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 Winthrop Harbor. Right now in February, activity is low.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Smallmouth Bass
For Smallmouth Bass enthusiasts, Winthrop Harbor and the surrounding Lake Michigan shoreline offer some exciting opportunities. These hard-fighting fish are drawn to the rocky structure and plentiful forage along the lake's edge. Focus your efforts on areas with rock piles, breakwalls, and submerged timber. Spring and fall are generally the best times to target smallmouth, as they move closer to shore to spawn and feed. Casting crankbaits, spinnerbaits, or jigs along the structure can be highly effective. A local tip is to use polarized sunglasses to spot submerged rocks and weed beds, which often hold bass. The Winthrop Harbor area provides good access to the lakefront, with several boat ramps and public fishing areas. Remember to use barbless hooks to minimize stress on the fish, especially if you plan to practice catch and release.
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 best bait to use for smallmouth bass in Winthrop Harbor?
Anglers in Winthrop Harbor often find success using crayfish imitations, tubes, and spinnerbaits for smallmouth bass. Live bait like nightcrawlers can also be effective.
Are there any size restrictions for smallmouth bass I catch in Winthrop Harbor?
Yes, in Illinois, you can only keep smallmouth bass that are 12 inches or longer. Make sure to measure your catch before keeping it, and release any that are shorter to help maintain a healthy population.
How many smallmouth bass can I keep per day in Winthrop Harbor?
The daily bag limit for smallmouth bass in Illinois is 6 fish per day. Be sure to adhere to this limit to ensure sustainable fishing practices.
Do I need a fishing license to target smallmouth bass in Winthrop Harbor?
Yes, a valid Illinois fishing license is required to fish for smallmouth bass in Winthrop Harbor. You can purchase a license online or at local retailers.
More Smallmouth Bass Fishing in Illinois
Other Species to Fish in Winthrop Harbor
Ready to Catch Smallmouth Bass in Winthrop Harbor?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.