Chilly Winter Fishing on Lake Champlain: Targeting Smallmouth Bass, Lake Trout, and Yellow Perch

As of January 9, 2025, the fishing scene on Lake Champlain is bustling despite the chilly winter conditions. Here’s what you need to know for a successful day on the water.

### Weather and Ice Conditions
A Winter Weather Advisory is in effect for parts of the northern Adirondacks and northern Green Mountains, with snow accumulations ranging from 3-9 inches and winds gusting up to 40 mph. This will create blowing and drifting snow, making navigation a bit challenging. Lake Champlain itself is partially iced, especially in the bays at the north and south ends, but open water areas are still accessible. Check the latest ice coverage images from the European Space Agency Sentinel-2 satellite for a rough idea of the ice conditions[2].

### Sunrise and Sunset
Sunrise today is at around 7:30 AM, and sunset will be at approximately 4:30 PM. These times are crucial for planning your fishing trip, especially if you're targeting species that are more active during these periods.

### Fish Activity
Yesterday saw a good amount of activity from smallmouth bass, lake trout, and yellow perch. Smallmouth bass were particularly active in deeper waters and structural areas like rock piles and drop-offs, with some catches reaching up to 4 pounds[1].

Lake trout fishing remains strong, especially in the middle section of the main lake, from Westport to Cumberland Head. These fish are often caught by jigging or trolling over 100 feet below the surface. Look for them 1 to 3 feet above the bottom, chasing rainbow smelt[3].

Yellow perch are abundant, particularly in mud and muck-bottomed areas, as well as on rock piles and reefs. Perch fishing peaks during the ice fishing season, but they can also be caught in open water areas[3].

### Best Lures and Bait
For smallmouth bass, use lures that mimic their natural prey, such as crankbaits, soft plastics, and jigs. In the deeper waters, a slow and steady retrieve can be very effective.

For lake trout, spoons and deep-diving lures are excellent choices. Trolling speeds between 1.8 and 2.5 mph are most effective. Good quality electronics to mark bait and identify prime humps, reefs, and points are essential[4].

For yellow perch, small jigs tipped with live bait such as minnows or worms work well. They also respond to small spoons and tiny crankbaits.

### Hot Spots
- **Shelburne Bay**: A great spot for largemouth bass, just south of Burlington.
- **Town Farm Bay and Otter Creek area**: Excellent for largemouth bass as well.
- **Middle section of the main lake (Westport to Cumberland Head)**: Prime area for lake trout.
- **Bulwagga Bay**: A popular spot for yellow perch and other species near the south end of the lake[3].

Stay warm, dress appropriately, and enjoy the serene winter fishing experience on Lake Champlain. Remember to check the latest recreational forecast from the National Weather Service in Burlington for the most accurate and up-to-date information[2].