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 Chardon. Right now in February, activity is Slow.
Seasonal Activity Chart

Smallmouth Bass
While Chardon, Ohio, is better known for its largemouth bass fishing, there are still opportunities to tangle with smallmouth bass in some of the area's cooler, clearer lakes and streams. These smallmouth aren't as abundant or large as those found in the Great Lakes, but they offer a challenging and rewarding fishing experience. Look for them in areas with rocky bottoms, current, and deeper water. Summer and fall are typically the best times to target smallmouth, as the water temperatures are more favorable. Small crankbaits, tubes, and Ned rigs are all effective lures. A practical tip for finding smallmouth in the Chardon area: focus on the outflow areas of lakes and ponds, where there is typically more current and oxygenated water. Also, many of the smaller streams in the area hold small populations of smallmouth, offering a more secluded and challenging fishing experience. Chardon's smallmouth bass are known for their feisty attitude, putting up a good fight even at smaller sizes.
How to Catch Smallmouth Bass
Detailed fishing techniques coming soon for Smallmouth Bass in Chardon.
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 is the best bait for smallmouth bass in Chardon, Ohio?
Smallmouth bass in this region respond well to various lures, including crankbaits, spinnerbaits, and tube jigs. Live bait like crawfish can also be very effective.
What size smallmouth bass can I keep in Ohio?
You can keep smallmouth bass that are 12 inches or longer. Double-check for any local exceptions.
What is the daily limit for smallmouth bass in Ohio?
You can keep up to 5 smallmouth bass per day in Ohio.
Can I fish for smallmouth bass all year in Ohio?
Yes, the season is open year-round for smallmouth bass in Ohio, allowing you to fish for them whenever you like.
More Smallmouth Bass Fishing in Ohio
Other Species to Fish in Chardon
Ready to Catch Smallmouth Bass in Chardon?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.


