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 New Athens. Right now in March, activity is Fair.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Smallmouth Bass
Smallmouth bass fishing near New Athens, Ohio, can be rewarding, especially in the area's larger reservoirs and rivers. The Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District (MWCD) lakes, such as Leesville Lake and Tappan Lake, are known to hold decent populations of smallmouth. Focus your efforts around rocky points, riprap, and submerged structure. These fish tend to be structure-oriented, so key in on areas where rocks meet deeper water. Spring and fall are excellent times to target smallmouth, as they become more active with the cooler water temperatures. During the summer, try fishing early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid the heat and crowds. Tube jigs, crankbaits, and spinnerbaits are all effective lures. A local tip is to focus on areas with current. The smallmouth here are often opportunistic feeders, so don't be afraid to experiment with different presentations. Be aware of boat traffic, especially on weekends, and always practice safe boating.
Plan a Trip to New Athens
See what's biting in New Athens, find top-rated guides, and estimate charter costs.
How to Catch Smallmouth Bass
Detailed fishing techniques coming soon for Smallmouth Bass in New Athens.
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 a good bait for smallmouth bass around New Athens?
Smallmouth bass in Ohio are known to strike at various lures and baits. Tube baits, crankbaits, and jerkbaits are popular choices. Live crayfish can also be incredibly effective.
Is there a size limit for smallmouth bass in Ohio?
Yes, the minimum size limit for smallmouth bass in Ohio is 12 inches. Any smallmouth bass you keep must be at least that length.
What time of year is best for smallmouth bass fishing near New Athens?
The pre-spawn and post-spawn periods in spring and early summer are excellent times to target smallmouth bass. Fall can also be productive as they feed heavily before winter.
How many smallmouth bass can I keep in a day in Ohio?
The daily bag limit for smallmouth bass in Ohio is 5, provided each fish is at least 12 inches long.
More Smallmouth Bass Fishing in Ohio
Other Species to Fish in New Athens
Ready to Catch Smallmouth Bass in New Athens?
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