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 Evanston. Right now in February, activity is low.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Smallmouth Bass
Targeting smallmouth bass in the Evanston area of Lake Michigan presents a fantastic opportunity for anglers. The rocky shoreline and breakwalls provide ideal habitat for these hard-fighting fish. While smallmouth can be caught throughout the warmer months, the pre-spawn period in late spring and the early fall are particularly productive. Focus your efforts around rocky points and submerged structure. Natural presentations like tubes, drop-shot rigs, and crankbaits that mimic local forage fish are excellent choices. Remember to adjust your depth and retrieve based on water temperature and current. One key to success is finding areas with slightly warmer water temperatures, which often attract smallmouth. Public access is readily available along the Evanston lakefront, making it easy to explore different spots.
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 daily bag limit for smallmouth bass in Evanston, IL?
You are allowed to keep 6 smallmouth bass per day.
What is the minimum length requirement for smallmouth bass in Illinois?
The minimum length for a keeper smallmouth bass is 12 inches.
Are there any good spots to catch smallmouth bass near Evanston?
Look for rocky areas and structures along the shoreline. Fishing reports can offer more specific locations.
Do I need a fishing license to target smallmouth bass in Evanston?
Yes, you'll need a valid Illinois fishing license.
More Smallmouth Bass Fishing in Illinois
Other Species to Fish in Evanston
Ready to Catch Smallmouth Bass in Evanston?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.