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Illinois · Unknown Co.

Illinois River

· 273 mi · Class
Optimal: 8200–24500 CFS · USGS #05568500
16,300 avg
13,800CFS
6.14 ft gauge height
Optimal
Rising slowly (+100 cfs/hr)(+2,600 in 3h)
Flow data is live from USGS·Rapid classifications and CFS ranges need community verification·Know this river?
Avg flow: 16,300 cfsHist. median: 0 cfsUSGS #05568500
State

About

At 16,300 CFS average flow, the Illinois River moves substantial water through 273 miles of corridor. Optimal conditions run from 8,200 to 24,500 CFS according to gauge 05568500. The river carries a state designation as an Illinois Fishing River, indicating managed angling opportunities along its length.

Solunar Fishing Activity
🌒
Waxing Crescent
15% illumination
Poor
Moon overhead
9:29 AM
Moonrise
1:59 PM
Moonset
5:00 AM
Moon underfoot
9:29 PM
Next full moon: May 3111 days
10-Year Flow Patterns
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Your Optimal Range
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Data Quality

River conditions are community-verified. CFS ranges, difficulty ratings, and access points may not reflect every flow level or seasonal change. Always check current conditions, scout unfamiliar rapids, and paddle within your skill level.

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