As of October 2, 2024, here’s a local’s perspective on the fishing scene at Lake Champlain:

The weather today is expected to be partly cloudy with a high of around 65 degrees Fahrenheit and a low of 50 degrees. Sunrise was at 6:54 AM, and sunset will be at 6:24 PM. Lake Champlain, being a large freshwater lake, does not have tides, so you don’t need to worry about tidal changes.

Yesterday saw a decent amount of fish activity, particularly for bass and chain pickerel. Anglers reported success using wacky worms in the grass patches throughout the lake. The bass were quite active, especially in areas with submerged vegetation. Chain pickerel were also abundant, often caught in the same spots as the bass.

For bass fishing, the top lures included soft plastics like wacky worms and curly tail grubs. Jigs, especially those with a swim bait trailer, were also effective. If you're targeting largemouth bass, areas around the lake's many islands and weed beds are hot spots. The northern part of the lake, near the Canadian border, has been producing some nice catches as well.

For those looking to catch other species, walleye and northern pike are also present in the lake. Walleye can be caught using live bait such as minnows or leeches, especially in deeper waters. Northern pike are often found in the weed beds and can be caught using spoons or large spinnerbaits.

Some hot spots to consider include the areas around Grand Isle and the Missisquoi Bay. These regions offer a mix of weed beds, rocky shores, and submerged structures that attract a variety of fish species.

Overall, it's a great time to be out on Lake Champlain, with the cooler weather bringing the fish into more active feeding patterns. Just remember to check the local fishing regulations and respect the environment to ensure sustainable fishing practices.