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Expert Lake Champlain Fishing | Reel Vermont

  • Published Date: July 17, 2025
  • Fishing
  • Lake Champlain
  • $475 - $575 price range
  • Updated Date: October 31, 2025

Summary

Looking for a great way to spend a weekend morning on Lake Champlain? Join Captain Seth from Reel Vermont Guide Service for a half-day fishing trip packed with action. You'll cast lines for a mix of fish including tarpon, northern pike, largemouth bass, and even the prehistoric-looking alligator gar. With room for up to 6 anglers, it's perfect for small groups or families. The calm morning waters offer ideal conditions, whether you're an experienced fisherman or trying it for the first time. Captain Seth knows all the local hotspots and will share tips to help you land the big one. You'll also get to enjoy the natural beauty of Lake Champlain as you cruise to different fishing grounds. It's a relaxed yet productive outing that lets you experience some of the best angling the lake has to offer. Grab your hat and sunscreen - the fish are biting!
Expert Lake Champlain Fishing | Reel Vermont

Lake Champlain Catches

Lake Champlain's Weekend Fish Fest

Hey there, fellow fishing enthusiasts! Ready to kick off your weekend with a splash? Our half-day guided trips on Lake Champlain are just the ticket. We're talking prime fishing grounds, expert know-how, and a boatload of fun – all before lunchtime. Whether you're looking to land your first big catch or add to your angling trophy case, we've got you covered. So grab your hat and sunscreen, and let's hit the water for some serious rod-bending action!

What's the Deal?

Picture this: You're out on the glassy waters of Lake Champlain as the sun peeks over the horizon. The air is crisp, the coffee's hot, and the fish are biting. That's what you're in for with our weekend morning trips. We'll cruise to the hottest spots, targeting everything from hard-fighting Northern Pike to tasty Redfish. Captain Seth knows this lake like the back of his hand, so you're in for a real treat. We've got room for up to six anglers, so bring your buddies or make some new ones. Just remember, the early bird gets the worm – or in this case, the fish!

Rods, Reels, and Techniques

Now, let's talk shop. We're not just casting and hoping here – we're using tried-and-true techniques to put you on the fish. Depending on what's biting, we might be trolling for pike, working the weedlines for bass, or sight-casting to cruising reds. We provide all the gear you'll need, from top-notch rods and reels to the latest in fish-finding tech. But here's a pro tip: bring a camera. You'll want proof when you're telling your buddies about the monster you landed (or the one that got away).

Species You'll Want to Hook

Largemouth Bass: These bucket-mouths are the rockstars of Lake Champlain. They love to hang out near structure and put up a fight that'll have you grinning from ear to ear. Spring and early summer are prime time, but these guys bite year-round. There's nothing quite like watching a big ol' largemouth explode on a topwater lure!

Black Drum: Don't let their ugly mugs fool you – these bruisers are a blast to catch. They've got a weird little beard (barbels) that helps them root out crabs and other tasty morsels from the bottom. When you hook one, it's like trying to reel in a cement block. Best part? They're fantastic on the grill if you decide to keep one for dinner.

Redfish: Also known as red drum, these copper-colored beauties are a favorite among our guests. They've got a distinctive black spot on their tail, which is why old-timers call 'em spot-tails. Redfish are known for their strong runs and stubborn fights. When conditions are right, we might even spot them tailing in the shallows – it's sight-fishing at its finest!

Northern Pike: These toothy critters are the wolves of Lake Champlain. Long, lean, and mean, pike are ambush predators that'll smash your lure without mercy. They're most active in cooler water, so spring and fall are your best bets. Just watch those fingers when you're unhooking them – their teeth are no joke!

Freshwater Drum: Locals call 'em sheepshead, and they're an underrated catch. These silver-sided fighters can grow to hefty sizes and put up a surprisingly good scrap. They make a grunting sound when caught, which is pretty cool. While they're not the prettiest fish in the lake, they're abundant and fun to catch, especially for kids or newbies looking to bend a rod.

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

Let me tell you, there's something special about fishing Lake Champlain. Maybe it's the way the mountains reflect off the water on a calm morning. Or maybe it's the rush you get when your line suddenly goes tight. Our regulars rave about the variety – where else can you catch northern species like pike alongside southern favorites like redfish? Plus, with Captain Seth at the helm, you're not just fishing; you're learning. He's always got a new trick up his sleeve or a wild fish story to share. And hey, nothing beats the feeling of reeling in your personal best while the rest of the world is still hitting the snooze button.

Time to Book Your Spot

Alright, let's cut to the chase – if you're itching to get out on Lake Champlain and tangle with some serious fish, now's the time to lock in your trip. Our weekend morning charters fill up fast, especially during peak seasons. Whether you're a die-hard angler or just looking for a fun way to start your weekend, we've got you covered. So what are you waiting for? Grab your spot, round up your crew, and get ready for some rod-bending, drag-screaming action. Trust me, your only regret will be not booking sooner. Let's make some waves and memories on Lake Champlain!

Learn more about the species

Black Drum

Black drum are the big bruisers of the drum family, averaging 5-30 pounds but sometimes topping 90 pounds. Look for them in Lake Champlain's shallow, brackish areas near oyster beds and other shellfish hangouts. They use those powerful jaws and teeth to crush mollusks, so listen for their distinctive drumming sounds. Spring is prime time as they school up to spawn. Anglers enjoy battling these bulldogs for their strong, steady fights. For eating, stick to smaller drum under 15 pounds - the big ones get tough and lose flavor. To land one, use fresh crab or clam on a circle hook. Let it sit on the bottom and wait for that telltale thump. When you feel weight, reel steady and hang on tight. These fish don't quit easily, so be ready for a workout.

Black Drum

Freshwater Drum

Freshwater drum, also called sheepshead, are an underrated catch in Lake Champlain. Most run 10-14 inches and 1-8 pounds, but monsters over 20 pounds are possible. Look for them near the bottom in clear, shallow areas with some vegetation. They're active all year but really pick up in summer. Drum get their name from the grunting sounds males make during spawning. Anglers enjoy catching them for their hard fights and abundance - 50+ fish days aren't uncommon. To land one, use a simple bottom rig with nightcrawlers or crayfish tails. When you feel that tell-tale thump, set the hook and enjoy the fight. Drum pull hard for their size. While not known as great table fare, smaller ones can be tasty if prepared right. They're fun and plentiful - perfect for introducing kids to fishing.

Freshwater Drum

Largemouth Bass

Largemouth bass are the heavyweights of the sunfish family, typically running 1-4 pounds but capable of hitting 10+ pounds. You'll find them lurking around structure in shallow, weedy areas of Lake Champlain. These ambush predators have a huge mouth (hence the name) and will strike just about any lure that mimics their prey. Spring and fall are prime seasons when bass are most active. Anglers love targeting largemouth for their aggressive strikes and acrobatic fights. To entice a bite, try working a plastic worm slowly along the bottom near docks, fallen trees, or weed edges. When you feel that telltale "thump," set the hook hard - these fish have tough mouths. Largemouth put up a great battle and make for some exciting catch-and-release action on light tackle.

Largemouth Bass

Northern Pike

Northern pike are the toothy terrors of Lake Champlain. These aggressive predators average 2-3 feet but can top 4 feet and 30 pounds. Look for them in cool, weedy shallows near drop-offs. Spring and fall are prime pike seasons when water temps are cooler. Anglers love targeting pike for their savage strikes and powerful fights. Be careful handling them though - those teeth are no joke. To land a big one, try a large spoon or inline spinner retrieved slowly near weed edges. Let it pause occasionally to trigger strikes. When you feel that hit, set the hook hard and hang on tight. Pike often make several strong runs before coming to the net. Use a steel leader to prevent bite-offs. Pike make for some exciting catch-and-release action on medium-heavy tackle.

Northern Pike

Redfish

Redfish, also called red drum, are a Lake Champlain favorite. Look for them in super shallow water, often with their backs exposed. They love hanging around oyster reefs, grass flats, and mud bottoms in 1-4 feet of water. Most run 28-33 inches, but trophy reds can hit 45 inches and 50 pounds. Fall is prime time as they school up. Anglers love sight-casting to tailing reds - it's like hunting. They put up a great fight and taste fantastic too. That signature tail spot helps them dodge predators. To catch one, try a gold spoon or scented soft plastic on a light jighead. Work it slowly along the bottom, almost bouncing it. When you see that telltale wake, get ready for an explosive strike. Just remember to release the big breeders to keep the population healthy.

Redfish

About the RVGS Motorboat

Company vehicle

Vehicle Guest Capacity: 6

Manufacturer Name: Suzuki

Maximum Cruising Speed: 50

Number of Engines: 1

Horsepower per Engine: 250

Get ready for a relaxing morning on the water with Captain Seth as your guide. Our spacious boat comfortably fits up to 6 people, perfect for a small group or family outing. We'll cruise the calm waters of Lake Champlain, seeking out prime fishing spots for a variety of species. Try your hand at catching Tarpon, Northern Pike, Largemouth Bass, and more. Don't worry if you're new to fishing - the captain will share tips and tricks to help you land the big one. Soak in the peaceful lake views while you wait for a bite. With all the gear provided and an expert at the helm, you can focus on enjoying the experience and maybe even bringing home dinner. It's a great way to start your weekend and make some lasting memories on the water.
Reel Vermont Guide Service

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Experience Lake Champlain fishing from the best, Guide Seth Meunier, with Reel Vermont Guide Service.

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Caught a Largemouth Bass while fishing in Burlington

The lake is calling.

Two anglers fishing in Vermont

Serenity is a cast away.

Two people fishing in Vermont

Just me, my rod, and the lake.

3 people fishing in Burlington

Hook, line, and chill.

3 anglers fishing in Burlington

Lines in the water, stress out of mind.

Fishing for a smallmouth bass in VT

Peaceful casts, happy hearts.

One angler fishing in VT

Lake Champlain vibes only.

A person fishing for a common carp in Burlington

Fishing mode: ON.

Angler fishing in Burlington

Time flies when you’re fishing.

Two people fishing in Burlington.

Lake life is the best life.

Caught a Largemouth Bass while fishing in Burlington

The lake is calling.

Two anglers fishing in Vermont

Serenity is a cast away.

Two people fishing in Vermont

Just me, my rod, and the lake.

3 people fishing in Burlington

Hook, line, and chill.

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