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 Chatsworth. Right now in February, activity is Fair.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Smallmouth Bass
Smallmouth bass fishing near Chatsworth, Illinois, requires some travel as there aren't any major smallmouth rivers immediately adjacent to town. The Vermilion River (both the North and Middle Forks) offer the best opportunities within a reasonable driving distance. Focus on rocky areas, riffles, and deeper pools. Summer and fall are generally the most productive times. Smallmouth are aggressive and respond well to a variety of lures, including crankbaits, spinnerbaits, and tubes. A crucial local tip is to be prepared for wading. Access to the best fishing spots often requires getting your feet wet. Also, pay attention to water levels; clear, flowing water is ideal. Smallmouth in these rivers aren't usually huge, but they're scrappy fighters. Be aware of private property boundaries along the rivers and always obtain permission before accessing the water.
How to Catch Smallmouth Bass
Detailed fishing techniques coming soon for Smallmouth Bass in Chatsworth.
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 minimum size for smallmouth bass I can keep in Illinois?
You can only keep smallmouth bass that are 12 inches or longer in Illinois.
How many smallmouth bass can I keep per day in Illinois?
The daily bag limit for smallmouth bass is 6 fish.
Is there a closed season for smallmouth bass near Chatsworth?
No, you can fish for smallmouth bass year-round in Illinois.
Do I need a fishing license to catch 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 Chatsworth
Ready to Catch Smallmouth Bass in Chatsworth?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.