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Lake Catherine

Deepest Lake, Best Bluegill on the Chain

Lake Catherine is the smallest major Chain O Lakes lake at 149.5 acres but features an exceptional 45-foot average depth, making it one of the deepest relative to its size. Known as the premier bluegill fishing destination and the sister lake to Channel Lake.

Lake Size

150 acres

Average Depth

45 ft

Maximum Depth

60 ft

Body Type

Man-Made Lake

Map & Quick Facts

  • County
    lake
  • Connection Type
    Channel Connected
  • Nearby Communities
    Antioch, Channel Lake
  • Speed Limit
    Full power – standard no-wake zones apply
  • Swimming Allowed
    Yes

Boating & Lake Access

Boat Launches

2

Marinas

1

Access Points

2
Two launch ramps located in Lake Catherine. Additional access through connecting channels to Channel Lake with its half dozen ramps.
Fox Waterway Agency sticker required. Access to Channel Lake marina services through direct connection.

Activities & Rentals

Activities Available

Boating, Fishing, Kayaking / Canoeing

Equipment Rentals Available

Kayaks

Lake Catherine

Green Sunfish, White Sucker, Freshwater Drum, Carp, Warmouth, Pumpkinseed, Sauger, Flathead Catfish, Bullhead, Rock Bass, Hybrid Bass, White Bass, Muskie, Smallmouth Bass, Yellow Perch, Walleye, Channel Catfish, White Crappie, Black Crappie, Bluegill, Northern Pike, Largemouth Bass

Fishing Information

Fishing Quality

Excellent – Premier Fishing Destination

Best Fishing Seasons

Spring (March-May), Summer (June-August), Fall (September-November)

Fishing License

purchase a license

Fishing Tips

Premier bluegill destination on the Chain. Dense weed growths make it a favorite for largemouth bass. Good crappie action through channels connecting to Channel Lake. Deep structure areas excellent for various species.

Fishing Regulations

Bass: 6 daily/14in min. Walleye: 4 daily/14-18in slot. Muskie: 1 daily/48in min. Northern Pike: 3 daily/24in min.

History & Features

Historical Information

Lake Catherine was formed by Wisconsin glacier melting thousands of years ago. It has always been closely connected to Channel Lake, appearing as one lake with two lobes from the surface.

Located two miles west of Antioch, it was part of the early European settlement area. Originally inhabited by Miami, Mascouten, and Potawatomi tribes.

The lake became part of the popular retreat destination for Chicagoans starting in the 1890s as railroad access opened the Chain O Lakes to tourism.

Notable Features

Sister Lake to Channel Lake – Directly connected and often considered one body of water with two lobes separated by an underwater ridge.

Underwater Ridge – Separates Lake Catherine from Channel Lake, creating unique underwater topography and fishing structure.

Dense Weed Growths – Signature feature making it a favorite for largemouth bass fishing.

Premier Bluegill Reputation – Known throughout the Chain as the top bluegill fishing destination.

Deepest Small Lake – At 45 feet average depth, one of the deepest relative to size in the entire Chain.

Safety Information

Deep lake with 45-foot average depth. Less crowded than larger lakes. Fox Waterway Agency sticker required.

Lake Gallery

Connected Lakes

Channel Lake

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