My only option so far is Golden Shiners. I have checked all the fish farms within 100 miles of home and the only forage fish I have been able to find is Golden Shiners. I would love to stock Threadfin Shad but they just arent available (to my knowledge) around here.

When should Golden Shiners be stocked? How many should be stocked in a 2 acre pond? Do I need any special habitat for Golden Shiners?

I also found out that it is illegal to stock Tilapia in any waters in IL. I e-mailed the IDNR and they said Tilapia are forbidden aside from aquariums.