Although the name Snakeden Hollow State Fish and Wildlife Area is rather intimidating, there are no more snakes here than in other areas of the state. Actually the site is the namesake of a small creek that “snakes” its way through the property.
 
This 2,500-acre parcel was a surface mining site for coal from 1962 to 1970 and was considered by many to provide a wealth of opportunity for the development of fish and wildlife habitat. In 1987, the State of Illinois purchased the property from Midland Coal Company and began working with the Soil Conservation Service to mitigate any environmental concerns at the location. Today, Snakeden Hollow is truly a wildlife paradise.

Activities

Fishing
Anglers will not be disappointed with Snakeden Hollow. With more than 300 acres of lakes and ponds, ranging in size from 0.4 to 160 acres, there is something for everyone. More than 3 dozen of the lakes and ponds are actively managed for their fishery.
 
Fish species found include largemouth and smallmouth bass, bluegill, redear sunfish, walleye, muskie, green sunfish, black crappie, channel catfish and bullhead. Fish creel and size limits are posted at each parking lot.

Boating
Boats are restricted to a 10 HP Limit on the entire 160-acre Snakeden Hollow Lake. This is a “NO WAKE AREA.” Only electric motors are allowed on all other lakes and ponds. Each year, from two weeks before through the close of the central zone goose season, the area is closed to all activity, with the exception of permit hunting.
 
Hunting
Teal hunting is offered here during the statewide season. Dove hunting is allowed through Sept. 30, at which time the site closes to establish a waterfowl refuge. Goose hunting by permit commences at the opening of the central Illinois quota zone goose season. Archery deer ise available by permit only and are subject to various site-specific restrictions. Upland game is available by free permit at the Victoria Pheasant Habitat Area.