Lake Champlain Fishing Report: Trout, Salmon, and Bass Thrive in Early Spring

Hey there, fellow anglers! Artificial Lure here with your Lake Champlain fishing report for March 16, 2025. Sunrise today was at 7:03 AM, and we're looking at a sunset around 6:54 PM. Weather-wise, it's a bit chilly with temperatures hovering in the low 40s Fahrenheit. We've got partly cloudy skies and a light northwest wind at about 5 to 10 knots.

Now, onto the fishing! The lake level is sitting at about 96 feet, which is pretty typical for this time of year. We're seeing some decent action despite the cooler temps. Anglers have been having good luck with lake trout and landlocked salmon in the deeper parts of the main lake. I've heard reports of some nice catches near Valcour Island and off the shores of Burlington.

Bass fishing has been picking up, with a few anglers pulling in some decent smallmouth using drop shots and jerkbaits in 15 to 25 feet of water. The Inland Sea area has been producing some nice catches.

For you pike enthusiasts, the shallow bays are starting to warm up, and we're seeing some early season action. Try throwing some large spoons or swimbaits in areas like Missisquoi Bay or the Larabee's Point area.

Lure-wise, I'd recommend having a mix of jerkbaits, drop shot rigs, and some larger swimbaits for the pike. The Berkley PowerBait MaxScent Flat Worm on a drop shot has been a killer for smallmouth. For lake trout and salmon, try trolling with spoons like the Sutton 71 in copper or silver.

If you're looking for some hot spots, I'd suggest checking out Malletts Bay for a mix of species, or head up to the Inland Sea area for some good smallmouth action. The Champlain Bridge area has also been producing some nice lake trout.

Remember, folks, the key to success this time of year is to fish slow and deep. Don't be afraid to switch up your presentations if you're not getting any bites.

That's all for now, anglers. Stay safe out there, and tight lines!