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 Merrionette Park. Right now in March, activity is Excellent.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Smallmouth Bass
If you're chasing smallmouth bass near Merrionette Park, Illinois, you'll want to focus your attention on the Des Plaines River and its connected waterways. This area offers a surprising urban fishery, with smallies holding in rocky sections, near bridge pilings, and along any submerged structure. Spring and fall are prime times, as the water temperatures are ideal and the fish are actively feeding. Look for pre-spawn activity in the spring as the water warms. A key tip is to access the river through local forest preserve access points, which often provide parking and trails leading to productive fishing spots. Be aware of water levels, as heavy rains can impact clarity and current. Local smallmouth tend to be scrappy fighters, often in the 1-3 pound range, but larger fish are certainly possible, especially in the deeper holes. Using crayfish imitations or small crankbaits bumped along the bottom can be deadly.
Plan a Trip to Merrionette Park
See what's biting in Merrionette Park, find top-rated guides, and estimate charter costs.
How to Catch Smallmouth Bass
Detailed fishing techniques coming soon for Smallmouth Bass in Merrionette Park.
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 smallmouth bass I can keep in Illinois?
The minimum size limit for smallmouth bass in Illinois is 12 inches.
How many smallmouth bass can I keep per day in Merrionette Park, IL?
You are allowed to keep up to 6 smallmouth bass per day.
Is a fishing license required to fish for smallmouth bass near Merrionette Park?
Yes, you need a valid Illinois fishing license to target smallmouth bass.
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 Merrionette Park
Ready to Catch Smallmouth Bass in Merrionette Park?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.