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 Traverse City. Right now in February, activity is low.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Smallmouth Bass
Traverse City, MI, offers exceptional smallmouth bass fishing in Grand Traverse Bay and its surrounding waters. The clear, cool waters support a healthy population of these hard-fighting fish. Spring and early summer, when the bass are spawning or guarding fry, can be particularly exciting. Look for them in shallow, rocky areas near the shore. Later in the summer, they move to deeper water, relating to structure like humps and drop-offs. A local tip is to use polarized sunglasses to spot beds and structure. Also, pay attention to the mayfly hatches – smallmouth will often key in on these insects. Try imitating them with small nymphs or dry flies. Numerous public access points and boat launches are available around the bay, making it easy to get on the water. Be mindful of boat traffic, especially during peak season.
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 bait to use for smallmouth bass in Traverse City?
Popular choices include tube baits, crankbaits, and spinnerbaits. Local anglers also have success with live bait like crawfish and minnows, especially when targeting larger fish.
When is the best time to fish for smallmouth bass near Traverse City?
The smallmouth bass harvest season opens on the Saturday of Memorial Day weekend. While you can fish year-round, catch and release is required from January 1st until the Friday before Memorial Day.
What is the daily bag limit for smallmouth bass in Traverse City, MI?
You can keep up to 5 smallmouth bass per day during the harvest season, which begins on the Saturday of Memorial Day weekend.
Are there any size restrictions for smallmouth bass I can keep in Michigan?
No, there is no minimum size limit for smallmouth bass in Michigan.
More Smallmouth Bass Fishing in Michigan
Other Species to Fish in Traverse City
Ready to Catch Smallmouth Bass in Traverse City?
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