%2Ffit-in%2F250x250%2Fusers%2F81b10169-d6da-4535-b20d-a508d6758d05%2Fimages%2F063ab942-c5e7-4a82-9bbb-e2809af47ecf.jpg&w=1200&q=100)
Smallmouth Bass Charter on Lake Champlain
Smallmouth Bass Fishing in Lake Champlain
%2F%2Fusers%2F81b10169-d6da-4535-b20d-a508d6758d05%2Fimages%2Fsmallmouth-bass-peru-ny-7327.png&w=1200&q=75)
The Smallmouth Bass belongs to the order Perciformes and family Centrarchidae. It typically measures between 12 and 27 inches in length, with a weight range from 1 to 4 lbs. - Habitat includes lakes and rivers with rocky structure. - Popular gamefish known for aggressive strikes and acrobatic fights.
Fishing Charter by Captain Scott Thurber in August
Meet your Captain Scott Thurber
- Fish and Hunt in Lake Champlain and Adirondacks
Summary
Captain Scott Thurber of Irish Raider Outfitters LLC on Sunday June offers guided fishing charters on Lake Champlain, one of the top freshwater fisheries in the USA. This half-day afternoon charter targets smallmouth bass, lake trout, largemouth bass, and northern pike using proven techniques like jigging, trolling, and topwater fishing. With stained water conditions from recent storms, your experienced guide adapts tactics to find active fish in the best spots. Lake Champlain's diverse structure and seasonal patterns make it ideal for both beginner and experienced anglers looking for quality freshwater fishing near Cumberland Head.
Fishing Charter with Captain Scott Thurber – Rates & Booking
Captain Scott Thurber of Irish Raider Outfitters LLC on Sunday June runs half-day afternoon fishing trips targeting Lake Champlain's premier gamefish. This 4-hour charter accommodates up to 4 guests and includes all fishing gear, tackle, and local expertise. Deposits are non-refundable, and families with children should contact Captain Thurber directly at 518-523-4275 before booking. The afternoon timing takes advantage of prime feeding periods when smallmouth bass move shallow and lake trout become more active in deeper waters.
Highlights of Half Day Afternoon Fishing Trip On Lake Champlain - Trout, Bass And Pike
Lake Champlain offers exceptional diversity with smallmouth bass haunts, lake trout structure, and northern pike cover all within reach. Recent trips have produced quality smallmouth bass on topwater lures and jerkbaits, even when water conditions challenge traditional sight fishing. The lake's varied depth and structure mean multiple species opportunities on every trip, from shallow bass fishing to deep water lake trout jigging.
Captain Thurber's local knowledge shines when adapting to changing conditions—switching from lake trout jigging to smallmouth bass tactics based on fish activity and weather patterns. The afternoon and sunset timing provides comfortable temperatures and often spectacular scenery as you fish Lake Champlain's productive waters.
Local Species Insights: Smallmouth Bass
Smallmouth bass in Lake Champlain are known for their aggressive strikes and acrobatic fights, making them a favorite target for visiting anglers. These bronze-backed fighters inhabit rocky points, drop-offs, and weed edges throughout the lake's 120-mile length. During June, smallmouth bass are transitioning from spawning areas to summer feeding patterns, making them accessible to various techniques from topwater action to deeper presentations. The lake's clear northern waters and abundant forage base produce healthy, hard-fighting smallmouth bass that test your tackle and skills.
Plan Your Fishing Charter Day
Your half-day charter includes all necessary fishing equipment, tackle, and guidance from Captain Thurber's years of Lake Champlain experience. The boat accommodates up to 4 anglers comfortably, with safety equipment and local knowledge ensuring a productive day on the water. Afternoon departures allow for flexible morning schedules while taking advantage of prime fishing times as the day progresses toward sunset. Contact the captain directly regarding any special needs or questions about bringing children on your Lake Champlain fishing adventure.
Fishing in Lake Champlain: Smallmouth Bass
Smallmouth Bass (Micropterus dolomieu) belongs to the Sunfish family Centrarchidae and ranks among North America's most sought-after freshwater gamefish. These bronze-backed fighters display dark green to black coloration with distinctive vertical brown stripes that fade with age, and their red to brown eyes make them easily recognizable. In Lake Champlain waters this June, smallmouth bass are transitioning from spawning to summer feeding patterns.
Smallmouth Bass Overview
Smallmouth bass are prized by anglers for their pound-for-pound fighting ability and acrobatic jumps when hooked. They inhabit clear, cool waters with rocky structure, making Lake Champlain an ideal environment. These fish prefer temperatures between 60-75°F and are most active during dawn, dusk, and overcast conditions.
Smallmouth Bass Habitat and Distribution
In Lake Champlain, smallmouth bass thrive around rocky points, drop-offs, boulder fields, and weed edges. They prefer depths from 5-25 feet during summer months, moving deeper in winter. The lake's diverse structure from Cumberland Head to the Canadian border provides excellent smallmouth habitat with plenty of crayfish, minnows, and insects for forage.
Smallmouth Bass Size and Weight
Lake Champlain smallmouth bass typically range from 12-27 inches, weighing 1-4 pounds. Trophy fish over 20 inches are common, with some specimens reaching 5+ pounds. The lake's abundant forage base and clean water produce healthy, thick-bodied fish that fight harder than their size suggests.
Smallmouth Bass Diet and Behavior
Smallmouth bass are opportunistic predators feeding on crayfish, minnows, insects, and leeches. They hunt actively during low-light periods and become more selective during bright conditions. In summer, they often suspend over deep water structure, making them accessible to various fishing techniques from topwater to deep presentations.
Smallmouth Bass Spawning Season
Spawning occurs in late spring when water temperatures reach 60-65°F, typically May through early June in Lake Champlain. Males build nests in shallow, rocky areas and guard eggs aggressively. Post-spawn fish move to deeper structure and resume active feeding, making early summer an excellent time for consistent action.
Smallmouth Bass Fishing Techniques
Effective techniques include topwater lures at dawn and dusk, jerkbaits over suspended fish, and jigs around rocky structure. Tube jigs, spinnerbaits, and crankbaits work well throughout the season. In June around Cumberland Head, anglers find success with topwater action early and late, switching to deeper presentations during midday periods.
Smallmouth Bass Is It Good to Eat?
Smallmouth bass offer excellent table fare with firm, white meat and mild flavor. They're high in protein and omega-3 fatty acids while being relatively low in mercury. Popular cooking methods include grilling, baking, and pan-frying, though many anglers practice catch-and-release to preserve this valuable fishery.
Smallmouth Bass Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best bait for smallmouth bass?
A: Live crayfish, tube jigs, and topwater lures are top choices. Match your presentation to the conditions and structure you're fishing.
Q: Where can I find smallmouth bass near Cumberland Head?
A: Focus on rocky points, drop-offs, and weed edges in 10-25 feet of water. Structure changes and current breaks hold the most fish.
Q: Is smallmouth bass good to eat?
A: Yes, smallmouth bass have excellent flavor with firm, white meat. They're nutritious and versatile for various cooking methods.
Q: When is the best time to catch smallmouth bass?
A: Early morning, late evening, and overcast days provide the best action. Summer months offer consistent fishing once post-spawn patterns establish.
More species you can explore on this trip
Irish Raider Outfitters LLC Available Trips
Picture yourself gliding across the pristine waters of Lake Champlain in a comfortable, well-equipped fishing boat. This spacious vessel comfortably seats up to four guests, perfect for a small group of friends or family. While the exact model isn't specified, you can expect a sturdy, reliable craft designed for a smooth ride and easy fishing access. The boat likely features ample deck space for casting, comfortable seating, and storage for your gear and catch. It's probably outfitted with top-notch fishing electronics to help locate the best spots for trout, bass, and pike. With safety equipment on board and an experienced captain at the helm, you'll be all set for a relaxing afternoon chasing fish on one of America's most beautiful lakes. Whether you're an experienced angler or new to fishing, this boat provides the perfect platform for a memorable day on Lake Champlain.
