois Chain O' Lakes system waterways.
Leisure Lake, retiree's fishing paradise
Peace and togetherness
Caught on Silver Lake 12 miles away
The Chain, in turn, is fed via the Fox River which starts in mid-Wisconsin. Walleye, Smallmouth and Largemouth Bass, Northern Pike and Muskies are the most sought after game fish in the area. Panfishing is prevalent, and catfish bring their fans out for a day of fun in the sun.
Salmon, Brown Trout, and Steelheads are all available from any of the sport fishing ports along Lake Michigan. Kenosha, Wisconsin and Winthrop Harbor, Illinois are an easy drive. Both ports offer deep lake fishing opportunities. Winthrop Harbor is only 26 miles away.
A number of freshwater streams flow into the Great Lakes. From those venues, located near and above Milwaukee (approximately 60 miles away) , one can find fly rod efforts well rewarded during the right times of the year.
Trout streams and some rivers holding trout are only a few hours away in the State of Wisconsin.
Boating from Cabin Cruisers and Cigarette Boats to Rowboats are all found in the area. Pistakee Bay Yacht Club brings out the sailors. A long run down the Fox River through the McHenry Docks ( some of the busiest locks in the U.S. ) keeps the cruisers happy.
On Thursday nights, racing boats often break the relative calm of Grass Lake during the summer months. Water skiing and tubing in the quieter bays of the Chain's waterways are very popular.
A circle tour of the Chain O' Lakes via its many channels is accomplished every weekend of the summer. Restaurants along the shorelines attract the hungry sailors and their guests.
Lake Geneva, Wisconsin is but 25 miles away. It is the home of America's Cup yachtsman Buddy Melges.
