Fishing Charters in Illinois
Browse fishing charters in Illinois that can help you catch smallmouth bass.
Eyeronick Sport Fishing
Winthrop Harbor, Illinois
Xtreme Fun Charters
Chicago, Illinois
Unforgettable boat rentals in Chicago. Explore stunning shores, cruise the skyline, and create lasting memories. Book your boat rental adventure today!
Schools Out Sport Fishing
Waukegan, Illinois
Salmon and Trout fishing in the Chicagoland and Milwaukee region on Lake Michigan. Book today aboard School's Out Sport Fishing.
Dem Jigs
Streamwood, Illinois
Our hook collection features Mustad and Gamakatsu hooks trusted by anglers at every level—from weekend fishermen to tournament competitors. Built for strength, sharpness, and reliability, these hooks are designed to perform across nearly every fishing application. Whether you’re rigging soft plastics, flipping heavy co
Addiction Charters
Lindenhurst, Illinois
Chicago Lake Michigan Illinois charter fishing with Addiction Charters is the best King Salmon fishing around Chicago on Lake Michigan
Ness Charters
Winthrop Harbor, Illinois
River Valley Charter Service
Chillicothe, Illinois
River Valley Charter Service LLC, provides guided fishing charters on the Illinois River in Central Illinois for walleye, sauger, crappie, and white bass. We also offer river tours, for eagle watching and other wildlife viewing.
Prime Time Fishing
Waukegan Illinois salmon and trout fishing charter
Last Cast Ii
Lake Michigan Fishing, North Point Marina, Last Cast Charters, IIllinois Fishing, Trout, Salmon, Stealhead, Lake Trout, Coho, King Salmon, Brown Trout, Chicago Fishing, IL Fishing.
Double K Charters
Kingfin Charters
Lake Michigan Fishing Charters, Fishing Charters, Waukegan Fishing Charters, Lake Michigan
Shawnee Expeditions
Lake Kinkaid muskie musky walleye crappie bass fishing guide scott Donovan. Shawnee national forest fishing trip for walleye.
Best Time to Catch Smallmouth Bass
Smallmouth Bass can be caught year-round in Carbondale. Right now in February, activity is Slow.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Smallmouth Bass
Smallmouth bass in the Carbondale area offer a fun change of pace from largemouth. While not a trophy smallie destination, the region's clear lakes and rocky rivers hold some scrappy fish. The Big Muddy River and its tributaries offer wade-fishing opportunities for smaller smallmouth, while Kinkaid Lake is your best bet for larger specimens. Target rocky shorelines, submerged ledges, and current breaks with crankbaits, tubes, or Ned rigs. Spring and fall are peak seasons, as water temperatures moderate and smallmouth become more active. Local knowledge suggests focusing on the upper ends of Kinkaid Lake's coves where feeder creeks enter, as these areas often hold concentrations of baitfish. Be mindful of water clarity, as clear water demands finesse tactics and lighter line. Also, be sure to check water levels of the Big Muddy before wading; it can rise quickly after rainfall.
How to Catch Smallmouth Bass
Detailed fishing techniques coming soon for Smallmouth Bass in Carbondale.
Smallmouth Bass Fishing Regulations in Illinois
Open Season
Year-round
Daily Bag Limit
6 per day
Size Limit
12-inch minimum
License Required
Fishing License
In the Illinois River and its tributaries, there is no length limit.
⚠️ Always verify current regulations with the Illinois state wildlife agency before fishing.
Related Species in Illinois
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the bag limit for Smallmouth Bass in Illinois?
The daily bag limit for Smallmouth Bass in Illinois is 6 fish.
What size Smallmouth Bass can I keep in Illinois?
You can keep Smallmouth Bass that are 12 inches or longer in Illinois.
What are some good spots to catch Smallmouth Bass near Carbondale?
Look for rocky areas, submerged logs, and creek inlets in local lakes and rivers. These areas often hold Smallmouth Bass.
What bait should I use for Smallmouth Bass in the Carbondale area?
Crankbaits, tube baits, and small spinnerbaits are effective for catching Smallmouth Bass near Carbondale. Live bait like crawfish can also be productive.
More Smallmouth Bass Fishing in Illinois
Other Species to Fish in Carbondale
Ready to Catch Smallmouth Bass in Carbondale?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.