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 Willard. Right now in February, activity is Poor.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Smallmouth Bass
Chasing smallmouth bass near Willard, Ohio, requires a bit of a drive, as the immediate area is better known for its agricultural lands than bronzeback habitat. Your best bet is heading towards the Sandusky River or the Huron River. These rivers, especially sections with rocky bottoms and deeper pools, hold decent populations of smallmouth. Spring and fall are prime times to target these feisty fighters, as they become more active with the cooler water temperatures. Focus your efforts around bridge pilings, submerged timber, and rocky outcroppings. A key tip is to check the water levels before you go; these rivers can fluctuate rapidly after heavy rains, making them difficult to fish. Also, consider using crayfish imitations or tube baits in natural colors to mimic the local forage. While you might not find trophy-sized smallmouth here, the rivers offer an enjoyable day of fishing in a relatively uncrowded setting.
How to Catch Smallmouth Bass
Detailed fishing techniques coming soon for Smallmouth Bass in Willard.
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 to use for smallmouth bass in Willard, Ohio?
Smallmouth bass in Willard respond well to various lures and live bait. Popular choices include crankbaits, spinnerbaits, tube jigs, and live crawfish. Experiment to see what they're biting on during your fishing trip.
What is the legal size limit for smallmouth bass I can keep in Ohio?
In Ohio, the minimum size limit for keeping smallmouth bass is 12 inches. Make sure to measure your catch carefully before keeping it.
Are there any restrictions on when I can fish for smallmouth bass near Willard?
No, the season for smallmouth bass is open year-round in Ohio. You can fish for them any time of the year, weather permitting.
What's the daily bag limit for smallmouth bass in Ohio?
The daily bag limit for smallmouth bass in Ohio is 5 fish per day. Be sure to adhere to this limit to help conserve the population.
More Smallmouth Bass Fishing in Ohio
Other Species to Fish in Willard
Ready to Catch Smallmouth Bass in Willard?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.