Angler makes a stunning find in the Chicago River: an American Eel

There are dozens of aquatic species in the Chicago River, but for one angler fishing in River North, his catch was an unexpected surprise.

Angler makes a stunning find in the Chicago River: an American Eel. There are dozens of aquatic species in the Chicago River, but for one angler fishing in River North, his catch was an unexpected surprise. Ben Gorahschenko told NBC Chicago this week that as he was fishing on the night of May 4 in the Chicago River he reeled in something truly special: an American Eel. At first, he thought his catch was a snake, but a quick perusal of the internet revealed he had instead caught an eel. After snapping some photos of the eel, he and his compatriot threw it back so it could live to swim another day. According to Block Club Chicago, researchers have said the find is only the second documented eel to be found in the Chicago River, but wildlife experts say it’s indicative of the resurgence of aquatic life that has accompanied years-long cleanin...