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 Montpelier. Right now in March, activity is Good.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Smallmouth Bass
If you're targeting smallmouth bass near Montpelier, Ohio, you'll want to focus on the St. Joseph River and its tributaries. This area offers classic smallmouth habitat: rocky bottoms, riffles, and deeper pools. The St. Joe isn't a massive river, making it perfect for wading and bank fishing. Summer and early fall are prime times, as the water warms and the smallies become more active, aggressively striking topwater lures and crankbaits. For access, check out the public access points along County Road 5 and near Pioneer, Ohio. Be aware that water levels can fluctuate rapidly after rainfall, so check the river gauge before you head out. The smallmouth in this region aren't giants, but they are plentiful and feisty, offering a fun day of fishing for anglers of all skill levels. A local tip: focus on areas with current breaks created by submerged logs or boulders; these spots often hold multiple fish.
Plan a Trip to Montpelier
See what's biting in Montpelier, find top-rated guides, and estimate charter costs.
How to Catch Smallmouth Bass
Detailed fishing techniques coming soon for Smallmouth Bass in Montpelier.
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 size Smallmouth Bass can I keep in Ohio?
The minimum size limit for Smallmouth Bass in Ohio is 12 inches. Any fish smaller than that must be released unharmed.
What's the daily limit for Smallmouth Bass in Ohio?
You can keep up to 5 Smallmouth Bass per day in Ohio, as long as they meet the minimum size requirement of 12 inches.
What are some productive lures for Smallmouth Bass near Montpelier, OH?
Smallmouth Bass are aggressive and will hit a variety of lures. Try tubes, crankbaits, and spinnerbaits, especially around rocky areas and current.
Is a fishing license required to fish for Smallmouth Bass in Montpelier, Ohio?
Yes, you'll need a valid Ohio fishing license to legally fish for Smallmouth Bass in any public waters around Montpelier.
More Smallmouth Bass Fishing in Ohio
Other Species to Fish in Montpelier
Ready to Catch Smallmouth Bass in Montpelier?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.