February River Fishing in Illinois l First Fish of 2026

February river fishing in Illinois isn’t easy — icy banks, cold water, and slow bites made this day a grind from the start. I began the day on the Kankakee River throwing a handful of different lures while targeting multiple cold-water species. With unsafe ice along the banks, I made the call to move and try a different stretch of river to keep the day alive. After changing locations, experimenting with lures, and adjusting tactics, the first fish of 2026 finally came — and it didn’t come easy. As the day went on, I kept moving, tried a technique I heard was working under a bridge, and even let a bait soak while continuing to cast. The action stayed slow, but persistence paid off with a couple surprises before the day was done. 🎣 Winter river fishing is about adapting — and sometimes just being in the right place long enough. 👇 Comment below what lure or technique you trust most in cold water 👍 Like the video if you enjoy Midwest river fishing 🔔 Subscribe for more river and bank fishing adventures Swamp Bottom Baits Click on the link and enjoy a 9% discount on your next purchase of $22 or more. Make Sure to use Code NANER https://www.etsy.com/shop/SwampBottom...