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 Chicago. Right now in February, activity is low.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Smallmouth Bass
The Chicago shoreline of Lake Michigan offers surprisingly good smallmouth bass fishing. Focus your efforts around rocky structures, breakwalls, and harbors. Montrose Harbor, Burnham Harbor, and Navy Pier are popular access points. The best time is typically late spring through early fall, when the water warms up and the smallmouth become more active. Look for them in depths of 5 to 20 feet. Tube baits, crankbaits, and jerkbaits are all effective lures. Pay attention to water clarity; if the water is clear, use natural-colored lures. If the water is stained, use brighter colors. A key tip is to fish early or late in the day to avoid boat traffic and maximize your chances of hooking up. Also, be prepared for changing weather conditions on the lake.
How to Catch Smallmouth Bass
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's the best way to target smallmouth bass around Chicago?
Try using crankbaits, jigs, or tubes near rocky areas and structures. Smallmouth in Chicago are known to hold around breakwalls and submerged timber.
Are there size and quantity limits for smallmouth bass in Illinois?
Yes, you can keep up to 6 smallmouth bass per day, but each one must be at least 12 inches long.
Is it legal to fish for smallmouth bass throughout the year in Chicago?
Yes, the smallmouth bass season is open year-round in Illinois, so you can fish for them any time.
Do I need a fishing license to catch smallmouth bass in Chicago?
Yes, a valid Illinois fishing license is required to legally fish for smallmouth bass and all other species in Chicago's waters.
More Smallmouth Bass Fishing in Illinois
Other Species to Fish in Chicago
Ready to Catch Smallmouth Bass in Chicago?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.