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 Waukegan. Right now in February, activity is low.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Smallmouth Bass
Targeting Smallmouth Bass near Waukegan, Illinois, means heading to Lake Michigan. The rocky structure along the shoreline and around harbors provides excellent habitat for these hard-fighting fish. Look for Smallmouth around breakwalls, piers, and submerged rock piles. The best time to fish for Smallmouth is during the pre-spawn (late spring) and post-spawn (early summer) periods when they are actively feeding. Drop-shot rigs, tube baits, and crankbaits are all effective lures. Polarized sunglasses are essential for spotting Smallmouth in the clear water. A practical tip: focus on areas with current breaks, as Smallmouth often hold in these spots to ambush prey. The Smallmouth in Lake Michigan are known for their size and aggressive behavior. Be mindful of boat traffic and weather conditions, as Lake Michigan can be unpredictable. Check local fishing reports for the most up-to-date information on Smallmouth activity.
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 a good lure for smallmouth bass in Waukegan?
Popular lures for smallmouth bass in Waukegan include tube baits, crankbaits, and spinnerbaits. Look for rocky areas and drop-offs where smallmouth bass tend to congregate.
What size smallmouth bass can I keep in Illinois?
In Illinois, the minimum size limit for smallmouth bass is 12 inches. You can keep up to 6 smallmouth bass per day.
Are there any good shore fishing spots for smallmouth bass around Waukegan?
Yes, the Waukegan Harbor and surrounding areas offer several shore fishing opportunities for smallmouth bass. Look for areas with rocky structure and access to deeper water.
Is smallmouth bass fishing open year-round in Waukegan?
Yes, the season for smallmouth bass is open year-round in Illinois. Be sure to have a valid fishing license.
More Smallmouth Bass Fishing in Illinois
Other Species to Fish in Waukegan
Ready to Catch Smallmouth Bass in Waukegan?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.