I've been kayak fishing the Des Plaines in Illinois over the past few years near the Lemont area. I've found that summer has certainly been the best fishing, mostly on crank baits. Fall has produced some nice Pikes. Smallies have been topping out at about 16-18", Pikes mostly in the low 30" range. Also, Largemouth around the same size, but outnumbered by smallies 4-1. I've heard of some bigger Pike being caught, but has anyone had any luck with bigger Smallies? If so, which stretch of the river, which baits are working best? Or do smallies max out at that size in this river?  Thanks guys and happy fishing!

I would post that question on Windy City Fishing or the different Facebook Chicagoland groups.  This is a great site with people all across the country but your question is pretty specific to our area.  I don't fish the Dupage so I can't help you.  Good luck.