Fishing Charters in Wisconsin
Browse fishing charters in Wisconsin that can help you catch smallmouth bass.


Bigelows Bronzeback Guide Service
Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin
Experience the best smallmouth bass fishing in Door County, Wisconsin with Jacob Bigelow Fishing and Bronzeback Guide Service. Book a fishing trip of a lifetime or explore Jacob's Bassmaster Tournament career.


Ladies First Guide Service
Green Bay, Wisconsin
Ladies First Guide Service LLC is a fishing guide service by a woman, specifically for women, on Green Bay and the Fox River. Green Bay is known as a world-class fishery for walleye, smallmouth bass, and musky. Limits of eater-sized walleyes and trophy fish can be found throughout the bay, providing some of the best fishing in the Midwest!


Fontinalis Fly Fishing
Fontinalis Fly Fishing is a fly fishing guide service operating out of Bayfield, Wisconsin offering guided fly fishing trips for steelhead, trout, coho, smallmouth bass, and musky across the Northwoods of Wisconsin. Whether you are a season fisherman or a beginner we will customize the perfect trip for you.


Up North Guide Service
Chequamegon bay is one the top rated Smallmouth Bass fisheries in the world and is where I spend my summer months.The average Smallie on Chequamegon Bay is 18


Bobber Down Guide Service
Contact Bobber Down Guide Fishing Service Mercer, WI Turtle Flambeau, WI Walleye Smallmouth Bass


Walleye Madness Guide Service
Green Bay’s top fishing guide service for Trophy Walleye and Smallmouth Bass. Call Walleye Madness Guide Service today to book your trip! (906) 290-2939


Lazy River Guide Service
Spend the day with Captain Mario on the Mighty Mississippi River fishing for walleye, sauger, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, catfish, northern pike, bluegill, perch, and crappies. Lazy River Guide Service brings you year-round fishing on open water or on the ice in the LaCrosse, Wisconsin area.


Cast N Catch Charters LLC
Cast N Catch Charters provides Door County Smallmouth Bass fishing guide trips. Guided Smallmouth Bass Trips on Sturgeon Bay, Lake Michigan, Green Bay, and Washington Island, WI. Open Year Round - Providing Door County ice fishing.


Wacky Walleye Guide Service
Green Bay & Door County Fishing Guide Service for Walleye, Smallmouth Bass, Musky, Whitefish and Pike. Door County ice fishing or open water fishing. 25 Years of guiding experience. Ice shack and shanty rentals in Door County.
Best Time to Catch Smallmouth Bass
Smallmouth Bass can be caught year-round in Milwaukee. Right now in February, activity is low.
Seasonal Activity Chart

Smallmouth Bass
Milwaukee offers some excellent smallmouth bass fishing opportunities, particularly in Lake Michigan and the Milwaukee River. These feisty fish thrive in the rocky nearshore areas and around structures like piers and breakwalls. Spring and fall are peak seasons, as smallmouth move into shallower water to spawn or feed heavily before winter. Look for areas with current or rocky bottoms, as these tend to hold more fish. A practical tip for Milwaukee smallies: focus on areas near the Summerfest grounds. Another good bet is Bradford Beach. Live bait, such as crawfish or minnows, can be highly effective, but artificial lures like crankbaits, spinnerbaits, and tube jigs also produce well. Milwaukee smallmouth are known for their aggressive strikes and powerful runs, so be prepared for a thrilling fight. Remember to practice catch and release to help maintain the quality of this fishery.
How to Catch Smallmouth Bass
Smallmouth Bass Fishing Regulations in Wisconsin
Open Season
May 4, 2024 - March 2, 2025 for catch and release only. Harvest season opens June 15, 2024.
Daily Bag Limit
5 per day
Size Limit
14-inch minimum
License Required
Freshwater fishing license
Some waters may have special regulations; consult the Wisconsin DNR regulations pamphlet.
⚠️ Always verify current regulations with the Wisconsin state wildlife agency before fishing.
Related Species in Wisconsin
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the regulations for smallmouth bass in Wisconsin?
The harvest season opens June 15, 2024, with a daily bag limit of 5. There is a 14-inch minimum size limit. From May 4, 2024 - June 14, 2024, it is catch and release only.
Do I need a license to fish for smallmouth bass in Milwaukee?
Yes, you need a valid Wisconsin fishing license to fish for smallmouth bass. Make sure you have it with you while fishing.
What's the best bait for smallmouth bass in the Milwaukee area?
Popular baits for smallmouth bass include crankbaits, spinnerbaits, jigs, and live bait such as crawfish and minnows. Experiment to see what the fish are biting on.
When is the best time of year to fish for smallmouth bass near Milwaukee?
Smallmouth bass fishing is best during the warmer months, from late spring through fall. They are more active when the water temperatures are favorable.
More Smallmouth Bass Fishing in Wisconsin
Other Species to Fish in Milwaukee
Ready to Catch Smallmouth Bass in Milwaukee?
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