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 Port Sanilac. Right now in May, activity is high.
Seasonal Activity Chart

Smallmouth Bass
For smallmouth bass enthusiasts, the waters near Port Sanilac provide ample opportunities. Lake Huron's rocky structure and nearshore areas are ideal habitat. Spring and early summer, during the pre-spawn and spawn, are particularly productive. Look for smallmouth around docks, break walls, and rocky points. Using natural presentations like crayfish imitations or drop-shot rigs can be very effective. The clearer waters here often require lighter line and longer casts. Access to the lake is readily available through the public launch in Port Sanilac. A local tip is to fish early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid boat traffic and capitalize on low-light conditions, when smallmouth are most active. The smallmouth population here is known for its aggressive strikes and hard-fighting nature, making for an exciting angling experience.
Plan a Trip to Port Sanilac
See what's biting in Port Sanilac, find top-rated guides, and estimate charter costs.
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 the best lures for Smallmouth Bass near Port Sanilac?
Popular lures for Smallmouth Bass include tube baits, crankbaits, spinnerbaits, and topwater lures. Experiment to see what the fish are responding to on any given day.
What is the bag limit for Smallmouth Bass near Port Sanilac?
The bag limit for Smallmouth Bass in Michigan is 5 per day. However, from January 1 until the Friday before Memorial Day weekend, it is catch-and-release only.
Is there a size limit for Smallmouth Bass in the Port Sanilac area?
There is no size limit for Smallmouth Bass in Michigan. You can keep any size as long as you are following bag limit regulations.
When does Smallmouth Bass harvest season open near Port Sanilac?
You can begin harvesting Smallmouth Bass on the Saturday of Memorial Day weekend. From January 1 until then, it is catch-and-release only.
More Smallmouth Bass Fishing in Michigan
Other Species to Fish in Port Sanilac
Ready to Catch Smallmouth Bass in Port Sanilac?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.


