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 Lyons. Right now in March, activity is Good.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Smallmouth Bass
The Des Plaines River, flowing near Lyons, presents an excellent opportunity to target smallmouth bass. This river system offers a mix of rocky areas, current breaks, and submerged structure that smallies love. Focus your efforts around bridge pilings, rocky outcroppings, and any areas where the current is broken by fallen trees or debris. Late spring through early fall is the prime season, with pre-spawn and post-spawn periods being particularly productive. Wading is a popular tactic in some sections, allowing you to access prime fishing spots. Use lures like crankbaits, tubes, and spinnerbaits to cover water and locate active fish. A local tip: Pay close attention to water clarity; smallmouth prefer clearer water, so adjust your lure selection accordingly. Access points are available along the Des Plaines River Trail, offering ample opportunities to explore different stretches of the river.
Plan a Trip to Lyons
See what's biting in Lyons, find top-rated guides, and estimate charter costs.
How to Catch Smallmouth Bass
Detailed fishing techniques coming soon for Smallmouth Bass in Lyons.
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 a good lure for smallmouth bass around Lyons?
Smallmouth bass are known to strike at crankbaits, tubes, and topwater lures. Experiment with different retrieves to see what works best on a given day.
Is there a minimum size for smallmouth bass I can keep?
Yes, the minimum size limit for smallmouth bass in Illinois is 12 inches.
What's the daily limit for smallmouth bass in Illinois?
You can keep up to 6 smallmouth bass per day.
Can I fish for smallmouth bass all year in Illinois?
Yes, the season for smallmouth bass is open year-round in Illinois.
More Smallmouth Bass Fishing in Illinois
Other Species to Fish in Lyons
Ready to Catch Smallmouth Bass in Lyons?
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