"Ice Fishing on Lake Champlain: Tapping into the Winter Bounty"

Today, January 26, 2025, the fishing scene on Lake Champlain is looking promising, despite the chilly winter conditions. Here’s a rundown of what you can expect:

### Tidal and Weather Conditions
Since Lake Champlain is a freshwater lake, it doesn't have tides, but the weather is crucial. Today, expect a partly cloudy sky with temperatures ranging from the mid-20s to mid-30s Fahrenheit. Sunrise is at 7:15 AM, and sunset will be at 5:57 PM.

### Fish Activity
The cold weather means ice fishing is in full swing. Yesterday, anglers reported a good catch of yellow perch, particularly in areas like Shelburne Bay and Bulwagga Bay. Lake trout and landlocked Atlantic salmon are also active, though they can be more challenging to catch in the cold.

### Types and Amounts of Fish
Yellow perch were abundant, with many in the 8- to 10-inch range. Some larger perch were also caught. Lake trout and landlocked Atlantic salmon were less common but still present, especially around underwater structures like shoals and rock piles.

### Best Lures and Bait
For yellow perch, small jigs tipped with waxworms or minnows are highly effective. For lake trout, try using deep-diving lures or jigging spoons, especially near underwater islands and shoals. Landlocked Atlantic salmon can be caught using streamers or small spoons.

### Hot Spots
- **Shelburne Bay**: Known for its mud and muck-bottomed areas, this bay is a hotspot for yellow perch.
- **Bulwagga Bay**: Located near the south end of the lake, this bay is popular for perch and other species.
- **Underwater Islands and Shoals**: These areas are ideal for lake trout and landlocked Atlantic salmon.

### Additional Tips
Be cautious of the ice conditions, as they can vary. Make sure to check the ice thickness before venturing out. Also, keep an eye out for signs of sea lamprey, which can be a threat to the native fish populations.

Overall, it's a great day to get out on the ice and enjoy some of the best fishing Lake Champlain has to offer. Stay warm and good luck