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Premium Lake Champlain Fishing Adventure
- Published Date: July 17, 2025
- Fishing
- Lake Champlain
- $325 - $700 price range
Summary
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Champlain Catches
A big Smallmouth Bass caught with some clever fishing techniques!
Hooked a tasty smallmouth bass at the lake today!
A beautiful Smallmouth Bass reeled in from the waters of Peru, NY!
Reel in the Big Ones: Lake Champlain PM Fishing Trip
Ready to tackle some of the best freshwater fishing in the country? Hop aboard with Irish Raider Outfitters for a 4-hour afternoon or sunset trip on Lake Champlain. We'll hit the hotspots where the fish are biting, targeting everything from hard-fighting smallmouth bass to trophy lake trout. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just getting your feet wet, our expert guides will make sure you have a blast on the water and maybe even land the catch of a day. Let's get out there and see what's biting!
What to Expect on the Water
As soon as we push off from the dock, you'll feel the excitement in the air. Lake Champlain is a fisherman's paradise, and we know just where to find the action. We'll cruise to some prime fishing grounds, switching up techniques based on what's working. You might be casting for smallies along rocky shorelines one minute, then trolling deep water for lakers the next. Our boat is fully equipped with top-notch gear, fish finders, and all the tackle you'll need. Don't worry if you're new to fishing – we'll show you the ropes and have you reeling 'em in like a pro in no time. And let's not forget those Lake Champlain sunsets – they're worth the trip alone!
Fishing Techniques & Hotspots
We've got a few tricks up our sleeves to put you on fish. For bass, we might start with some topwater action early in the trip, switching to jigs or drop-shot rigs as the sun gets lower. If we're after pike, get ready to chuck some big spinnerbaits or troll with crankbaits. Lake trout fishing often means downriggers and dodgers with flashy spoons. We'll hit some local honey holes – maybe the underwater humps near Valcour Island for smallmouth, or the deep trenches off Burlington for lakers. Every day is different on Champlain, and that's what keeps it exciting. We're always adapting our approach to give you the best shot at a memorable catch.
Species You'll Want to Hook
Smallmouth Bass: These bronzebacks are the bread and butter of Lake Champlain fishing. They're aggressive fighters that'll test your skills and your gear. Look for them around rocky points and drop-offs. A 3-4 pounder is a nice catch, but don't be surprised if you tangle with a 5+ pound brute. They're most active in summer, but you can catch them from spring through fall.
Northern Pike: The toothy predators of Champlain, pike are ambush hunters that'll smash your lure without warning. They love weedy bays and can grow huge in these waters. A 30-incher will give you a thrill, but 40+ inch monsters aren't unheard of. Spring and fall are prime pike seasons, but we catch them year-round.
Lake Trout: These deep-water battlers are a Champlain specialty. They're hard-fighting and great eating if you want to keep one for the grill. Lakers typically hang in cooler, deeper water, so we'll often target them with downriggers. The average catch might be 3-5 pounds, but 10+ pounders show up regularly. Spring and fall are best, but summer can be good if you know where to look.
Largemouth Bass: While Champlain's better known for smallies, the largemouth fishing can be stellar too. These guys love weedy cover and docks. A 4-pounder is a great catch, but 6+ pound fish are possible. They're most active in warmer months, from late spring through early fall. Topwater action on a calm evening can be absolutely electric.
Top Catches This Season
It's been a banner year on Lake Champlain, with some real monsters coming to the net. We've had clients land smallmouth over 6 pounds, pike pushing 45 inches, and lake trout in the teens. But it's not just about size – the action has been steady, with many trips hitting double-digit numbers on bass. One group last week had a 50-fish day between four anglers! Whether you're after quantity or quality, Champlain's been delivering the goods.
Why Anglers Keep Coming Back
There's something special about fishing Lake Champlain that keeps folks coming back year after year. Maybe it's the variety – where else can you catch four different gamefish species in a single afternoon? Or it could be the stunning scenery, with the Adirondacks on one side and the Green Mountains on the other. For many, it's the chance to tangle with some seriously big fish in a freshwater setting. And let's be honest, those picture-perfect sunset trips, where the bass are blowing up on topwater as the sky turns golden – that's the stuff fishing dreams are made of. Whatever brings you here, we're betting you'll leave planning your next trip.
Time to Book Your Spot
Ready to experience some of the best fishing Lake Champlain has to offer? Our 4-hour PM trips are perfect for both serious anglers and families looking for a fun afternoon on the water. We provide all the gear, knowhow, and local insights to put you on fish. Remember, the big one's always out there waiting – why not make today the day you catch it? Give us a call or book online to reserve your spot. And if you're planning to bring kids along, be sure to let Guide Scott Thurber know at 518-523-4275. We'll make sure everyone has a blast, from the youngest rookie to the most seasoned pro. Don't wait – the fish are biting, and your next big catch is just a cast away on Lake Champlain!
Learn more about the species
Lake Trout
Lake trout are the cold-water giants of Lake Champlain. These deep-dwelling char can top 20 pounds, though most run 5-15 pounds. They prefer temperatures below 55°F, so look deep - often 50-100 feet down near underwater structures. Spring and fall are prime as they move shallower. Lakers are known for their hard-fighting ability and stamina. The challenge of finding and catching them in deep water is a big draw for many anglers. Their rich, orange flesh is prized for eating too. Jigging with large spoons or soft plastics is effective. A local tip: troll flashy lures near steep drop-offs, varying your depth until you find the fish. Be patient - it can take time to locate lakers, but the reward is worth it. There's nothing quite like feeling that heavy thump when a big lake trout hits your line in Champlain's cool depths.
Largemouth Bass
Largemouth bass are a top target for many Lake Champlain anglers. These bucket-mouths typically run 2-5 pounds but can reach over 8 pounds. Look for them in weedy areas, around docks, and near fallen trees in 5-15 feet of water. They're most active in warmer months, especially during dawn and dusk. Largemouths are known for their aggressive strikes and acrobatic fights - you'll often see them leap clear out of the water. Anglers love targeting them for their predictable patterns and the excitement of topwater strikes. Try weedless frogs or buzzbaits over grass beds for explosive action. A local secret is flipping jigs under docks on sunny afternoons. Whether you're a beginner or pro, largemouth bass offer consistent fun and the chance at a real trophy on Champlain. Just be ready when that big one decides to hit!
Northern Pike
Northern pike are the apex predators of Lake Champlain. These toothy ambush hunters average 24-34 inches but can reach over 4 feet. Look for pike in weedy bays, inlets, and marshy shallows, especially in spring and fall. They move deeper in summer when water warms. Pike are aggressive and not picky eaters - they'll attack just about anything that moves. The fight is spectacular, with powerful runs and acrobatic leaps. Use a steel leader to prevent bite-offs from those razor-sharp teeth. For the best shot at a trophy, try large spoons or swimbaits that mimic injured baitfish. A slow, steady retrieve often triggers strikes. Pike fishing is most productive in low light or overcast conditions. Handle with care and watch those teeth! The excitement of battling these freshwater wolves keeps anglers coming back for more.
Smallmouth Bass
Smallmouth bass are a favorite among anglers on Lake Champlain. These fighters typically run 1-4 pounds and love rocky areas and drop-offs. Look for them around points, ledges, and submerged structure in 5-30 feet of water. They're most active in spring and fall when water temps are cooler. Smallies put up an impressive fight for their size - you'll feel those head shakes! Their firm white meat also makes great table fare. For the best action, try throwing tube jigs or crankbaits that mimic crayfish. A local trick is to fish parallel to the shoreline, working your lure from shallow to deep. The bite is often best on cloudy days or low light conditions. Whether you're after a trophy or just want steady action, smallmouth bass offer an exciting challenge on Champlain.
