CHICAGO — The summer fishing season in Chicago is off to an energetic start, as jumbo perch are once again being hauled from Lake Michigan, five different salmon and trout species were landed in a recent tournament, and local mulberry trees are bursting with fruit.
‘Jumbo Jimmy’ Makes a Big Splash at Burnham Harbor
Angler James Baczek, affectionately known as “Jumbo Jimmy,” kicked off the reopened perch season in dramatic fashion on Monday, June 16. Fishing late at night using soft shells deep at Burnham Harbor, Baczek managed to catch five jumbo perch.
The largest of the haul measured 16 inches long and weighed 1 pound, 14 ounces, making it one of the heftiest perch seen in recent memory—though still shy of the Illinois record, a 2-pound, 8.75-ounce yellow perch caught in 1974 at the old Arrowhead Club Lake in Will County by Joe Grega.
Baczek’s early success has set a high bar for anglers returning to the water this season.
Five-Species Win at the Zilian Salmon-Trout Tournament
Also generating buzz among the city’s fishing community is the Zilian Tournament, where Captain Jason Baldwin claimed victory by landing five different species of salmon and trout in a single outing. While specific species weren’t listed in the initial notes, anglers in the Chicago area typically pursue Chinook, Coho, lake trout, brown trout, and rainbow trout in Lake Michigan.
The feat underscores the variety and richness of fishing opportunities off the Chicago shoreline as water temperatures rise and summer patterns settle in.
Mulberry Season Adds to the Outdoor Bounty
Beyond the water, Chicago’s mulberry trees are now ripening across neighborhoods and parks, offering an edible treat to both locals and migrating birds. The seasonal ripening of mulberries is a welcome signal of summer, and many outdoor enthusiasts are taking advantage of the chance to forage or snack on the go during walks and fishing trips.
A Promising Season for Anglers and Nature Lovers
Between big catches like Baczek’s perch and the multi-species success seen at local tournaments, Chicago’s outdoor scene is thriving this summer. From harbors to tree-lined park trails, both seasoned anglers and weekend nature seekers are finding reason to celebrate.
As the city continues to recover from winter’s grip and heads deeper into summer, local waters and green spaces promise more stories to come.
What’s your favorite fishing spot or seasonal outdoor ritual in the Chicago area? Share your photos, stories, or tips in the comments on ChicagoSuburbanFamily.com!
