Podcast Episode Title: Winter Fishing on Lake Champlain: Smallmouth Bass, Trout, and Perch Await Anglers

As of December 14, 2024, the fishing scene on Lake Champlain is quite inviting despite the winter conditions. Here’s what you can expect today from a local’s perspective.

### Weather and Conditions
The weather is chilly, with temperatures hovering around the mid-20s to low 30s Fahrenheit. Expect partly cloudy skies with a moderate wind, making the water surface a bit choppy but manageable for ice-free areas. Sunrise is at 7:25 AM, and sunset will be at about 4:02 PM.

### Tidal Report
Although Lake Champlain is a freshwater lake and does not have significant tidal changes, here are the water level fluctuations for today: the low tide is at 5:49 AM with a height of 3.05 feet, followed by a high tide at 8:55 AM with a height of 4.66 feet. The next low tide is at 5:30 PM, and the final high tide of the day is at 9:19 PM with a height of 5.94 feet.

### Fish Activity
Yesterday saw a lot of activity, particularly with smallmouth bass, which are actively feeding in the cooler waters, preparing for the winter months. Trout and salmon are also active, especially in the deeper areas and near the river mouths. Yellow perch are more active during early winter and early spring, making them a good target now.

### Catches
Anglers reported catching a significant number of smallmouth bass, with some reaching up to 4 pounds. Walleye and trout were also caught in decent numbers.

### Best Lures and Bait
For smallmouth bass, use lures like Clouser Minnows in white or chartreuse, or try Lefty's Deceiver. For trout, look to streamers and experiment with different lines. Yellow perch can be caught using small jigs or live bait like minnows or worms.

### Hot Spots
Shelburne Bay, just south of Burlington, is a prime spot for largemouth bass. For lake trout, the middle section of the main lake, from roughly Westport to Cumberland Head, offers excellent deep structure. Bulwagga Bay near the south end of the lake is a popular spot for yellow perch.

Remember to prioritize safety, wear a PFD, check the weather forecast, and let someone know your plans and expected return time. Enjoy your day on Lake Champlain