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 Toledo. Right now in February, activity is low.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Smallmouth Bass
Toledo, Ohio, might be better known for walleye, but the smallmouth bass fishing in Lake Erie's Western Basin is outstanding. These bronzebacks are aggressive and plentiful, providing anglers with exciting action. Rocky shorelines, reefs, and submerged structures are prime locations to target. The Detroit River, which flows into Lake Erie near Toledo, is another excellent spot. Spring and fall are the best times to fish for smallmouth, as they move shallow to spawn and feed. Tube baits, crankbaits, and drop-shot rigs are all effective techniques. When fishing around rocky areas, be sure to use abrasion-resistant line. A local tip: check out the area around the islands west of Toledo, like South Bass and Kelleys Island, for some truly exceptional smallmouth fishing. The smallmouth here are known for their size and fight!
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 time of year to fish for smallmouth bass near Toledo?
Smallmouth bass fishing is good throughout the year, but the pre-spawn and spawning periods in the spring are particularly productive. Fall can also be excellent as the fish feed heavily before winter.
What's the size and bag limit for smallmouth bass in Ohio?
The daily bag limit for smallmouth bass in Ohio is 5 fish. Each fish must be at least 12 inches long to be kept.
What are some productive lures for smallmouth bass in the Toledo area?
Tube baits, crankbaits, and spinnerbaits are all effective lures for catching smallmouth bass. Topwater lures can also be productive during the warmer months. Focus on rocky areas and submerged structures.
Do I need a fishing license to fish for smallmouth bass near Toledo, OH?
Yes, you need a valid Ohio fishing license to legally fish for smallmouth bass. The season is open year-round.
More Smallmouth Bass Fishing in Ohio
Other Species to Fish in Toledo
Ready to Catch Smallmouth Bass in Toledo?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.