Fishing Charters in Ohio
Browse fishing charters in Ohio that can help you catch smallmouth bass.
Circle Maker Charters
Port Clinton, Ohio
Lake Erie Charter boat, fishing for Lake Erie Walleye, Perch and Smallmouth Bass
Bad Influence Charters
Lakeside Marblehead, Ohio
Lake Erie charter fishing for walleye, perch and smallmouth bass at it's best. Captain Sam Livas was born and raised in Port Clinton. Fishing on Lake Erie is what Sam is all about, let him guide you to a great day on the waters of Lake Erie
Double D Guide Services
Double D Guide Service provides walleye and smallmouth bass fishing, lodging, duck hunting and ice fishing on Lake Erie
Erie Express Fishing Charters
Erie Express Charters - Walleye, Perch and Smallmouth Bass Fishing in the Western Basin of Lake Erie
Eyehooker Lake Erie Fishing Charters
A Fishing Charter is a Big Investment in your Time and Money. Spend it Wisely. Here's why EyeHooker should be your First Choice for a Lake Erie Fishing Charter. We target Walleye, Perch and Smallmouth Bass.
Lucky Strike - Lake Erie fishing charters
LUCKY STRIKE lake erie fishing charters ashtabula ohio walleye yellow perch steelhead trout smallmouth bass Geneva Conneaut
Hawg Hanger Charters & Lodging
Since 1977, Captain Mike McCroskey has been a Fishing Guide for Walleye, Perch, and Smallmouth Bass on Lake Erie, as well as a dedicated Goose Guide. We hope you will enjoy the photos of some of our trips below.
Fishin Again Charters
Lake Erie charter fishing in the Western and Central Basins for walleye, perch, and smallmouth bass with Captain Randy Lilly aboard Fishin Again Charters. Trips starting at $88 per person with lodging and $70 per person witout lodging.
Best Time to Catch Smallmouth Bass
Smallmouth Bass can be caught year-round in Avon Lake. Right now in February, activity is Fair.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Smallmouth Bass
Avon Lake's proximity to Lake Erie makes it a fantastic base for pursuing Smallmouth Bass. The rocky shoreline and nearshore reefs of Lake Erie provide excellent habitat. Spring and fall are peak seasons, with pre-spawn activity in the spring and aggressive feeding in the fall. Tube baits, drop-shot rigs, and crankbaits are all effective. Avon Lake itself has some access points, but heading east or west along the lakefront opens up more opportunities. Consider launching from marinas in nearby cities like Rocky River or Vermilion. The smallmouth in Lake Erie are known for their size and fight, often exceeding 5 pounds. A local tip: pay attention to wind direction and fish the leeward side of structures, as smallmouth often congregate there to avoid strong currents. Also, polarized sunglasses are essential for spotting submerged rocks and weed beds where smallmouth lie in wait.
How to Catch Smallmouth Bass
Detailed fishing techniques coming soon for Smallmouth Bass in Avon Lake.
Smallmouth Bass Fishing Regulations in Ohio
Open Season
Year-round
Daily Bag Limit
5 per day
Size Limit
12-inch minimum
License Required
Fishing license
Applies to combined total of largemouth, smallmouth, and spotted bass. Some areas may have specific regulations.
⚠️ Always verify current regulations with the Ohio state wildlife agency before fishing.
Related Species in Ohio
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the size limit for Smallmouth Bass in Ohio?
The minimum size limit for Smallmouth Bass in Ohio is 12 inches.
What's the daily limit for Smallmouth Bass I can keep?
The daily bag limit is 5 Smallmouth Bass.
What are some good spots to catch Smallmouth Bass near Avon Lake?
Rocky areas and structures in Lake Erie near Avon Lake are known to hold Smallmouth Bass. The Black River is also a popular spot.
What kind of bait works best for Smallmouth Bass around Avon Lake?
Smallmouth Bass in this area respond well to various lures, including tubes, crankbaits, and spinnerbaits. Live bait like crayfish can also be effective.
More Smallmouth Bass Fishing in Ohio
Other Species to Fish in Avon Lake
Ready to Catch Smallmouth Bass in Avon Lake?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.