Spring Fishing Frenzy on Lake Champlain: Bass, Trout, and More Biting Strong

Lake Champlain is buzzing with angling opportunities this spring morning, April 13, 2025. Sunrise today was at 6:15 AM, and sunset will be at 7:27 PM, giving anglers ample daylight for productive fishing. The weather is ideal, with clear skies and temperatures in the mid-50s (°F). Winds are light, creating calm waters for fishing. While tides don't impact the lake, conditions at this time of year are excellent for targeting both warm- and cold-water species. The water temperature remains cool, which is drawing in pre-spawn bass and increasing activity in trout and salmon.

Recent fishing reports highlight a strong bite across various species. Largemouth and smallmouth bass are staging in shallow rocky areas, particularly in the southern lake near Chimney Point. Anglers are having success with slow-rolled spinnerbaits, crayfish-patterned crankbaits, and swim jigs. Reports suggest skilled anglers could land 50-75 bass in a single trip. The smallmouth bite, in particular, is excellent, with anglers employing jerkbaits, Ned rigs, and drop shot rigs with great success.

For cold-water enthusiasts, lake trout and landlocked salmon are biting well. Lake trout are being caught near deep humps and ledges, particularly in the mid-lake region from Westport to Cumberland Head. Successful techniques include jigging with dead alewife in about 20 feet of water. Salmon are concentrated near tributary mouths like the Winooski and Ausable Rivers, with trolling spoons proving effective.

Northern pike and crappie are also active. Pike are prowling the weedy shallows, especially around South Bay and Bulwagga Bay, where anglers are using large spoons and live bait. Crappie are moving into shallow backwaters to feed, with jigs tipped with minnows yielding good catches.

The top hotspots for today include:
1. **Chimney Point**: Great for largemouth and smallmouth bass as they stage for spawning.
2. **Mid-Lake Deep Structures**: Ideal for lake trout, particularly near ledges and humps.
3. **Mallett’s Bay**: Offers diverse action for bass, panfish, and northern pike.
4. **South Bay and Bulwagga Bay**: Good for northern pike and early-season crappie.

Some of the best baits and lures for current conditions include:
- For bass: Spinnerbaits, Ned rigs, and crankbaits with a touch of chartreuse.
- For lake trout: Dead alewife or large jigging spoons.
- For salmon: Spoons trolled near tributaries.
- For pike and crappie: Large spoons and small jigs tipped with live bait.

With the lake's diversity and ideal conditions, anglers should be prepared for an action-packed day on Lake Champlain. Whether you’re jigging deep structures or working shallow flats, the fish are active, and the opportunities are plenty. Tight lines!