Ready to spend a full day chasing some of Lake Champlain's most prized catches? Our 8-hour private charter is your ticket to landing Atlantic Salmon, Lake Trout, and Pike-Perch in one of the Northeast's top fishing destinations. With room for up to 4 anglers, expert guidance, and all the gear you need, this trip is perfect for serious fishermen and families alike. Let's dive into what makes this outing a can't-miss experience for any angler visiting Vermont.
As soon as you step aboard our well-equipped fishing vessel, you'll know you're in for a treat. We'll cruise out onto Lake Champlain's crystal-clear waters, surrounded by the stunning Green Mountains and Adirondacks. Our seasoned captain will take you straight to the hotspots where the big ones are biting. You'll spend the day trolling for monster fish, with plenty of time to perfect your technique and hopefully land that trophy catch you've been dreaming about. And don't worry about licenses – we've got you covered. Just bring your favorite snacks, some drinks to stay hydrated, and get ready for a full 8 hours of pure fishing bliss.
On this trip, we'll be using expert trolling techniques to target Lake Champlain's most sought-after game fish. If you're new to trolling, don't sweat it – our guides will show you the ropes. We'll be using downriggers and planer boards to get our lures down to where the fish are hanging out. You'll learn how to read the fish finder, adjust your presentation based on water temperature and depth, and master the art of setting the hook when a big one strikes. We provide all the gear you need, including top-of-the-line rods, reels, and a variety of lures that the local fish can't resist. From flashy spoons for salmon to deep-diving crankbaits for lake trout, we've got the arsenal to put you on fish all day long.
Lake Champlain is home to some real trophy fish, and on this trip, we're targeting three of the best. Let's break down what you can expect from each species:
Atlantic Salmon: These silver bullets are the crown jewel of Lake Champlain fishing. Known for their acrobatic fights and delicious flavor, Atlantic Salmon in the lake can reach up to 10 pounds or more. They're most active in the cooler months, so spring and fall are prime time for these beauties. When a salmon hits your line, get ready for an adrenaline rush – they're known for their spectacular jumps and long runs that'll test your skills.
Lake Trout: The true giants of Lake Champlain, lake trout can grow to over 20 pounds in these waters. These deep-dwelling predators are a year-round target, but they're especially fun to catch in the summer when they retreat to the cooler depths. Jigging for lakers in 100+ feet of water is an experience you won't forget. When you hook into one of these bruisers, it's like fighting a submarine – they use their size and the deep water to their advantage, making for an epic battle.
Pike-Perch (Walleye): Don't let the name fool you – these aren't your average perch. Pike-perch, also known as walleye, are prized for their tasty fillets and the challenge they present to anglers. They've got a mouth full of teeth and can grow up to 10 pounds in Lake Champlain. These fish are most active during low-light conditions, so early morning and late evening can be magic hours for walleye fishing. Their strike is subtle, but once hooked, they put up a respectable fight that'll keep you on your toes.
There's something special about fishing Lake Champlain that keeps anglers coming back year after year. Maybe it's the thrill of battling a trophy salmon as it leaps clear out of the water. Or perhaps it's the satisfaction of jigging up a monster lake trout from the depths. For many, it's the peaceful moments between catches, taking in the breathtaking scenery of the surrounding mountains reflected in the lake's surface. Whatever draws you in, one thing's for sure – a day on Lake Champlain with Trout Scout Charters is more than just fishing. It's a chance to disconnect from the daily grind, bond with family and friends, and create memories that'll last a lifetime. Plus, with our expert guides handling all the details, you can focus on what really matters – enjoying world-class fishing in one of the most beautiful settings imaginable.
Every season brings its share of exciting catches on Lake Champlain, and this year has been no exception. We've seen some real monsters come aboard, including a 32-inch lake trout that tipped the scales at over 18 pounds – a true fish of a lifetime for the lucky angler who landed it. Atlantic salmon fishing has been on fire, with multiple fish in the 8-10 pound range giving our guests the fights of their lives. And let's not forget about the walleye – we've had several in the 28-30 inch range, perfect for a fish fry back at camp (if you can bring yourself to keep them, that is). These trophy catches aren't just luck – they're the result of our guides' deep knowledge of the lake and years of experience putting clients on fish. Who knows? Your name might be next on the Trout Scout Charters wall of fame.
If you're itching to get out on Lake Champlain and try your luck at landing some trophy fish, now's the time to lock in your date. Our 8-hour private charters are popular, especially during peak seasons, so don't wait until the last minute. Whether you're a seasoned angler looking to add some Lake Champlain monsters to your list, or a family wanting to experience the joy of fishing together, this trip has something for everyone. Remember, we take care of the licenses, provide all the gear, and our expert guides will work tirelessly to put you on fish. All you need to do is show up ready for an unforgettable day on the water. So what are you waiting for? Give us a call or book online today, and get ready to make some serious fishing memories on Lake Champlain. Trust us, once you've experienced fishing with Trout Scout Charters, you'll be planning your next trip before you even get back to the dock.
Lake trout are the big boys of the char family, often hitting 15-40 pounds with some real monsters out there. They love cold, deep water, so we usually find them suspended in the middle of the lake basin. Spring's a prime time to target them, right after ice-out when they're in shallower water. These fish aren't fans of bright light, so overcast days are your friend. Jigging's the way to go - try a Rapala Jigging Rap or something that mimics a wounded baitfish. Lake trout put up a great fight, especially when you're pulling them up from the depths. They're also fantastic eating if you're into that. One local tip: if you're fishing deep, use fluorocarbon leader. It's nearly invisible underwater and can make a big difference when these fish are being picky.
Lake Champlain's got some hefty lake trout, typically ranging from 24 to 36 inches. These cold-water lovers hang out in the deeper parts of the lake, especially during summer when they're trying to beat the heat. Spring's a great time to target them, right after ice-out when they're in shallower waters. They're not big fans of bright light, so overcast days are prime time. Jigging's your best bet - try a Rapala Jigging Rap or a soft plastic swimbait on a jig head. Lake trout put up a serious fight, especially when you're pulling them up from the depths. They're also great eating if you're into that. Here's a local trick: if you're fishing deep, use fluorocarbon leader. It's nearly invisible underwater and can make all the difference when these fish are being picky.
Pike-perch, or zander, are the largest in the perch family, with a torpedo shape that helps them zip through the water. They've got powerful jaws and love to munch on smaller fish. You'll usually find them in murky freshwater, often near boat traffic where they can snag some leftover trout or salmon. These guys can grow up to 39 inches, but 20 inches is more common. They're fun to catch because they put up a good fight and have tasty, light meat with few bones. Best time to fish for them is when the water's a bit murky - they love that. Here's a tip: use dead bait or lures that aren't too lively. Pike-perch prefer an easy meal and might shy away from bait that's thrashing around too much.
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 4
Manufacturer Name: Mercury
Maximum Cruising Speed: 30
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 150