Fresh WorldClass Smallmouth Bass Fishing Cumberland Head

Chasing Bronzebacks on Lake Champlains Cumberland Head

Smallmouth bass caught while jigging, trolling, ice fishing, bait casting, heavy tackle, light tackle at Lake Champlain

The boat gently rocks on Lake Champlain. Clouds part revealing blue skies. A smallmouth bass breaks the surface. Its bronze scales glisten in the sun. The lure dangles temptingly. The fish strikes with explosive force. The rod bends as the angler battles the powerful creature. Excitement fills the air. The bass jumps clear of the water. It splashes down creating ripples. Finally the fish tires. The net scoops it up. A perfect catch on a perfect day.

Trip lead by the Captain

Scott Thurber

Lake Champlain

Fish and Hunt in Lake Champlain and Adirondacks

Summary

The pristine waters of Lake Champlain near Cumberland Head, New York, offer an exceptional fishing experience for anglers seeking the prized smallmouth bass (Micropterus dolomieu). As you cast your line into the crystal-clear depths, you'll find yourself surrounded by breathtaking scenery and abundant wildlife. The rocky shorelines and submerged structures provide ideal habitats for these hard-fighting fish, known for their acrobatic leaps and tenacious nature. Early mornings and late evenings are prime times to target smallmouth bass, as they become more active during these cooler periods. Topwater lures, soft plastics, and crankbaits are all effective choices when pursuing these bronzebacks. As you navigate the tranquil coves and points of Cumberland Head, keep an eye out for tell-tale signs of bass activity, such as swirls on the water's surface or baitfish scattering near the shore. The area's diverse underwater landscape, including drop-offs, weed beds, and submerged logs, provides numerous opportunities to hook into trophy-sized smallmouth bass. Don't forget to pack appropriate gear, including medium-action rods, 8-10 lb test line, and a variety of lures to match different fishing conditions. With patience and skill, you may find yourself battling a hefty smallmouth bass, feeling the powerful runs and head-shakes that make these fish such a beloved target for anglers. As you reel in your catch, take a moment to appreciate the beauty of Lake Champlain and the thrill of pursuing one of North America's most sought-after gamefish in this picturesque corner of New York.

Scenic Lake Champlain Fishing

The serene waters of Lake Champlain stretch out before us, offering a picturesque backdrop for an unforgettable fishing adventure. From our vantage point at Cumberland Head, NY, we can see the expansive blue waters dotted with small islands and framed by distant mountains. The calm surface of the lake reflects the cloudy sky above, creating a peaceful atmosphere perfect for a day of angling.

Targeting Smallmouth Bass

Our primary quarry today is the Micropterus Dolomieu, better known as the smallmouth bass. These feisty fish thrive in the cool, clear waters of Lake Champlain. As we cast our lines into the inviting depths, we keep an eye out for rocky areas and submerged structures where these bass often lurk, waiting to ambush their prey.

Enjoying the Natural Beauty

While we wait for the fish to bite, we take in the breathtaking scenery surrounding us. The lush green shoreline contrasts beautifully with the deep blue of the lake, creating a stunning panorama. Birds soar overhead, and the gentle lapping of waves against our boat adds to the tranquil experience. Even if the fish aren't biting, the sheer beauty of Lake Champlain makes this outing worthwhile.

Specie explored in this image

Smallmouth Bass

Species Name: Smallmouth Bass

Species Family: Centrarchidae

Species Order: Perciformes

Habitat: Lake, River

Weight: 1 - 4 pounds

Length: 12" - 27"

The Micropterus Dolomieu, commonly known as the smallmouth bass, is a prized game fish that inhabits the freshwater ecosystems of North America. These fish are renowned for their fighting spirit and acrobatic displays when hooked, making them a favorite among anglers. Smallmouth bass have a distinctive appearance with a streamlined, torpedo-shaped body covered in olive-brown to bronze scales that often display dark vertical bars along their sides. Their most notable feature is their large mouth, which extends past the eye when fully opened, giving them their 'bass' moniker. These fish are ambush predators, using their powerful jaws to capture prey such as crayfish, smaller fish, and aquatic insects. They prefer cool, clear waters with rocky or sandy bottoms, often found near underwater structures like fallen trees or rock piles. Smallmouth bass are known for their adaptability, thriving in both rivers and lakes. They exhibit interesting behavior during spawning season, with males constructing nests and fiercely guarding their eggs and fry. This species plays a crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance of freshwater ecosystems and serves as an important indicator of water quality. Their popularity in sport fishing has led to widespread introduction outside their native range, sometimes impacting local ecosystems.

More species you can explore on this trip

Lake Trout

Largemouth Bass

Northern Pike

Smallmouth Bass

A typical offshore fishing charter boat is a spacious 30-35 foot center console vessel designed for both comfort and functionality. It features a wide beam for stability and ample deck space to accommodate multiple anglers. The boat is equipped with state-of-the-art navigation and fish-finding electronics including GPS, radar, and sonar systems. Twin outboard engines provide reliable power and speed to reach distant fishing grounds quickly. The vessel has a sturdy T-top for shade and rod storage along with multiple built-in fish boxes to keep the catch fresh. Comfortable seating is available for passengers during transit and there's usually a small cabin area with basic amenities. Safety equipment includes life jackets marine radio and emergency beacons. Fishing gear typically includes a variety of rods and reels suitable for different target species as well as a live bait well and tackle storage. The boat is maintained to high standards and operated by an experienced captain who knows the local waters and best fishing spots ensuring a safe and productive day on the water for charter clients.

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