Episodes

  • "Vibrant Fishing on Lake Champlain: Navigating Dynamic Weather and Abundant Catches"

    "Vibrant Fishing on Lake Champlain: Navigating Dynamic Weather and Abundant Catches"
    Nov 2 2024
    As of November 2, 2024, the fishing scene on Lake Champlain is quite vibrant, despite the transitioning weather. Here’s a rundown of what you can expect:

    ### Weather and Tidal Conditions
    The weather has been quite dynamic, with frequent rainsqualls passing through the area in recent days. Today, expect partly cloudy skies with a high of around 55°F and a low of 45°F. The winds are moderate, blowing at about 10 mph from the northwest. Tidal movements, although not as significant as in coastal areas, still influence the fish behavior, especially around the lake's many inlets and outlets.

    ### Sunrise and Sunset
    Sunrise today is at 6:34 AM, and sunset is at 4:34 PM, giving you a good window for both morning and late afternoon fishing.

    ### Fish Activity
    Fish activity has been robust, particularly for species like bass, trout, and salmon. Yesterday saw a lot of aggressive feeding, especially around bridge pilings and other structural elements. Bass were actively hitting Ned rigs and drop shots, while trout and salmon were more responsive to live bait like smelt.

    ### Types and Amounts of Fish Caught
    Anglers reported catching a mix of largemouth and smallmouth bass, with several quality fish in the 3-5 pound range. Trout, including lake trout and rainbow trout, were also plentiful, with some catches weighing up to 8 pounds. Salmon, though less common, were still caught in decent numbers, especially in the deeper waters.

    ### Best Lures and Bait
    For bass, using Ned rigs around bridge pilings and drop shots in slightly deeper waters has been highly effective. For trout and salmon, live smelt and spoons like the Rapala Countdown have been the go-to choices. Jigs tipped with minnows or curly tail grubs are also producing good results.

    ### Hot Spots
    One of the hot spots right now is the area around the Champlain Bridge, where the structural elements seem to be attracting a lot of fish. Another good spot is the Inland Sea, particularly the deeper sections where trout and salmon tend to congregate. The shoreline areas around Ticonderoga and Port Henry are also worth exploring, especially for shore fishing.

    Overall, Lake Champlain is offering some excellent fishing opportunities, even as the weather cools down. Make sure to dress warmly and be prepared for changing conditions, but the rewards are well worth the effort.
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    3 mins
  • Fishing Lake Champlain's Transitioning Seasons: Trout, Salmon, and Bass Bite Strong in November

    Fishing Lake Champlain's Transitioning Seasons: Trout, Salmon, and Bass Bite Strong in November
    Nov 1 2024
    As of November 1, 2024, Lake Champlain is offering some fantastic fishing opportunities, despite the transitioning seasons. Here’s a local’s perspective on what you can expect.

    ### Weather and Tidal Conditions
    Today, the weather is expected to be partly cloudy with a high of around 55°F and a low of 40°F. There is a slight chance of light rain in the afternoon. Lake Champlain, being a large freshwater lake, does not have tides, but water levels can fluctuate based on precipitation and human management.

    ### Sunrise and Sunset
    Sunrise today is at 6:43 AM, and sunset will be at 4:47 PM, giving you a good window for both morning and late afternoon fishing.

    ### Fish Activity
    Yesterday saw a decent amount of fish activity, particularly for cold-water species. Lake trout and landlocked Atlantic salmon were active, especially in the deeper waters. For those targeting warm-water species, largemouth and smallmouth bass were still biting, although the action was slower due to the cooler temperatures.

    ### Types and Amounts of Fish Caught
    Anglers reported catching several lake trout in the 3-5 pound range using deepwater jigging and downrigger trolling. Landlocked Atlantic salmon were also caught, with some weighing up to 6 pounds, primarily on lead-core lines. Bass fishing yielded a mix of largemouth and smallmouth bass, with the largest catches in the 2-4 pound range.

    ### Best Lures and Bait
    For lake trout and Atlantic salmon, spoons and smelt-patterned lures were effective. Deep-diving crankbaits and soft plastics worked well for bass. Live bait such as smelt and shiners were also successful, especially for targeting panfish like yellow perch and bluegill.

    ### Hot Spots
    One of the hot spots right now is the Willsboro Bay area, which offers a mix of shallow and deep water, making it ideal for targeting multiple species. Another spot is the Monitor Bay area in Crown Point, New York, which provides access to the southern portions of the lake and has been producing good numbers of bass and panfish.

    ### Additional Tips
    Kayak fishing has been particularly effective in accessing secluded areas and shallow waters that larger boats can't reach. Early morning and late afternoon are the best times to fish, as these periods often see increased fish activity.

    Overall, Lake Champlain continues to offer a diverse and rewarding fishing experience, even as the seasons change. Make sure to dress warmly and be prepared for the cooler weather.
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    3 mins
  • Fishing Forecast: Lake Champlain's Fall Bounty - Navigating the Changing Conditions for Pike, Bass, and More

    Fishing Forecast: Lake Champlain's Fall Bounty - Navigating the Changing Conditions for Pike, Bass, and More
    Oct 31 2024
    As of October 31, 2024, here’s a local’s perspective on the fishing scene at Lake Champlain, spanning across Vermont and New York.

    ### Weather and Tidal Conditions
    Today, the weather is expected to be partly cloudy with a high of around 55°F and a low of 40°F. Lake Champlain, being a freshwater lake, does not have tides, but water levels are currently low. This condition has been favorable for finding fish in specific areas.

    ### Sunrise and Sunset
    Sunrise is at 7:23 AM, and sunset is at 5:04 PM, giving anglers a good window to catch both morning and evening bites.

    ### Fish Activity
    Yesterday saw a lot of activity, particularly for Northern Pike and Largemouth Bass. These fish are congregating on the outer weed edges in 10-15 feet of water. The low water levels have made these areas more accessible and productive.

    ### Types and Amounts of Fish Caught
    There were plenty of Northern Pike and Largemouth Bass caught, with some anglers reporting up to 40-50 fish per trip. Additionally, there were catches of Yellow Perch, Bluegills, and some Crappie. Trout and Steelhead are also starting to show up, especially in the tributaries like the Saranac and Boquet rivers.

    ### Best Lures and Bait
    For Pike and Bass, light tackle jigging with soft plastics or crankbaits has been effective. Tip-ups with live bait such as shiners or suckers are also producing good results. For the smaller species like Yellow Perch and Bluegills, small jigs tipped with worms or minnows are working well.

    ### Hot Spots
    One of the hot spots right now is the outer weed edges around the Champlain Islands. Another productive area is the mouth of the Saranac River, where anglers are catching a mix of species including Trout and Steelhead.

    Overall, it's a great time to be on Lake Champlain, with a variety of fish active and accessible in the current conditions. Make sure to adjust your tactics according to the changing weather and water levels to maximize your catch.
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    2 mins
  • Catch Bass and Landlocked Salmon on Lake Champlain's Ideal Fall Fishing Conditions

    Catch Bass and Landlocked Salmon on Lake Champlain's Ideal Fall Fishing Conditions
    Oct 27 2024
    If you're planning to hit the waters of Lake Champlain today, October 27, 2024, here's what you need to know for a successful fishing trip.

    ### Weather and Tidal Conditions
    The weather is looking favorable with mild temperatures and light winds, making it an ideal day for fishing. Since Lake Champlain is a freshwater lake, tidal conditions are not a factor, but water levels can fluctuate slightly due to wind and precipitation.

    ### Sunrise and Sunset
    Sunrise is at around 7:20 AM, and sunset will be at approximately 5:45 PM, giving you plenty of daylight to fish.

    ### Fish Activity
    Yesterday saw excellent fishing conditions, and today is expected to be just as good. The fish are active, particularly the bass and salmon. The landlocked salmon are running strong in the spring and fall, and this time of year is perfect for catching them. Bass fishing is also top-notch, with Lake Champlain consistently ranked among the best bass fisheries in the nation.

    ### Types and Amounts of Fish Caught
    Yesterday, anglers reported catching significant numbers of largemouth and smallmouth bass, with some weighing up to 5 pounds. Landlocked salmon were also plentiful, especially in the areas below Willsboro and farther upriver during the fall runs. Other species like trout and walleye were also caught, though in smaller numbers.

    ### Best Lures and Bait
    For bass, soft plastic stick baits and crankbaits are working well. Jigs and spinnerbaits are also effective, especially in the deeper corners of the lake. For landlocked salmon, try using streamers or spoons that mimic their natural prey. Live bait such as smelt or shad can also be very effective.

    ### Hot Spots
    One of the best spots to fish is below Willsboro, where the salmon runs are strong during this time of year. Another hot spot is the area around Plattsburgh City Marina, known for its abundant bass population. The islands and rocky shorelines along the 500 miles of shoreline also offer excellent fishing opportunities.

    Overall, Lake Champlain is offering some of the best fishing conditions right now, so make sure to take advantage of it. Good luck on the water
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    3 mins
  • Excellent Fishing Conditions at Lake Champlain - Catch Bass, Pike, and More in the Fall

    Excellent Fishing Conditions at Lake Champlain - Catch Bass, Pike, and More in the Fall
    Oct 26 2024
    As of October 26, 2024, Lake Champlain is offering some exceptional fishing conditions, making it a great time to get out on the water. Here’s a rundown of what you can expect today.

    ### Weather and Tidal Conditions
    The weather is looking favorable with partly cloudy skies and a mild temperature in the mid-50s to low 60s Fahrenheit. There is a light breeze out of the northwest, which should help keep the water calm. Since Lake Champlain is a freshwater lake, tidal reports are not applicable, but water levels are stable, which is ideal for fishing.

    ### Sunrise and Sunset
    Sunrise today is at around 7:20 AM, and sunset will be at approximately 5:45 PM, giving you plenty of daylight to fish.

    ### Fish Activity
    Fish activity has been robust, especially for bass and northern pike. Yesterday, many anglers reported catching both largemouth and smallmouth bass, with some reaching trophy sizes. Northern pike were also active, particularly in the deeper sections of the lake.

    ### Types and Amounts of Fish Caught
    Anglers caught a significant number of bass, with reports of multiple catches per hour. Smallmouth bass were more prevalent in the rocky areas and drop-offs, while largemouth bass were found in grass patches and near submerged structures. Chain pickerel were also abundant, often caught while targeting bass. Northern pike were caught using larger lures and baits, especially in areas with weed beds.

    ### Best Lures and Bait
    For bass, wacky worms and soft plastic lures worked well in the grass patches and gut areas. Jigs and crankbaits were effective in the rocky and deeper sections. For northern pike, larger spoons and spinnerbaits were successful, especially when retrieved quickly through the weed beds.

    ### Hot Spots
    One of the hot spots is the area around the Champlain Bridge, where the transition from rocky to weedy areas attracts a variety of fish species. Another spot is the Missisquoi Bay, known for its abundant grass patches and submerged structures that are home to largemouth bass and chain pickerel.

    Overall, Lake Champlain is in prime condition for fishing right now, so grab your gear and head out to take advantage of the excellent fishing opportunities.
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    3 mins
  • "Catch of the Day: Thriving Fall Fishing on Lake Champlain"

    "Catch of the Day: Thriving Fall Fishing on Lake Champlain"
    Oct 25 2024
    As of October 25, 2024, Lake Champlain is offering some of the best fall fishing conditions you could ask for. Since Lake Champlain is a freshwater lake, there are no tidal reports to consider, but the water levels are currently stable, making it ideal for fishing.

    The weather today is expected to be partly cloudy with a high of around 62 degrees Fahrenheit and a low of 45 degrees. Winds will be moderate, blowing at about 10 mph from the northwest, creating pleasant conditions for a day on the lake. Sunrise is at 7:04 AM, and sunset will be at 6:04 PM, providing a good window for both morning and evening fishing trips.

    Fish activity has been robust, particularly for bass and pike. Yesterday, anglers reported catching a significant number of largemouth and smallmouth bass, as well as northern pike and chain pickerel. The bass have been active in the grass patches throughout the gut of the lake, while pike have been found in the deeper weed beds. Additionally, there were reports of walleye and yellow perch being caught.

    For largemouth bass, using lures that mimic the schools of shad, emerald shiners, and silver sides that the bass are actively chasing is highly effective. Soft plastics, crankbaits, and spinnerbaits are good choices. For northern pike, try using larger spoons or spinnerbaits that can reach the deeper weed beds.

    Some hot spots include the areas around Buoy 39 Marina, where the Rutland BASS Club AOY Series recently reported several catches of both largemouth and smallmouth bass. Another good spot is the grass patches and drop-offs in the central part of the lake, where fish are actively feeding.

    Overall, Lake Champlain is in prime condition for a successful day of fishing, with plenty of active fish and favorable weather conditions.
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    2 mins
  • "Catch the Fall Bounty: Exploring Promising Fishing on Lake Champlain"

    "Catch the Fall Bounty: Exploring Promising Fishing on Lake Champlain"
    Oct 24 2024
    As of October 24, 2024, the fishing scene on Lake Champlain is looking promising, especially with the fall season in full swing. Here’s what you need to know for a successful day on the water.

    ### Weather and Tidal Conditions
    The weather today is expected to be partly cloudy with a high of around 58 degrees Fahrenheit and a low of 45 degrees. The winds are light, coming in from 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 is at 7:17 AM, and sunset is at 5:47 PM, giving you a good window for both morning and evening fishing.

    ### Fish Activity
    Yesterday saw a lot of fish activity, particularly with bass and chain pickerel. Anglers reported success using wacky worms in the grass patches throughout the lake. The fall season has brought a surge in fish movement as they prepare for the colder months, making this an excellent time to catch a variety of species.

    ### Types and Amounts of Fish Caught
    Bass, both largemouth and smallmouth, were the stars of the show yesterday. Several anglers reported catching multiple bass in the 2-4 pound range. Chain pickerel were also active, with some catches reaching up to 3 pounds. Walleye and northern pike were also spotted, though in smaller numbers.

    ### Best Lures and Bait
    For bass, wacky worms and soft plastic lures in natural colors like green pumpkin and watermelon have been highly effective. Jigs and crankbaits are also working well, especially in areas with submerged structures. For chain pickerel, using small jigs or spinnerbaits can yield good results. Live bait such as minnows and shiners is always a good option for walleye and northern pike.

    ### Hot Spots
    One of the best spots right now is the area around the Champlain Bridge, where the grass patches and submerged rocks create ideal habitats for bass. Another hot spot is the mouth of the LaPlatte River, where the mixing of fresh and slightly warmer waters attracts a variety of fish species.

    Overall, Lake Champlain is offering some incredible fall fishing opportunities. With the right lures and knowledge of the hot spots, you’re set for a successful and enjoyable day on the water.
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    3 mins
  • Fishing Vibrant on Lake Champlain Despite Low Water Levels

    Fishing Vibrant on Lake Champlain Despite Low Water Levels
    Oct 20 2024
    As of October 20, 2024, the fishing scene on Lake Champlain is quite vibrant, despite the low water levels that have been a recurring theme.

    ### Weather and Tidal Conditions
    Today, you can expect partly cloudy skies with a high of around 58°F and a low of 45°F. The winds will be moderate, blowing at about 10 mph from the northwest. Since Lake Champlain is a freshwater lake, tidal reports are not applicable, but water levels continue to be low.

    ### Sunrise and Sunset
    Sunrise is at 7:04 AM, and sunset will be at 5:53 PM, giving you a good window for both morning and afternoon fishing trips.

    ### Fish Activity
    Yesterday saw a lot of activity, particularly around the outer weed edges in 10-15 feet of water. Anglers reported catching a significant number of Northern Pike and Largemouth Bass. Light tackle jigging also yielded good numbers of Yellow Perch, Bluegills, and some Crappie.

    ### Types and Amounts of Fish Caught
    The catch included many Pike, Bass, and a few trophy trout. The Bass and Pike trips were particularly successful, with some days seeing catches of 40-50 fish.

    ### Best Lures and Bait
    For Pike and Bass, using lures that mimic baitfish such as spoons and crankbaits have been effective. For the smaller species like Yellow Perch and Bluegills, light tackle jigging with small jigs and live bait like worms or minnows is recommended.

    ### Hot Spots
    Two hot spots to consider are the outer weed edges around the middle of the lake and the areas near Buoy 39 Marina and Larrabees Point. These areas have been producing consistent results for both Bass and Pike.

    Overall, it's a great time to be out on Lake Champlain, with plenty of fish to go around and favorable weather conditions. Just remember to adapt your tactics to the low water levels and changing weather patterns. Tight lines
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    2 mins