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 Peoria. Right now in February, activity is low.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Smallmouth Bass
Central Illinois offers some surprisingly good smallmouth bass fishing, and Peoria is a great base to explore it. The Illinois River, with its backwaters and connected lakes, holds a healthy population of smallies that are often overlooked. Spring and fall are prime times, as the fish move into shallower water to feed before and after the summer heat. Focus your efforts around rocky points, submerged timber, and current breaks. A key to success is matching your presentation to the prevalent forage. Crawfish imitations and small swimbaits are often effective. For shore access, try the areas around Detweiller Park or the riverfront in downtown Peoria. Be aware that water levels can fluctuate significantly, impacting access and fishing conditions, so check the river gauge before you go.
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 minimum size smallmouth bass I can keep in Illinois?
The minimum size limit for smallmouth bass in Illinois is 12 inches.
What's the daily limit for smallmouth bass in the Peoria area?
You can keep up to 6 smallmouth bass per day in Illinois.
What are some good spots to fish for smallmouth bass near Peoria?
Try fishing the Illinois River for smallmouth bass around rocky areas and bridge pilings. Also, look for creek mouths and areas with good current.
Is a fishing license needed to fish for smallmouth bass in Illinois?
Yes, you need a valid Illinois fishing license to fish for smallmouth bass.
More Smallmouth Bass Fishing in Illinois
Other Species to Fish in Peoria
Ready to Catch Smallmouth Bass in Peoria?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.