Biologist Randy Sauer said Shoal Creek in Clinton and Bond counties is very good for channels throughout much of its length. "Habitat is plentiful in the form of deep pools with undercut banks, rootwads and brushpiles," he said. "The area around Pocahontas has yielded high numbers of fish in recent surveys. Channel cats are common from 1 to 3 pounds."

Access is limited to back-road bridges, and landowner permission may be necessary to conduct a float. But get into this creek and you'll catch many channel catfish. Numbers of big flatheads swim here, too. For more information, contact Region 4 Fisheries at (618) 462-1181.

The Little Wabash River through White and Gallatin counties, according to Jana Hirst, has an excellent population of channel and flathead catfish, a few big blues, too. Good access is available, and the river is generally navigable by motorboat. Launches are located below the dam in Carmi and in New Haven before the stream meets the Big Wabash. For more information, contact Region 5 Fisheries at (618) 435-8138.

If you're interested in getting in on some of our state's best catfishing and you enjoy floating rivers in a small boat or canoe, then be sure to visit a few of these destinations this summer. The catfishing is incredible, and it's likely that you won't have to share the water with many other anglers.

Before attempting to float your boat, check ahead for current river conditions and water levels, and do your homework. Consult an Illinois Atlas & Gazetteer by DeLorme Mapping before floating an unfamiliar stream. This book has improved maps of every road and bridge in our state, and is a vital tool for measuring distance and gauging the duration of your float. You can purchase one at most sporting good stores, or order online at www.delorme.com, or call (207) 846-7000. Another excellent publication no river enthusiast should be without is Paddling Illinois, by Mike Svob. The 2004 edition has information about each river in this article, including contact information, maps, river descriptions and camping areas. This can be purchased through Trail Media Group Inc. at 1-800-236-8088, or online at www.trailsbooks.com.