Early Spring Fishing Bounty on Lake Champlain

Fishing Report for Lake Champlain - April 4, 2025

Spring fishing is officially underway on Lake Champlain, and today’s conditions are primed for angling success. Sunrise was at 6:22 AM, with sunset at 7:22 PM, offering extended daylight for fishing enthusiasts. The tidal schedule shows a high tide at 3:18 AM, a low tide at 11:17 AM, and another high tide at 3:48 PM—ideal for targeting various fish species throughout the day.

The weather is mild and mostly sunny, with temperatures in the mid-50s (°F). Winds are light, creating calm water conditions perfect for casting. The water temperature is still cool, typical for early April, encouraging springtime activity among cold-water species like lake trout and salmon.

Recent catches include lake trout, salmon, largemouth bass, and smallmouth bass. The pre-spawn bass bite is improving, with anglers reporting catches of 50 to 75 bass per day in staging areas along rocky shorelines and submerged vegetation. Northern pike and crappie have also been active in the weedy shallows and back bays, such as South Bay and Bulwagga Bay.

Recommended lures and techniques include:
- **Bass:** Swim jigs, bladed jigs, and shallow-diving crankbaits for staging pre-spawn fish.
- **Lake Trout:** Jigging with dead alewife on deep humps, focusing on depths around 20 feet.
- **Crappie:** Small jigs or live minnows in shallow, brushy areas.
- **Northern Pike:** Large spoons and live bait in weedy coves.

Hot spots include the southern end of the lake near Chimney Point and the sheltered bays of Malletts Bay to the north. Shelburne Bay is another top location, especially for bass enthusiasts, with its rocky structure and marshy inlets fostering prime fish habitats.

Whether you’re trolling for lake trout or tossing jigs for staging bass, today promises great action for anglers on Lake Champlain. Good luck and tight lines!