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 Mettawa. Right now in March, activity is Good.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Smallmouth Bass
Smallmouth bass fishing near Mettawa, Illinois, requires a bit of a drive, but the rewards can be worth it. While not abundant in the immediate vicinity, the Kankakee River, southwest of Mettawa, is renowned for its smallmouth bass population. The rocky bottom and clear water of the Kankakee provide ideal habitat. Focus your efforts on areas with current, such as riffles, runs, and rocky points. Summer and fall are prime times for smallmouth on the Kankakee. Topwater lures, crankbaits, and jigs are all effective. Wading is a popular way to fish the Kankakee, but be sure to wear appropriate footwear as the rocks can be slippery. A local access point is the Kankakee River State Park, which offers ample shoreline access and boat ramps. The smallmouth in the Kankakee River are known for their aggressive strikes and hard fighting ability. Expect to catch a good number of fish, with the potential for some trophy-sized smallies. This river system offers a true smallmouth bass fishing experience.
Plan a Trip to Mettawa
See what's biting in Mettawa, find top-rated guides, and estimate charter costs.
How to Catch Smallmouth Bass
Detailed fishing techniques coming soon for Smallmouth Bass in Mettawa.
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?
In Illinois, the minimum size limit for Smallmouth Bass is 12 inches.
What's the daily bag limit for Smallmouth Bass in Mettawa, IL?
You can keep up to 6 Smallmouth Bass per day in Mettawa, Illinois.
Can I fish for Smallmouth Bass all year in Illinois?
Yes, the season for Smallmouth Bass is open year-round in Illinois.
What are some good lures for catching Smallmouth Bass near Mettawa?
Smallmouth Bass are known to strike crankbaits, spinnerbaits, and tube jigs. Experiment with different retrieves and colors to see what works best.
More Smallmouth Bass Fishing in Illinois
Other Species to Fish in Mettawa
Ready to Catch Smallmouth Bass in Mettawa?
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