Episodes

  • Icy Angling on Lake Champlain: Winter Fishing Tips and Regulations

    Icy Angling on Lake Champlain: Winter Fishing Tips and Regulations
    Dec 1 2024
    As of December 1, 2024, the fishing scene on Lake Champlain is quite unique given the winter conditions. Here’s a local’s perspective on what you can expect:

    First, let's talk about the weather. Today, the temperature is around 32°F with a light breeze, and the sun rose at 6:54 AM, setting at 4:14 PM. Ice is starting to form on the edges and surface of the lake, especially in the shallower areas.

    Fish activity in the winter is more complex than previously thought. According to recent research, fish like yellow perch are active in early winter, feeding on lake trout eggs that were spawned in the fall temperature mixing period[2].

    Yesterday, anglers reported catching smallmouth bass, walleye, and northern pike. For smallmouth bass, the best techniques included using drop shot rigs and Texas rigs around docks and boulders. Walleye were caught using jigs and live bait in deeper waters[3].

    Given the cold water, the best lures to use are those that mimic the natural forage. For smallmouth bass, try using bladed jigs or hard jerkbaits. For walleye, a jig tipped with a minnow or a fathead can be very effective.

    Hot spots include the areas around Willsboro, where landlocked salmon runs are common in the spring and fall, but during winter, focus on the deeper sections of the lake. Another good spot is the northern part of the lake, particularly around the islands, where the structure can hold a variety of species.

    Remember to check the local fishing regulations, as there are specific rules for different species and times of the year. For example, black bass are catch-and-release only from December 1 to June 14, and walleye have a minimum length limit of 15 inches from May 1 to March 15[5].

    Stay warm and good luck on the water
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    2 mins
  • "Late Fall Fishing on Lake Champlain: Targeting Smallmouth Bass and Lake Trout"

    "Late Fall Fishing on Lake Champlain: Targeting Smallmouth Bass and Lake Trout"
    Nov 30 2024
    For November 30, 2024, the fishing scene on Lake Champlain is looking exceptionally promising, especially if you're targeting smallmouth bass. Here’s what you need to know for a successful day on the water.

    ### Weather and Conditions
    Today, expect a crisp late fall day with temperatures ranging from the mid-30s to mid-40s Fahrenheit. The skies will be partly cloudy, with a gentle breeze out of the northwest. Since Lake Champlain is a freshwater lake, tidal reports are not applicable, but water levels are currently stable.

    ### Sunrise and Sunset
    Sunrise is at 6:53 AM, and sunset will be at 4:14 PM, giving you a good window for both morning and afternoon fishing trips.

    ### Fish Activity
    Yesterday saw a lot of activity from smallmouth bass, which were the stars of the show. Many anglers reported catches in the 2-4 pound range, primarily in depths of 20-40 feet around structural areas like rock piles and drop-offs. Lake trout were also active, hitting on various lures in deeper waters, typically around 50-70 feet.

    ### Best Lures and Bait
    For smallmouth bass, try using jigs with curly tail trailers, crankbaits in shad or baitfish patterns, and soft plastics like Keitech swimbaits. For lake trout, inline silver and blue spinners, Keitech swimbaits, and blade baits were effective.

    ### Hot Spots
    - **The Palisades**: This area has been producing consistent results for smallmouth bass. Look for rocky structures and drop-offs.
    - **Valcour Island**: Known for its deep waters, this spot is ideal for targeting lake trout.
    - **The Inland Sea**: This area often sees a mix of both smallmouth bass and lake trout, especially around the numerous rock piles and weed beds.

    Overall, it's a great time to be out on Lake Champlain, with the cooler weather bringing the fish into more predictable patterns. Make sure to dress warmly and enjoy the beautiful late fall scenery while you're out on the water.
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    2 mins
  • Smallmouth Bass Thrive in Crisp Champlain Conditions Ideal for Late-Fall Fishing

    Smallmouth Bass Thrive in Crisp Champlain Conditions Ideal for Late-Fall Fishing
    Nov 29 2024
    As of November 29, 2024, the fishing scene on Lake Champlain is thriving, especially for those targeting smallmouth bass. Here’s a local’s perspective on what you can expect:

    The weather is crisp and chilly, with a high of around 45°F and a low of 35°F, making it ideal for a day on the water. Sunrise was at about 6:45 AM, and sunset is expected at around 4:15 PM. The sky is partly cloudy, adding to the pleasant fishing conditions.

    Since Lake Champlain is a freshwater lake, tidal influences are minimal, but water levels can fluctuate slightly due to wind and precipitation. Currently, the water temperature is in the mid-40s, which is typical for this late fall period.

    Fish activity has been robust, with smallmouth bass dominating the scene. Anglers reported good catches of smallmouth bass yesterday, particularly in areas with rocky structures and drop-offs. Some notable catches were in the 3- to 5-pound range. Largemouth bass are also present, though in smaller numbers. Other species like trout, walleye, and salmon are active as well, although they are less targeted by bass enthusiasts.

    For lures, smallmouth bass are biting well on soft plastics, especially those imitating baitfish or crawdads. Jigs and crankbaits are also effective, particularly when used around submerged rocks and weed beds. Forward-facing sonar has been a game-changer for many anglers, helping them locate schools of smallmouth quickly.

    If you're looking to target smallmouth, consider areas around the Champlain Bridge, where the lake's structure creates ideal habitats. The northern end of the lake, particularly around the towns of Ticonderoga and Crown Point, has also seen significant activity.

    Make sure to bundle up, as the late fall chill is definitely in the air, but the conditions are perfect for a memorable day on the water.
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    2 mins
  • "Smallmouth Dominate Lake Champlain's Late Fall Fishing Scene"

    "Smallmouth Dominate Lake Champlain's Late Fall Fishing Scene"
    Nov 28 2024
    For November 28, 2024, here’s a local’s perspective on the fishing scene at Lake Champlain:

    Today, November 28th, marks a crisp late fall day on Lake Champlain. The sunrise was at around 6:45 AM, and sunset is expected at about 4:15 PM. The weather is partly cloudy with a high of around 45°F and a low of 35°F, making it a chilly but ideal day for fishing.

    Tidal influences are minimal on Lake Champlain since it is a freshwater lake, but water levels can fluctuate slightly due to wind and precipitation. Currently, the water temperature is in the mid-40s, which is typical for this time of year.

    Fish activity has been robust, especially for smallmouth bass. Historically, this time of year sees smallmouth bass dominating the scene, and this year is no exception. Anglers have been reporting good catches of smallmouth bass, particularly in areas with rocky structures and drop-offs. Largemouth bass are also present, though in smaller numbers.

    Yesterday, anglers reported catching a mix of smallmouth and largemouth bass, with some notable catches in the 3- to 5-pound range. Other species like trout, walleye, and salmon are also active, though less targeted by bass enthusiasts.

    For lures, smallmouth bass are biting well on soft plastics, especially those imitating baitfish or crawdads. Jigs and crankbaits are also effective, especially when used around submerged rocks and weed beds. Forward-facing sonar has been a game-changer for many anglers, helping them locate schools of smallmouth quickly.

    Some hot spots include the areas around the Champlain Bridge, where the lake's structure creates ideal habitats for smallmouth. The northern end of the lake, particularly around the towns of Ticonderoga and Crown Point, has also seen significant activity.

    If you're looking to target smallmouth, consider using Bryan LaBelle's approach of targeting mixed bags, which often includes a combination of smallmouth and largemouth. For those who prefer sight-fishing, areas with clear water and visible beds can be very productive, especially for anglers like Adrian Avena and Ron Nelson who specialize in this technique.

    Overall, it's a great time to be on Lake Champlain, with plenty of fish to go around and the right conditions to make your day on the water memorable. Just make sure to bundle up, as the late fall chill is definitely in the air.
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    3 mins
  • Late Fall Fishing Bounty on Lake Champlain

    Late Fall Fishing Bounty on Lake Champlain
    Nov 24 2024
    As of November 24, 2024, the fishing scene on Lake Champlain is still thriving despite the late fall season. Here’s what you need to know for a successful day on the water.

    The weather is expected to be partly cloudy, with temperatures ranging from the mid-30s to mid-40s Fahrenheit. Winds will be moderate, around 10-15 mph, which is manageable for most anglers. Although tides are not as significant on a freshwater lake like Champlain, recent rainfall has caused a slight rise in water levels, which can influence fish behavior.

    Sunrise today is at around 6:45 AM, and sunset will be at approximately 4:15 PM. These transitional periods are crucial for planning your fishing trip, as many species are more active during these times.

    Yesterday saw a lot of activity from various species. Anglers reported catching a good number of northern pike, largemouth and smallmouth bass, and even some trophy lake trout. The northern pike were particularly active in the shallower areas, while bass were found in both shallow and deeper waters. Lake trout were caught in deeper waters.

    Several anglers reported catching multiple northern pike in the 20-30 inch range. Bass catches were also plentiful, with some largemouth bass reaching up to 5 pounds and smallmouth bass up to 4 pounds. Lake trout were landed in the 10-15 pound range.

    For northern pike, inline silver and blue spinners, as well as 4.3 Keitech swimbaits, were highly effective. Bass were hitting on blade baits and soft plastics. Lake trout were attracted to inline silver and blue spinners and blade baits.

    Some of the hot spots include the areas around the Palisades and the Slack Line, where the structure and drop-offs attract a variety of fish. Another good spot is the northern end of the lake, particularly around the Missisquoi Bay, where the mix of shallow and deep waters supports a diverse fish population.

    Make sure to dress warmly and be prepared for the changing weather conditions. It's shaping up to be a great day on Lake Champlain, with plenty of fish to be caught. Good luck out there
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    3 mins
  • Autumn Chill on Lake Champlain: Trout, Salmon, and Bass Biting in the Crisp Conditions

    Autumn Chill on Lake Champlain: Trout, Salmon, and Bass Biting in the Crisp Conditions
    Nov 23 2024
    For November 23, 2024, here’s your Lake Champlain fishing report:

    Today, the weather is partly cloudy with a crisp autumn chill, perfect for a day on the water. Sunrise was at 6:53 AM, and sunset will be at 4:13 PM. The water temperature is cooling down, which is ideal for cold-water species.

    Yesterday saw a lot of activity from trout, particularly lake trout and rainbow trout. Salmon were also active, and bass were biting well in the fall conditions. Anglers reported catching a good number of lake trout using inline silver and blue spinners, 4.3 Keitech swimbaits, and blade baits[3][4].

    For today, you can expect similar conditions. The best lures to use include those mentioned above, as well as spoons and flashers with dodgers for targeting trout and salmon. Live bait such as smelt and shiners are also effective, especially for bass and walleye.

    Hot spots include the Palisades area and the Slack Line, which have been producing good catches of trout and bass lately. The South Bay, despite the recent discovery of invasive golden clams, is still a viable spot for catching a variety of species[5].

    Tidal influences are minimal on Lake Champlain since it is a freshwater lake, so you don't need to worry about tidal changes affecting your fishing.

    Overall, it's a great day to be out on Lake Champlain, with plenty of fish activity and favorable weather conditions. Good luck on the water
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    2 mins
  • Fall Fishing Frenzy on Lake Champlain's Vibrant Bite

    Fall Fishing Frenzy on Lake Champlain's Vibrant Bite
    Nov 22 2024
    As of November 22, 2024, the fishing scene on Lake Champlain is quite vibrant, despite the late fall season.

    ### Weather and Tidal Report
    The weather is seasonably warm for this time of year, with forecasted partly cloudy skies and a high of around 50°F. There is a chance of measurable precipitation by the end of the week, but for now, conditions are agreeable for fishing. Lake Champlain, being a freshwater lake, does not have tides, so anglers can focus on other environmental factors.

    ### Sunrise and Sunset
    Sunrise today is at approximately 6:45 AM, and sunset will be around 4:15 PM, giving anglers a good window of daylight to hit the water.

    ### Fish Activity
    Fish activity on Lake Champlain is robust, especially for species like pike, bass, and trout. Recent reports indicate that pike and bass are active, particularly on the outer weed edges in 10-15 feet of water. Light tackle jigging has been successful for catching yellow perch, bluegills, and some crappie[1].

    ### Types and Amounts of Fish
    Yesterday saw a good number of pike and bass caught using tip-ups. There were also reports of trophy trout being picked up. The lake's water temperatures are ideal, supporting a diverse catch that includes trout, salmon, bass, and pike[1].

    ### Best Lures and Bait
    For pike, using pike minnows or casting out Cleos or Kastmaster spoons has been effective. For bass, jigs and 3-way rigs outfitted with MagLips or live bait are recommended. Light tackle jigging with small grubs, especially chartreuse ones with a paddle tail, has been successful for perch and other panfish[2][5].

    ### Hot Spots
    Some hot spots to consider include the outer weed edges of Lake Champlain, particularly in areas around 10-15 feet of water. The north end of the lake, near the Vermont-New York border, has also been productive for bass and pike. Additionally, the areas around the Champlain and Otter Creek Valley are known for good numbers of various fish species[1].

    Overall, Lake Champlain is offering some excellent late fall fishing opportunities, and with the right gear and knowledge of the hot spots, anglers can expect a rewarding day on the water.
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    3 mins
  • Fishing Forecast for Lake Champlain: Cooler Temps, Abundant Trout, Salmon, and More

    Fishing Forecast for Lake Champlain: Cooler Temps, Abundant Trout, Salmon, and More
    Nov 17 2024
    As of November 17, 2024, the fishing scene on Lake Champlain is looking exceptionally promising, especially with the cooler weather setting in. Here’s a rundown of what you can expect today.

    ### Weather and Tidal Conditions
    The weather is expected to be partly cloudy with a high of around 48°F and a low of 38°F. There is a light breeze out of the northwest at about 5 mph. Since Lake Champlain is a freshwater lake, tidal reports are not applicable, but water levels are currently stable.

    ### Sunrise and Sunset
    Sunrise today is at 6:43 AM, and sunset will be at 4:14 PM, giving you a good window for both morning and afternoon fishing trips.

    ### Fish Activity
    Yesterday saw a lot of activity from cold-water species. Trout, particularly lake trout and rainbow trout, were very active. Salmon, both landlocked and coho, were also biting well. Walleye and bass were also caught in decent numbers.

    ### Catch Reports
    Anglers reported catching several lake trout in the 3-5 pound range, with some larger ones up to 7 pounds. Salmon catches ranged from 2-4 pounds. Walleye were mostly in the 1-3 pound range, and bass were generally smaller, around 1-2 pounds.

    ### Best Lures and Bait
    For trout and salmon, using spoons like the Len Thompson or Blue Fox Vibrax, and flashers with dodgers have been very effective. Live bait such as smelt and shiners are also working well. For walleye, jigging with minnows or using crankbaits that mimic baitfish have been successful. Bass anglers have had luck with soft plastics and small jigs.

    ### Hot Spots
    One of the hot spots right now is the area around the Palisades and Slack Line, where the structure and drop-offs are attracting a lot of fish. Another good spot is the northern part of the lake near the Champlain Bridge, where the deeper waters are holding trout and salmon.

    Overall, it's a great time to be out on Lake Champlain, with plenty of fish to target and favorable weather conditions. Make sure to dress warmly and enjoy the beautiful fall scenery while you're out there.
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    3 mins