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 Lorain. Right now in February, activity is low.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Smallmouth Bass
For smallmouth bass enthusiasts, Lorain, Ohio, offers opportunities in both Lake Erie and its tributaries. While the lake itself holds a healthy population, the rocky shorelines and nearshore structure are key. The Black River also provides excellent smallmouth habitat. Summer and early fall are ideal times to target these aggressive fish. Look for rocky points, docks, and submerged structure. Casting crankbaits, tubes, and spinnerbaits are effective techniques. A useful local tip is to fish during periods of low light, such as early morning or late evening, when smallmouth are more active. Focus on areas with current breaks or eddies in the river. Public access to the Black River is available at several parks, offering both bank fishing and launch points for smaller boats.
How to Catch Smallmouth Bass
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 best bait for Smallmouth Bass around Lorain?
Smallmouth Bass in Lake Erie are often caught using tubes, crankbaits, and spinnerbaits. In rivers, try using crayfish imitations or live bait like minnows.
What is the size and bag limit for Smallmouth Bass in Ohio?
The daily bag limit for Smallmouth Bass is 5 per day, and the minimum size limit is 12 inches.
Where can I find good Smallmouth Bass fishing spots near Lorain?
Look for Smallmouth Bass around rocky shorelines, docks, and submerged structures in Lake Erie. The rivers that feed into Lake Erie also hold Smallmouth Bass.
Is there a specific time of year that's best for Smallmouth Bass fishing in Lorain?
Smallmouth Bass fishing is typically good from late spring through early fall. The pre-spawn and post-spawn periods can be particularly productive.
More Smallmouth Bass Fishing in Ohio
Other Species to Fish in Lorain
Ready to Catch Smallmouth Bass in Lorain?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.