Barto Boat Landing

Barto Boat Landing in Spring Valley is situated on the Illinois River. It offers a deep lagoon for launching from the ramps and is the only calm-water public access to the Illinois River for forty miles.

For more than 20 years it has been the first stop on the Cabela's MWC Tournament Schedule, the biggest Walleye competition in the state, drawing fishermen from all over the United States. ESPN reporters covering the tournament dubbed our stretch of the river the "Sauger Capital of the World".

In addition to the MWC several other fishing tournaments are held here annually. The landing also offers excellent boating, fishing and watersport opportunities.

Walleye Conservation Fund Donation

Barto Boat landing lies on the northwest side of the Spring Valley bridge, adjacent to Route 89 . The Illinois River is also home to many recreational advantages and is enjoyed by area visitors and Spring Valley Citizens alike.