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 Benton Harbor. Right now in February, activity is low.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Smallmouth Bass
Smallmouth Bass fishing around Benton Harbor offers excellent opportunities, especially in the St. Joseph River. The rocky structure and varied currents provide ideal habitat for these feisty fish. Focus your efforts in the warmer months, from late spring through early fall. Casting crankbaits, spinnerbaits, or jigs along rocky shorelines and near submerged structure is a proven tactic. Ned rigs and drop-shot rigs can also be highly effective when the fish are pressured. The area around the Berrien Springs Dam is a particularly productive spot, but be sure to check for any restricted areas. Access to the river is available at several parks and boat launches along its course. The smallmouth bass in the St. Joseph River are known for their aggressive strikes and powerful fights, making for an exciting angling experience. Don't be afraid to experiment with different lure retrieves to find what the fish are keying on.
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 are some productive lures for smallmouth bass around Benton Harbor?
Smallmouth bass in the Benton Harbor area are known to strike various lures. Effective choices include tube baits, crankbaits, spinnerbaits, and topwater lures. Match the lure to the water clarity and depth you're fishing.
When can I keep smallmouth bass in Benton Harbor?
Smallmouth bass fishing is open year-round. However, it is catch-and-release only from January 1 through the Friday before Memorial Day. Harvest is allowed starting Saturday of Memorial Day weekend.
What is the daily limit for smallmouth bass in Michigan, and is there a size restriction?
The daily bag limit for smallmouth bass is 5 per day. There is no size limit for smallmouth bass in Michigan.
Are there any specific regulations I should be aware of when targeting smallmouth bass in Benton Harbor?
Be aware of the catch-and-release season that runs from January 1 - Friday before Memorial Day. Outside of that, a standard Michigan fishing license is required.
More Smallmouth Bass Fishing in Michigan
Other Species to Fish in Benton Harbor
Ready to Catch Smallmouth Bass in Benton Harbor?
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