Fishing Charters in Michigan
Browse fishing charters in Michigan that can help you catch smallmouth bass.


Art of Fishing Guide Service-Smallmouth Bass Charter Lake St. Clair
Art of Fishing Guide Service is owned and operated by Art Ferguson. Art has more than 30 years of smallmouth bass guide experience. Book Today!


Into The Wild Fly Fishing Guide Service
Into the Wild Fly Fishing the Upper Peninsula's Best Guide Service | Brook Trout, Steelhead, Brown Trout, Smallmouth Bass, Salmon
Best Time to Catch Smallmouth Bass
Smallmouth Bass can be caught year-round in Bay City. Right now in February, activity is low.
Seasonal Activity Chart

Smallmouth Bass
Smallmouth Bass fishing near Bay City is often overlooked, but Saginaw Bay and the Saginaw River hold some quality fish. Focus your efforts around rocky structures, docks, and weed beds within the bay and along the riverbanks. Spring and fall are excellent times to target Smallmouth, as they become more active in cooler water temperatures. Throwing crankbaits, tube baits, or drop-shot rigs can be effective. Consider exploring the Tittabawassee River, a tributary of the Saginaw, for additional Smallmouth opportunities. Public access is available at various parks and boat launches along the river. Keep an eye out for baitfish activity, as Smallmouth will often be nearby. Remember to practice catch and release to help maintain the Smallmouth population.
How to Catch Smallmouth Bass
Smallmouth Bass Fishing Regulations in Michigan
Open Season
Year-round, catch-and-release only from January 1 - Friday before Memorial Day. Harvest allowed starting Saturday of Memorial Day weekend.
Daily Bag Limit
5 per day
Size Limit
No size limit
License Required
Resident or Non-resident Fishing License
Check the Michigan Fishing Guide for exceptions on specific bodies of water.
⚠️ Always verify current regulations with the Michigan state wildlife agency before fishing.
Related Species in Michigan
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best time of year to target smallmouth bass in Bay City, MI?
You can fish for smallmouth bass year-round in Bay City, but harvest is only allowed starting the Saturday of Memorial Day weekend. From January 1st until then, it's catch and release only.
What are the regulations for keeping smallmouth bass in Michigan?
If you're fishing in Michigan after the Saturday of Memorial Day weekend, you can keep up to 5 smallmouth bass per day. There is no minimum size limit.
Do I need a fishing license to fish for Smallmouth Bass in Bay City, Michigan?
Yes, you need either a resident or non-resident Michigan fishing license to fish for smallmouth bass in Bay City.
Where are some good places to catch smallmouth bass near Bay City?
The Saginaw River and Saginaw Bay are popular spots for smallmouth bass fishing near Bay City. Look for rocky areas and structures that hold fish.
More Smallmouth Bass Fishing in Michigan
Other Species to Fish in Bay City
Ready to Catch Smallmouth Bass in Bay City?
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