🏆🏆🏆🏆 Southern IL Powerhouse — 1,775-acre cooling lake with exceptional bass and catfish fishing — one of the top fisheries in southern Illinois
Newton Lake State Fish and Wildlife Area centers on a 1,775-acre cooling lake in Jasper County — one of the premier bass fisheries in southern Illinois. The warm-water discharge from the Newton Power Station creates ideal growing conditions for largemouth bass, channel catfish, and crappie. Newton Lake consistently produces trophy-sized bass exceeding 8 pounds. The surrounding uplands provide quality dove and quail hunting habitat.
Visitor Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Jasper County, IL |
| Entry Fee | Free |
| Lake | 1,775 acres! |
| Bass | Trophy 8lb+ largemouth! |
About Newton Lake
Newton Lake State Fish and Wildlife Area in Jasper County surrounds a 1,775-acre power plant cooling lake — one of the premier fishing destinations in central Illinois. The lake’s warm waters accelerate fish growth, producing trophy-class largemouth bass, walleye, and channel catfish. The surrounding grasslands and wetlands attract waterfowl and upland game birds.
Newton Lake State Fish and Wildlife Area in Jasper County provides recreation on a 1,775-acre power plant cooling lake in southeastern Illinois. The warm water discharge creates productive fishing — the lake is especially known for excellent largemouth bass and crappie fishing. These power plant lakes are among Illinois’s most productive fisheries.
Things to Do
Fishing for trophy largemouth bass, walleye, and catfish (the warm waters produce fast-growing fish), boating, waterfowl hunting (seasonal), and birdwatching. One of Illinois’ best fishing lakes.
Fishing for largemouth bass, crappie, and catfish (the warm water produces trophy-sized fish), boating, hunting (seasonal), and birdwatching. One of southeastern Illinois’s best fishing lakes.
Insider Tips
Cooling lake fishing: Newton Lake is a 1,775-acre cooling lake with warm water discharge that creates exceptional fishing year-round. Pro tip: Trophy largemouth bass, hybrid striped bass, and channel catfish thrive in the heated water. Local knowledge: The north end near the warm water discharge is most productive in cooler months.
Best Time to Visit
Year-round: Warm water keeps fish active. Spring: Bass spawning season. Fall: Less crowded. Winter: One of the few ice-free lakes in Illinois — fishing stays productive.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Newton Lake warm year-round?
Yes. Newton Lake receives thermal discharge from the adjacent power plant, keeping water temperatures significantly warmer than natural lakes. This prevents ice formation most winters and keeps fish actively feeding year-round, making it one of Illinois’ most unique fisheries.
Make it a road trip: Pair a visit with Sam Parr State Fish and Wildlife Area (a short drive away) or Bohm Woods Nature Preserve (within about an hour’s drive).
