Kankakee County, IL – Families across the Kankakee area can take part in a free summer fishing program as the Reel Justice Fishing Club announces its 2026 season schedule, beginning Tuesday, May 20.
According to the Kankakee County State’s Attorney’s Office, the program is open to both kids and adults and will run select evenings from 5 to 7:30 p.m. at various locations throughout the county. Organizers say the initiative aims to provide a safe, engaging outdoor activity while teaching fishing skills and water safety.
The first event is scheduled for May 20 at Bird Park Quarry in Kankakee, followed by additional dates in St. Anne, Bourbonnais, Manteno, and Limestone through early August. Each session focuses on different fishing techniques, including live bait use, lure fishing, and species-specific targeting like bass and catfish.
Full 2026 Reel Justice Fishing Club Schedule (5:00–7:30 p.m.):
- May 20 – Bird Park Quarry (898 W. Station St., Kankakee) – Season opener (live baits)
- June 3 – St. Anne Ponds (north end of 2nd Ave., St. Anne) – Every species (live baits/lures)
- June 10 – Bourbonnais Municipal Pond – Cops ‘n Bobbers
- June 17 – Turnberry Ponds (Turnberry Subdivision, Bourbonnais) – Every species (lures, plastics)
- June 30 (12:00–3:00 p.m.) – Manteno Veterans Home – BBQ & fishing (veterans only)
- July 15 – Munjoy Ponds (1199 Cecil Dr., Limestone) – Every species (live baits/lures)
- July 29 – Heiland Lakes (6632 IL-17, St. Anne) – Bass, bluegill & catfish (lures, live baits)
- August 5 – Bird Park Quarry (Kankakee) – End-of-season celebration
Officials note that all equipment—including fishing poles, tackle, and bait—will be provided free of charge, making the program accessible to beginners and experienced anglers alike. Parents and guardians are encouraged to attend alongside participants.
One special session is planned for June 30 at the Manteno Veterans Home, which will include a barbecue and fishing event specifically for veterans.
The program is a partnership between the Kankakee County State’s Attorney’s Office and the Northern Illinois Anglers Association, with support from local sponsors.
Organizers encourage early participation, as sessions are expected to draw strong community interest throughout the summer months.
More information and registration details are available through the State’s Attorney’s Office website.
