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 Carrollton. Right now in February, activity is Poor.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Smallmouth Bass
Chasing Smallmouth Bass near Carrollton, Illinois, means exploring the rocky stretches of the Illinois River and its tributaries. While not as renowned as some smallmouth destinations, the river offers pockets of excellent habitat. Focus on areas with current breaks, rock piles, and submerged timber. Spring and fall are ideal, with pre-spawn and post-spawn periods being particularly productive. The stretch of the Illinois River near Eldred, north of Carrollton, holds good smallmouth populations. A local tip: wading is possible in some areas during low water, allowing you to target specific structure. Smallmouth in this region tend to be aggressive, so try using crankbaits, tubes, and topwater lures. Remember to check water levels before heading out, as conditions can change rapidly. While not giants, the smallmouth here are scrappy fighters and provide a fun angling experience.
How to Catch Smallmouth Bass
Detailed fishing techniques coming soon for Smallmouth Bass in Carrollton.
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 are some good spots to catch smallmouth bass near Carrollton, IL?
Look for rocky areas and submerged structures in the Illinois River and its tributaries. Focus on areas with current breaks and deeper pools.
What's the daily limit for smallmouth bass in Illinois?
In Illinois, you can keep up to 6 smallmouth bass per day.
Is there a size restriction on smallmouth bass I can keep in Illinois?
Yes, you can only keep smallmouth bass that are 12 inches or longer.
Do I need a fishing license to target smallmouth bass in Illinois?
Yes, a valid Illinois fishing license is required to fish for smallmouth bass.
More Smallmouth Bass Fishing in Illinois
Other Species to Fish in Carrollton
Ready to Catch Smallmouth Bass in Carrollton?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.