Lake Champlain © BGS

About the Lake:

Lake Champlain is the sixth largest freshwater lake in the continental United States. It is also a prime bass fishing destination once the season opens in both New York and Vermont. Although Smallmouth are the the lake's premier game fish, there are plenty of largemouth and lots of good habitat for either species. In fact, some experts admit that there are portions of the lake where fish have never seen an artificial lure. It stretches 110 miles from the Canadian border south to Whitehall, NY. It is also 12 miles wide at the widest section. Smallies tend to favor the the colder waters of the northern end above the city of Burlington. Before you think about targeting smallies you have to remember that most of the Red Man or local bass tournaments are run out of South Bay or Ticonderoga. Well, thats a 60+ mile ride and hardly worth it. Considering also that when the wind kicks up you'll think you're in the ocean.

When, Where and with What to fish:

The majority of the Red Man and local tournament fishermen concentrate on the southern portion of the lake. As I said before, that's because the majority of the local tournaments are run out of South Bay and Ticonderoga on the Southwest portion of the lake. South Bay is near the town of Whithall while Ticonderoga is near the town of the same name. This section of the Lake runs from South Bay up to Port Henry and covers approximately 30 miles. This section of lake has just about every form of structure that you can imagine: rip rap, weeds, pads, bluffs, blow downs, etc. This is probably why not too many fishermen venture out of the river. It is also a lot calmer than the main section of the lake since not too many large vessels travel the river route. So if you have a small boat you are just as well to stay in the river. Most tournament veterans that fish the Lake like to head north to get away from the masses. They know that the fish in the river get beat up bad during pre-fishing.
If you want to find out the best community holes buy a Fishing Hot Spots Map of the Lake. Get the South Section. Map # M496. See the map page for their number. The river averages 18 feet in the channel. And remember, although you are traveling from South Bay to Port Henry, keep the green can buoys to your starboard (right hand side). Since Lake Champlain is fed from the Ocean you are considered returning from the sea when you are traveling South. Remember red right return. Anyway, the best lures to use are: Jerkbaits (suspending rogues), spinnerbaits (chartreuse), Pop-R, the Rat, Jig n Pig, 4 and 6 inch worms, weed jig, Carolina rig, and Buzzbaits.

Where to stay:

There are at least 5 motels in the Ticonderoga area and a few restaurants to take care of the appetite. There are also a few gas stations and mini marts for ice and other essentials. The prices are all about the same.

Guide Service:

Guide service provided by Bill's Guide Service.

Other Information:

Click here for some info on Lake Champlain.

By the way, remember to buy a Vermont fishing license in addition to the New York license. It is required if you are going to fish the Vermont side.

For more information on the lake call the Lake Champlain Regional Chamber of Commerce at: 802-863-3489. This is located in Burlington Vermont.

The lake is very clear thanks to the zebra mussels. Check your line often because these shell fish will cut your line in a heart beat. Especially, if you are fishing in the weeds and along rocky banks where they love to adhere.