ILLINOIS CATFISH NOODLING
FRIDAY JULY 10TH - SUNDAY JULY 13TH, 2026
TOTAL COST: $1,000 | DEPOSIT: $250 (THIS IS NON-REFUNDABLE)
REGISTRATION OPENS: FRIDAY 03/06/2026
COORDINATOR: ALLISSA FLICK
Hand grabbing, hogging, noodling… Whatever you call it this is one of the most adrenaline filled freshwater adventures you can experience! SO COME WITH US! We are heading to Rend Lake for a weekend of learning the art of catching flathead catfish using nothing but your gloved hands, grit and determination.
This experience is raw, physical and incredibly rewarding. We will dive into the water, feel our way into holed up catfish habitat and bring massive fish to the surface using technique, strength and trust in the process. You will discover muscles you did not know you had, hold your breath longer than you thought possible and feel a level of accomplishment that is hard to match. After the moment is captured these incredible fish are released back into the lake.
Our experienced guides create a safe and beginner friendly environment where you will learn proper technique, safety awareness and how to respect both the fish and the water. No prior noodling experience is required. This trip is about pushing limits, building confidence and sharing an unforgettable experience alongside other adventurous women.
Trip Itinerary
Friday July 11
Arrive at the Airbnb in Benton Illinois around 5 PM. The house is located approximately ten minutes from the boat launch. We will carpool to dinner in town and spend the evening getting to know each other and settling into the weekend. After dinner enjoy downtime at the Airbnb to rest up and prepare for our first day on the water.
Saturday July 12
Meet our guides at the boat launch at 8 AM and begin noodling on Rend Lake. We will be in and out of the water throughout the day as we boat to predetermined hole locations. Expect an active hands on experience.
Please pack a cooler with snacks drinks and lunch for the day. Alcohol is allowed in moderation, however unsafe behavior will not be tolerated.
We will be on the water until approximately early to mid afternoon. After returning to the Airbnb we will clean up and head out for dinner. There are local boutiques, thrift shops, a coffee shop and even a tattoo shop just minutes away for anyone looking to explore.
Sunday July 13
We will repeat the same schedule with another full day of noodling beginning at 8 AM. Expect another day of sun water and adrenaline.
Once we wrap up in the afternoon we will return to the Airbnb to shower and grab one final dinner in town. Participants may either check out and head home or stay a third night to rest before traveling the next day.
Fishing License Requirement
All participants are required to have a valid Illinois freshwater fishing license. A three day non resident license is available for fifteen dollars and fifty cents and can be purchased online prior to arrival.
Airport and Travel
The nearest major airport is St Louis Lambert International Airport which is approximately a two hour drive from Benton Illinois. Another option is Evansville Regional Airport located about ninety minutes away. Rental cars are recommended. We encourage coordinating travel and carpooling within the private trip group when possible. Additional travel guidance and recommended arrival windows will be shared prior to the trip.
This is a small group Her Wilderness experience designed for women who are ready to try something bold physical and completely outside the box. No noodling experience required just an open mind a strong spirit and a willingness to get uncomfortable in the best way possible.
WHY HER WILDERNESS
Her Wilderness delivers professional, women-focused outdoor experiences that are organized, intentional, and built with care. Each trip provides flexible payment options, access to a private trip group, a pre-trip video call, and a comprehensive participation guidebook to ensure you arrive informed and confident. Each adventure is led by a Her Wilderness coordinator who supports you throughout planning, travel, and the experience itself.
Since 2019, Her Wilderness has been redefining outdoor adventure for women. Our mission is to provide growth-oriented outdoor opportunities, whether fishing, hunting, hiking, or travel, within a community that encourages strength, personal development, and connection. Our trips are designed for comfort, learning, and camaraderie, welcoming women of all backgrounds and experience levels into safe, supportive environments where confidence can thrive.
WHAT SETS US APART
Flexible payment plans
Private trip group for communication & connection
Pre-trip video call for preparation & introductions
Dedicated coordinator support before, during & after travel
Detailed guidebook sent well in advance
Women-only community built on respect & encouragement
Trusted outfitters, guides & lodging partners
Transparent pricing
Safety-driven planning & procedures
Expert gear + packing guidance
Strong culture of friendship & community
Alumni priority access to future trips
LODGING ACCOMMODATIONS
All lodging is thoughtfully selected to provide a comfortable, welcoming environment that encourages rest, connection, and community. Accommodations typically include shared bedrooms, shared bathrooms, and communal living spaces that allow guests to gather, socialize, and unwind. Please note that room and bed sharing may be required depending on the trip structure. Specific lodging information will be provided by your trip coordinator once your group is finalized, along with packing suggestions and expectations to ensure you feel fully prepared.
EXPECTATIONS + GROUP CULTURE
Outdoor travel requires flexibility. Weather conditions, guide recommendations, and environmental factors may lead to schedule adjustments, activity changes, or alternate species pursuits. These decisions are made with safety, conservation, and experience quality in mind. Her Wilderness maintains a strong, positive group culture. We are committed to a drama-free environment built on mutual respect, encouragement, and professionalism. Disruptive or disrespectful behavior toward participants, staff, or guides will not be tolerated and may result in removal from the trip without refund.
What You Can Expect:
Plans may shift due to weather or conditions
You may share lodging spaces
Remote locations may have limited amenities
No harvest or catch is guaranteed
We work diligently to deliver the best experience possible
What We Expect:
A respectful, flexible, collaborative attitude
Willingness to adapt when conditions require it
Commitment to a positive team environment
REGISTRATION & COMMUNICATION
All registrations are completed through the WeTravel platform, where you will receive confirmation and payment management support. After booking, your coordinator will contact you with next steps, access to your private trip group, and invitations to scheduled virtual meetings. To ensure communication is efficient and organized, coordinators will provide their preferred contact method and will not communicate through personal social media accounts. For general questions or assistance, please email questions@herwilderness.co. We can’t wait to adventure with you!
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