Fishing Charters in Illinois

Browse fishing charters in Illinois that can help you catch smallmouth bass.

Eyeronick Sport Fishing - Eyeronick Sport Fishing
Eyeronick Sport Fishing

Eyeronick Sport Fishing

Winthrop Harbor, Illinois

inshore
Winthrop Harbor, Illinois
Xtreme Fun Charters - Xtreme Fun Charters
Xtreme Fun Charters

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!

inshore
Chicago, Illinois
Schools Out Sport Fishing - Schools Out Sport Fishing
Schools Out Sport Fishing

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.

freshwaterSpeckled TroutSalmon
Waukegan, Illinois
Dem Jigs - Dem Jigs
Dem Jigs

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

inshore
Streamwood, Illinois
Addiction Charters - Addiction Charters
Addiction Charters

Addiction Charters

Lindenhurst, Illinois

Chicago Lake Michigan Illinois charter fishing with Addiction Charters is the best King Salmon fishing around Chicago on Lake Michigan

freshwaterSalmon
Lindenhurst, Illinois
Ness Charters - Ness Charters
Ness Charters

Ness Charters

Winthrop Harbor, Illinois

inshore
Winthrop Harbor, Illinois
River Valley Charter Service - River Valley Charter Service
River Valley Charter Service

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.

freshwaterSaugerWhite Bass
Chillicothe, Illinois
Prime Time Fishing - Prime Time Fishing
Prime Time Fishing

Prime Time Fishing

5(9)Top Rated

Waukegan Illinois salmon and trout fishing charter

freshwaterSpeckled TroutSalmon
Waukegan, Illinois
Last Cast Ii - Last Cast Ii
Last Cast Ii

Last Cast Ii

5(2)Top Rated

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.

freshwaterSpeckled TroutBrown Trout
Winthrop Harbor, Illinois
Double K Charters - Double K Charters
Double K Charters

Double K Charters

5(4)Top Rated
inshore
Waukegan, Illinois
Kingfin Charters - Kingfin Charters
Kingfin Charters

Kingfin Charters

5(12)Top Rated

Lake Michigan Fishing Charters, Fishing Charters, Waukegan Fishing Charters, Lake Michigan

freshwater
Waukegan, Illinois
Shawnee Expeditions - Shawnee Expeditions
Shawnee Expeditions

Shawnee Expeditions

5(4)Top Rated

Lake Kinkaid muskie musky walleye crappie bass fishing guide scott Donovan. Shawnee national forest fishing trip for walleye.

freshwaterLargemouth BassWalleye
Carbondale, Illinois

Best Time to Catch Smallmouth Bass

Smallmouth Bass can be caught year-round in Carthage. Right now in February, activity is Slow.

Book a Smallmouth Bass Charter

Seasonal Activity Chart

Smallmouth Bass

Smallmouth Bass

freshwater

While Carthage, Illinois, isn't necessarily a smallmouth bass mecca, determined anglers can find them in the La Moine River. This river offers a more intimate smallmouth fishing experience than larger waterways. Focus on rocky riffles, deeper pools, and areas with submerged structure. Spring and fall are the best times to target smallmouth, as they are more active in cooler water. Wading the La Moine River is a popular and effective way to fish for smallmouth, allowing you to access areas that boats can't reach. A local tip: be mindful of water levels, as heavy rains can make the river unfishable. Smallmouth in this region tend to be opportunistic feeders, so try using small crankbaits, tubes, and spinners. While you might not encounter trophy-sized fish, the smallmouth in the La Moine River are feisty and provide a rewarding angling experience.

How to Catch Smallmouth Bass

Detailed fishing techniques coming soon for Smallmouth Bass in Carthage.

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

Where can I find smallmouth bass fishing spots near Carthage, IL?

Try fishing the La Moine River, or nearby creeks and streams with rocky bottoms and clear water. Look for areas with riffles, pools, and submerged structure.

What's the minimum size for keeping smallmouth bass in Illinois?

The minimum size limit for smallmouth bass is 12 inches.

Are there any restrictions on when I can fish for smallmouth bass in Illinois?

No, the season for smallmouth bass is open year-round in Illinois.

What is the daily bag limit for smallmouth bass in Illinois?

You can keep up to 6 smallmouth bass per day.

More Smallmouth Bass Fishing in Illinois

Other Species to Fish in Carthage

Ready to Catch Smallmouth Bass in Carthage?

Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.