Lake Champlain's Winter Wonderland: Fishing, Tides, and Conditions for December 20, 2024

If you're planning to hit Lake Champlain today, December 20, 2024, here's what you need to know. First off, let's talk about the tidal report, although it's not a significant factor since Lake Champlain is a freshwater lake. However, for reference, today's water levels will see a high tide at 1:19 AM and 1:55 PM, with heights of 5.71 feet and 4.66 feet respectively, and low tides at 10:41 AM and 9:22 PM, with heights of 3.51 feet and 3.45 feet.

The weather is chilly, with sunrise at 7:29 AM and sunset at 4:04 PM. Expect partly cloudy conditions with temperatures ranging from the mid-30s to mid-40s Fahrenheit, and light winds coming from the northwest at about 5-10 mph.

Fish activity on Lake Champlain remains robust even in winter. Yesterday saw a lot of activity from smallmouth bass, particularly in the deeper waters and structural areas like rock piles and drop-offs. Some catches reached up to 4 pounds. Lake trout and salmon are also active, especially in the deeper areas and near the river mouths. Yellow perch are active as well, often feeding on lake trout eggs which are abundant from the fall spawning season.

For targeting these species, use lures that mimic their natural forage. For lake trout, jigging or trolling with lures that imitate rainbow smelt is effective. Smallmouth bass can be caught using crankbaits, jigs, and soft plastics that target the deeper structural areas. Yellow perch can be caught using small jigs tipped with minnows or worms.

Some of the best spots to try your luck include the middle section of the main lake, particularly between Westport and Cumberland Head for lake trout. For smallmouth bass, Shelburne Bay and the Otter Creek area are great spots. Bulwagga Bay near the south end of the lake is a popular spot for yellow perch.

Remember to prioritize safety, wearing a PFD and monitoring the weather and wind forecast closely. Let someone know your plans and expected return time. Enjoy your day on the water