Episodes

  • Lake Champlain Fishing Report: Ice Fishing Hotspots and Open Water Opportunities

    Lake Champlain Fishing Report: Ice Fishing Hotspots and Open Water Opportunities
    Feb 8 2025
    Hello there, fellow anglers, this is Artificial Lure here to give you the lowdown on the fishing scene around Lake Champlain for today, February 8th, 2025.

    First off, let's talk about the weather. It's another crisp winter morning here in Vermont and New York, with temperatures just above freezing. The forecast shows a mix of sun and clouds, which is perfect for getting out on the ice. Sunrise today is at around 7:04 AM, and sunset will be at 5:02 PM, giving us a good window to get some fishing in.

    Since Lake Champlain is a large freshwater lake, we don't have to worry about tides, but ice conditions are what we're focusing on this time of year. As of now, the ice is holding up well, with many areas having 20-30 inches of solid ice, making it safe for ice fishing.

    Recently, the fishing has been excellent, especially for those targeting yellow perch, bluegills, and crappies. These species are active under the ice, particularly in areas with mud and muck-bottomed bays. Bulwagga Bay near the south end of the lake and Shelburne Bay just south of Burlington are hot spots right now.

    For perch and bluegills, light tackle jigging with small jigs tipped with live bait like worms or minnows has been very effective. Crappies are also being caught alongside perch and sunfish, often in the same areas. Small spoons like the Kastmaster or Genz Worms are excellent for panfish.

    If you're after something bigger, pike and bass are also biting well. Tip-ups with live bait such as shiners or suckers are working great for these species. For pike and bass, larger spoons or jigging lures like the Rapala Jigging Rap can be very effective.

    For those who are adventurous and have the right gear, jigging for lake trout in the deeper sections of the lake can be rewarding. Lake trout are often found in depths over 100 feet, but during the winter, they might be a bit shallower. However, this requires more specialized gear and knowledge of the deep structure.

    In the open water areas, as the fall season transitions into winter, Lake Trout, Landlocked Salmon, and Smallmouth Bass are still active. Anglers have been reporting success using spoons and live bait while trolling at depths of 25-40 feet near the main lake points and drop-offs. Silver and green patterns are proving effective for Salmon and Trout.

    Before you head out, make sure to check the ice thickness in your area and follow all safety guidelines. It's also a good idea to stay updated on local fishing reports and regulations.

    So, bundle up, grab your gear, and get out there – the fish are waiting, and the fresh air and beautiful scenery of Lake Champlain are just the therapy you need. Tight lines, everyone
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    3 mins
  • "Frozen Fishing Frenzy: Exploring Ice Fishing on Lake Champlain in Late January"

    "Frozen Fishing Frenzy: Exploring Ice Fishing on Lake Champlain in Late January"
    Jan 26 2025
    Today, January 26, 2025, the fishing scene on Lake Champlain is quite unique, given the time of year. Since Lake Champlain is a freshwater lake, it does not have tides, so you don't need to worry about tidal changes.

    The weather is chilly, with temperatures in the mid-20s to low 30s Fahrenheit, typical for late January. Sunrise was at around 7:30 AM, and sunset will be at about 4:30 PM.

    Despite the cold, ice fishing is in full swing, particularly in the bays at the north and south ends of the lake, which tend to freeze first. Yesterday's catches were promising, with several anglers reporting successful outings for yellow perch, walleyes, and northern pike.

    For yellow perch, the best spots are usually mud and muck-bottomed areas, as well as rock piles and reefs. Bulwagga Bay near the south end of the lake is a popular spot. Perch are often caught using small jigs tipped with live bait like worms or minnows.

    Walleyes and northern pike can be targeted using slow trolling or jigging techniques. Walleyes tend to school on flats and around any remaining green vegetation under the ice. Jigs with minnows or jigging spoons work well for these species.

    Lake trout, though typically deeper, can also be caught through the ice, especially in areas like the middle section of the main lake between Westport and Cumberland Head. However, this usually requires more specialized gear and knowledge of the deep structures.

    For lures, small jigs, jigging spoons, and live bait such as worms, minnows, and smelt are highly effective. Given the cold weather, dressing warmly and being prepared for changing conditions is crucial.

    Hot spots include Shelburne Bay for largemouth bass, though this is more of a summer spot, and Town Farm Bay for a variety of species. For ice fishing, focus on the bays and areas with known perch and walleye activity.

    Overall, it's a great time to be on Lake Champlain if you're prepared for the cold and know where to look. Stay warm and tight lines
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    2 mins
  • Icy Depths of Lake Champlain: Trophy Winter Fishing on the Horizon

    Icy Depths of Lake Champlain: Trophy Winter Fishing on the Horizon
    Jan 25 2025
    If you're planning to hit Lake Champlain today, January 25, 2025, here's what you need to know:

    First off, the tidal conditions are as follows: low tide at 3:57 AM, high tide at 9:06 AM, another low tide at 2:25 PM, and a final high tide at 8:03 PM. The sunrise is at 7:20 AM, and the sunset will be at 4:43 PM.

    The weather is cold, typical for mid-January, but that hasn't slowed down the fishing. Yesterday saw excellent action for those targeting Lake Trout, Landlocked Salmon, and Steelhead. These species have been active in the deeper sections of the lake, particularly in the middle area from Westport to Cumberland Head.

    Lake Trout were caught by jigging and trolling over 100 feet below the surface, with active fish often found 1 to 3 feet above the bottom chasing rainbow smelt. The last few weeks have been exceptional, with trophy Steelhead, numerous beautiful Salmon, and the biggest Lake Trout of the year being landed. Trolling trips have yielded plenty of Lake Trout, Landlocked Salmon, and Steelhead, with some trips seeing over 25 bites in a single evening.

    For Lake Trout, using Downriggers, Slidediver dipsies, and copper long lines has been key. Switching baits regularly has also helped in putting these trophy fish in the box.

    If you're looking for hot spots, Kings Bay at the mouth of the Great Chazy River is a great place to start, especially for Bass and other species. The middle section of the main lake, from Westport to Cumberland Head, is ideal for Lake Trout. For perch and crappie, areas like Bulwagga Bay and South Bay are popular, especially during the ice fishing season.

    So, bundle up and get out there – Lake Champlain is offering some fantastic winter fishing opportunities. Stay safe, and good luck on the water
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    2 mins
  • Fishing Lake Champlain: Trout, Pike, and Perch Thrive in Winter's Icy Embrace

    Fishing Lake Champlain: Trout, Pike, and Perch Thrive in Winter's Icy Embrace
    Jan 24 2025
    Today, January 24, 2025, fishing on Lake Champlain is looking promising despite the cold winter conditions. Here’s a rundown of what you can expect:

    ### Tidal and Weather Conditions
    The tide times for today are as follows: low tide at 2:31 AM and 1:25 PM, with high tides at 8:03 AM and 6:59 PM. The water levels are relatively stable, with heights ranging from 0.65 to 1.09 meters. Sunrise is at 7:21 AM, and sunset will be at 4:42 PM. The moonrise is at 3:27 AM, and moonset is at 11:42 AM.

    ### Fish Activity
    Given the winter season, the primary targets are species like lake trout, northern pike, and yellow perch. Lake trout are often found in deeper waters, typically between 80 to 100 feet deep, especially around points and reefs. Northern pike can be found in shallower areas near weedbeds or dying weeds. Yellow perch are abundant in mud and muck-bottomed areas but also school on rock piles and reefs.

    ### Catch Reports
    Yesterday, anglers reported catching a good number of yellow perch, particularly in areas like Bulwagga Bay and South Bay. Lake trout were also caught in the middle section of the main lake, around Westport to Cumberland Head. Northern pike were active in shallow bays like Shelburne Bay and Town Farm Bay.

    ### Best Lures and Bait
    For lake trout, jigging or trolling with lures that mimic rainbow smelt is effective. Use a quality topographic map and a fish finder to identify prime humps, reefs, and points. For northern pike, use streamers or lures that resemble baitfish, targeting areas with submerged vegetation. Yellow perch can be caught using small jigs tipped with worms or minnows.

    ### Hot Spots
    - **Shelburne Bay**: A prime spot for largemouth bass and northern pike, especially in areas with heavy swaths of submerged vegetation.
    - **Bulwagga Bay**: Known for its yellow perch fishery, this bay is a hotspot during the ice fishing season but also holds fish in the open water periods.
    - **Westport to Cumberland Head**: This area is the heart of the lake trout fishery, offering deep structure and excellent jigging and trolling spots.

    Remember to prioritize safety, especially during winter months. Wear a PFD, check the weather forecast, and let someone know your plans and expected return time. Enjoy your day on Lake Champlain
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    3 mins
  • Winter Walleye Wonderland: Navigating the Icy Depths of Lake Champlain

    Winter Walleye Wonderland: Navigating the Icy Depths of Lake Champlain
    Jan 23 2025
    Today, January 23, 2025, Lake Champlain is offering a mixed bag for anglers, despite the cold winter conditions.

    ### Tidal and Weather Conditions
    The tide times for today are as follows: Low Tide at 00:47 AM with a height of 2.53 ft, High Tide at 5:09 AM with a height of 3.15 ft, Low Tide at 12:29 PM with a height of 2.26 ft, and High Tide at 5:40 PM with a height of 3.54 ft. Sunrise is at 7:22 AM and sunset is at 4:40 PM[2].

    Given the winter season, the water temperature is quite cold, which typically slows down fish activity. However, for those brave enough to venture out, there are still opportunities.

    ### Fish Activity
    During the winter months, ice fishing is the primary method on Lake Champlain. The fish that are most active during this time include perch, crappie, and lake trout. Perch are often found in mud and muck-bottomed areas, as well as on rock piles and reefs. Crappie can be caught alongside perch and sunfish, particularly in areas like Bulwagga Bay and South Bay[3].

    ### Catch Reports
    Yesterday's ice fishing trips yielded a decent number of yellow perch, with many in the 8- to 10-inch range. Some anglers also caught crappie and a few lake trout, which were typically found at depths over 100 feet, jigging or trolling near prime humps, reefs, and points[3].

    ### Best Lures and Bait
    For perch and crappie, small jigs tipped with bait like maggots or small minnows work well. For lake trout, using lures that mimic their main forage, such as rainbow smelt, is effective. Trolling with downriggers and switching baits regularly can also be successful[1][3].

    ### Hot Spots
    Bulwagga Bay near the south end of the lake is a popular spot for perch and crappie. The middle section of the main lake, from Westport to Cumberland Head, is ideal for lake trout due to its deep structure and abundant forage[3].

    Remember to prioritize safety, wear a PFD, check the weather, and continuously monitor the ice conditions while on the lake. Enjoy your time on Lake Champlain, and stay warm
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    3 mins
  • Winter Wonderland: Ice Fishing Lake Champlain's Bounty

    Winter Wonderland: Ice Fishing Lake Champlain's Bounty
    Jan 19 2025
    Today, January 19, 2025, Lake Champlain is offering some exciting fishing opportunities despite the winter conditions. Here’s a rundown of what you can expect:

    ### Tidal and Weather Conditions
    As of today, the high tide is at 1:43 AM and 2:03 PM, with low tides at 10:25 AM and 10:19 PM. The sunrise is at 7:25 AM, and the sunset will be at 4:35 PM. The moon will set at 10:00 AM and rise again at 10:58 PM[2].

    ### Fish Activity
    Winter fishing on Lake Champlain is in full swing, with ice cover forming in the bays and shallower areas. This time of year is excellent for ice fishing, particularly for yellow perch, crappie, and lake trout. Anglers have been reporting good catches of perch in mud and muck-bottomed areas, as well as around rock piles and reefs. Crappie are also active, often caught alongside perch and sunfish under the ice[3].

    ### Recent Catches
    Yesterday, anglers reported catching many yellow perch, some in the 8- to 10-inch range, and a few larger ones. Crappie and sunfish were also common catches. For those targeting lake trout, jigging or trolling over deep structures has been productive, with fish often found 1 to 3 feet above the bottom chasing rainbow smelt[3].

    ### Best Lures and Bait
    For perch and crappie, small jigs tipped with minnows or waxworms are highly effective. Lake trout anglers have been using deep-diving lures and spoons, as well as jigging with heavy metal jigs. For those fly fishing, streamers like Lefty's Deceiver and Clouser Minnows in white and chartreuse have been successful for bass and pike[4].

    ### Hot Spots
    Bulwagga Bay near the south end of the lake is a popular spot for perch and crappie. The area around Kings Bay at the mouth of the Great Chazy River is also promising for a variety of species. For lake trout, the middle section of the main lake, particularly from Westport to Cumberland Head, offers excellent deep structure[3].

    Stay safe on the ice, check the weather forecast, and let someone know your plans and expected return time. With the right gear and knowledge, Lake Champlain can provide an unforgettable winter fishing experience.
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    3 mins
  • Lake Champlain Winter Wonderland: Exploring Ice Fishing Opportunities

    Lake Champlain Winter Wonderland: Exploring Ice Fishing Opportunities
    Jan 18 2025
    Today, January 18, 2025, Lake Champlain is offering some exciting fishing opportunities despite the winter conditions. Here’s a rundown of what you can expect:

    ### Tidal and Weather Conditions
    As of today, the tide times for Lake Champlain are as follows: high tide at 00:58 AM with a height of 1.64 meters, low tide at 9:58 AM with a height of 0.92 meters, high tide at 1:21 PM with a height of 1.42 meters, and low tide at 9:39 PM with a height of 0.89 meters[2]. The sunrise is at 7:26 AM, and the sunset is at 4:33 PM.

    ### Fish Activity
    During this time of year, ice fishing is a popular and productive method on Lake Champlain. The cold waters are home to a variety of species, including yellow perch, crappie, and northern pike. Yesterday, anglers reported catching a good number of yellow perch, particularly in the mud and muck-bottomed areas and around rock piles and reefs[3].

    ### Types and Amounts of Fish
    The perch fishery is particularly strong, with many anglers catching yellow perch in the 8- to 10-inch range. Crappie, both black and white, are also active, often caught alongside perch and sunfish. Northern pike and walleye are also present, though they may be less active in the colder waters.

    ### Best Lures and Bait
    For ice fishing, small jigs tipped with live bait such as minnows or worms are highly effective for perch and crappie. For northern pike, using larger lures like spoons or tip-ups with sucker minnows can yield good results. Walleye can be targeted with jigging lures or live bait on the bottom[3][4].

    ### Hot Spots
    Bulwagga Bay near the south end of the lake is a popular spot for perch and crappie. South Bay and the mouths of tributaries like the La Chute River and Grand Brook are also excellent areas to target crappie as they start to move into shallow bays and backwaters[3].

    ### Safety Reminder
    Always prioritize safety while ice fishing. Ensure the ice is thick enough to support your weight, wear a PFD, check the weather forecast, and let someone know your plans and expected return time[4].

    With the right gear and knowledge of the hot spots, you can have a successful and enjoyable day on Lake Champlain. Stay warm and tight lines
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    3 mins
  • Ice Fishing Lake Champlain in 2025: Tips for a Successful Winter Adventure

    Ice Fishing Lake Champlain in 2025: Tips for a Successful Winter Adventure
    Jan 17 2025
    If you're planning to hit Lake Champlain today, January 17, 2025, here's what you need to know:

    First off, the tidal conditions aren't a major concern for ice fishing, but for reference, today's tides are as follows: high tide at 12:40 PM at 4.7 feet, low tide at 9:24 AM at 2.99 feet, and another low tide at 8:57 PM at 2.95 feet.

    The weather is chilly, with sunrise at 7:27 AM and sunset at 4:32 PM. Make sure to dress warmly, as safety is a top priority in these winter conditions.

    Fish activity has been robust, especially for ice fishing. Yesterday, anglers reported catching a significant number of yellow perch, mostly in the 8- to 10-inch range, with some larger ones caught in mud and muck-bottomed areas and around rock piles and reefs. Crappie and sunfish were also caught, often alongside the perch. Lake trout and northern pike were active in deeper waters and around submerged structures.

    For targeting these species, consider using deepwater jigging and downrigger trolling for lake trout. Northern pike and pickerel can be caught using streamers or lures that mimic their natural prey, such as minnows or alewives. For smallmouth bass, bladed jigs or grass jigs work well around submerged vegetation.

    Bulwagga Bay and South Bay are hot spots for yellow perch, while the area between Westport and Cumberland Head is ideal for lake trout. Look for points with some current for lake trout, and shallow areas near weedbeds or dying weeds for northern pike.

    Remember to stay safe, wear a PFD, and let someone know your plans and expected return time. Enjoy your time on the ice
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    2 mins