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Dolan Lake

Hamilton County, Illinois
75 acres Max depth 18 ft
Bluegill Channel Catfish Largemouth Bass
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About Dolan Lake

Dolan Lake is a welcoming destination in Hamilton County, Illinois, where anglers and outdoor enthusiasts find a peaceful retreat. This modestly sized lake spans about 75 acres, offering ample space to enjoy the water without feeling crowded. Its shallow nature, with depths reaching up to 18 feet, makes it accessible and productive for a variety of water activities throughout the year. The lake is surrounded by small towns like Enfield, Norris City, and McLeansboro, providing a quiet countryside atmosphere. Nearby, the Hamilton County State Fish and Wildlife Area and Hamilton State Park add to the natural context, framing Dolan Lake within a broader landscape of outdoor opportunities.

Fishing Dolan Lake

Variety defines the fishing experience at Dolan Lake, where anglers can pursue several popular species. Bluegill, channel catfish, and largemouth bass populate the waters, each offering distinct challenges and rewards. The lake's shallow depth encourages active fish behavior, making it a lively spot for those seeking a satisfying catch. Fishing here suits anglers who appreciate a mix of species in a relaxed setting. Whether casting for bass or trying your luck with catfish, the lake's environment supports diverse fishing styles and preferences.

Ice Fishing on Dolan Lake

Bluegill, channel catfish, and largemouth bass continue to be the stars during the colder months when Dolan Lake freezes over. Ice fishing enthusiasts can enjoy the unique seasonal experience on this shallow lake, where fish remain accessible beneath the ice. The lake’s frozen surface offers a quiet and focused environment for winter anglers to connect with these species in a different way.

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FISHINGOVERVIEW Variety defines the fishing experience at Dolan Lake, where anglers can pursue several popular species. Bluegill, channel catfish, and largemouth bass populate the waters, each offering distinct challenges and rewards. The lake's shallow depth encourages active fish behavior, making it a lively spot for those seeking a satisfying catch. Fishing here suits anglers who appreciate a mix of species in a relaxed setting. Whether casting for bass or trying your luck with catfish, the lake's environment supports diverse fishing styles and preferences.
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ICEFISHINGOVERVIEW Bluegill, channel catfish, and largemouth bass continue to be the stars during the colder months when Dolan Lake freezes over. Ice fishing enthusiasts can enjoy the unique seasonal experience on this shallow lake, where fish remain accessible beneath the ice. The lake’s frozen surface offers a quiet and focused environment for winter anglers to connect with these species in a different way.
INTACRES 75.00
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LAKEID 17981
LAKENAME Dolan Lake
LAKEOVERVIEW Dolan Lake is a welcoming destination in Hamilton County, Illinois, where anglers and outdoor enthusiasts find a peaceful retreat. This modestly sized lake spans about 75 acres, offering ample space to enjoy the water without feeling crowded. Its shallow nature, with depths reaching up to 18 feet, makes it accessible and productive for a variety of water activities throughout the year. The lake is surrounded by small towns like Enfield, Norris City, and McLeansboro, providing a quiet countryside atmosphere. Nearby, the Hamilton County State Fish and Wildlife Area and Hamilton State Park add to the natural context, framing Dolan Lake within a broader landscape of outdoor opportunities.
LAKE_SCORE 26.66
LASTGENERATED 2026-05-06 01:14:26.113
LAT 38.06090
LON -88.40311
METADESCRIPTION Explore Dolan Lake in Hamilton County, Illinois, a shallow 75-acre lake known for bass, catfish, and bluegill fishing year-round.
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