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Lake Champlain Fishing Charter | Reel Vermont
- Published Date: July 16, 2025
- Fishing
- Lake Champlain
- $475 - $575 price range
- Updated Date: October 31, 2025
Summary
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Rods, Reels, and Catches
Lake Champlain's Finest: Half-Day Fishing Adventure
Ready for a fishing trip that'll knock your socks off? Captain Seth's got you covered on Lake Champlain. This ain't your average day on the water - we're talking primo spots for crappie, bass, and a whole bunch of other fish that'll make your reel sing. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, Captain Seth's got the know-how to put you on the fish. And the best part? All the gear's provided, so you can just show up and start casting. Let's dive into what makes this half-day trip a must-do for any angler visiting Vermont.
What's the Deal on the Water?
Picture this: You're out on Lake Champlain, the sun's just coming up, and the water's like glass. That's how your day starts with Captain Seth. This half-day trip is perfect for folks who want to squeeze in some quality fishing without burning a whole day. You'll be targeting a mixed bag of fish - we're talking largemouth bass, crappie, and even the chance at some bigger game like northern pike. The captain knows these waters like the back of his hand, so you're in for some of the best fishing Lake Champlain has to offer. And don't worry about bringing anything - Captain Seth's got all the rods, reels, and bait you'll need. Just bring your A-game and maybe a snack or two.
Fishing 101: Lake Champlain Style
Alright, let's talk tactics. On Lake Champlain, we mix it up depending on what's biting. For bass, we might be tossing soft plastics near structure or working topwater lures in the early morning. Crappie fishing? That's a whole different ballgame. We'll likely be using light tackle and small jigs, maybe even dabbling in some vertical jigging if the fish are schooling deep. And if we're lucky enough to tangle with a northern pike, hold onto your hat - these toothy critters put up one heck of a fight. Captain Seth's always got a few tricks up his sleeve, so even if the fish aren't jumping in the boat, you're sure to learn some new techniques that'll up your fishing game.
Why Folks Can't Stop Talking
Now, I could go on all day about how great this trip is, but let's hear it straight from the horse's mouth. Our regulars keep coming back for good reason. They love the variety of fish, the beautiful scenery, and Captain Seth's laid-back but knowledgeable approach. Many have said it's the highlight of their Vermont vacation. Families especially dig it because kids can get in on the action too - nothing beats seeing a youngster reel in their first big bass. And for the more experienced anglers? They appreciate the captain's willingness to try different techniques and hit those secret spots that only locals know about.
Fish You'll Want to Hook
Let's break down some of the star players you might encounter on your Lake Champlain adventure:
Largemouth Bass: These bruisers are a favorite among anglers for good reason. They put up a great fight and can grow to impressive sizes in Lake Champlain. Spring and early summer are prime times to target them near shoreline structure. There's nothing quite like the explosion of a big largemouth smashing a topwater lure!
Crappie: Don't let their size fool you - these panfish are a blast to catch and taste great too. They school up, so when you find them, it can be non-stop action. Late spring is usually the hot time for crappie, but they can be caught year-round if you know where to look. Light tackle and a sensitive rod are key for feeling those subtle bites.
Northern Pike: Now we're talking about some serious predators. Pike are known for their aggressive strikes and powerful runs. They've got a mouthful of teeth, so handling them requires some skill (don't worry, Captain Seth's got you covered). These guys love cooler water, so early spring and late fall can be prime pike time on Lake Champlain.
Tarpon: Wait, tarpon in Vermont? You bet! Lake Champlain is one of the few freshwater bodies in the world where you can catch these saltwater giants. They're not common, but when you hook into one, it's an experience you'll never forget. Tarpon are known for their acrobatic jumps and can grow to over 100 pounds. Talk about a trophy fish!
Redfish: Another surprise guest in Lake Champlain. These copper-colored beauties are typically found in coastal waters, but they've made a home here too. They're known for their distinctive spot near the tail and put up a great fight on light tackle. Catching a redfish in freshwater is a unique experience that'll give you some serious bragging rights.
Time to Get Your Line Wet
Look, I could keep yapping about fish all day, but the truth is, you've gotta experience this for yourself. Captain Seth's half-day trips on Lake Champlain are the real deal - top-notch fishing, stunning scenery, and memories that'll last a lifetime. Whether you're looking to introduce the kids to fishing, want to improve your skills, or just need a few hours away from the grind, this trip's got you covered. The fish are biting, the boat's ready, and Captain Seth's itching to show you the best Lake Champlain has to offer. So what are you waiting for? Grab your spot now before someone else does. Trust me, your future self will thank you when you're reeling in that monster bass or snappin' pics with your first Lake Champlain tarpon. Let's make it happen!
Learn more about the species
Crappie
Crappie are a blast to catch on Lake Champlain, especially in spring and fall. These pan-sized fish usually run 7-12 inches and hang out in schools around brush piles and fallen trees in 5-15 feet of water. They're most active at dawn and dusk, making for some great low-light fishing. Crappie are known for their light, flaky meat, so they're popular for the dinner table too. To catch them, try a small jig tipped with a minnow or soft plastic under a bobber. Work it slowly around structure, paying attention to subtle bites. Once you find a school, you can often catch a bunch in quick succession. Here's a local tip: on sunny days, look for crappie suspending in the shade of boat docks. A tiny jig dropped straight down often does the trick. Just be ready for their paper-thin mouths - they can shake the hook easily!
Largemouth Bass
Largemouth bass are the heavy hitters of Lake Champlain, typically running 2-4 pounds but can reach 8+ pounds. You'll find them lurking around shallow, weedy areas, especially near fallen trees or docks. These ambush predators are most active in warmer months, but can be caught year-round. Anglers love targeting largemouth for their aggressive strikes and acrobatic fights. They'll hit a variety of lures, but plastic worms are a local favorite. Try slow-rolling a worm along the bottom near cover. When you feel that telltale tap, resist the urge to set the hook immediately. Give the bass a second to fully take the bait, then reel down and sweep the rod to the side. The fight is on! Remember, larger bass are often females full of eggs, so practice catch and release to keep the fishery healthy for years to come.
Northern Pike
Northern pike are the apex predators of Lake Champlain, sleek and toothy with an attitude to match. These "water wolves" average 24-30 inches but can grow much larger. Look for them in weedy bays and along drop-offs, especially in cooler water. Spring and fall are prime pike seasons when they're most active in the shallows. Anglers love pike for their aggressive strikes and powerful fights. They'll hit just about anything that moves, from spoons to large minnow baits. My go-to is a white bucktail spinner, worked just above the weeds. When a pike hits, it's like a freight train - be ready! Use a steel leader to prevent bite-offs, and long-nose pliers for unhooking. Here's a local trick: on windy days, fish the downwind side of points where baitfish get pushed up. Pike often lurk there, ready to ambush an easy meal. Just watch those teeth when handling them!
Redfish
Redfish, also known as red drum, are another species we don't have here in Lake Champlain, but they're worth knowing about if you fish the coast. These copper-colored beauties typically run 20-30 inches in inshore waters, with larger ones offshore. Look for them in shallow flats, around oyster bars, and near marsh edges. They love to root around in the mud for crabs and shrimp, often with their tails sticking out of the water - we call that "tailing." Fall is prime time as they school up for spawning. Redfish put up a great fight, with powerful runs and head shakes. They're also excellent table fare. To catch them, try a gold spoon or a jig tipped with shrimp. Work it slowly along the bottom, and be ready for a solid thump when they hit. Here's a tip: if you see a school of reds but they won't bite, try downsizing your lure and making longer casts. Sometimes a more subtle approach is key.
Tarpon
Now, tarpon aren't native to Lake Champlain, but we do get some questions about them from folks who've fished down south. These "silver kings" are massive, often 100+ pounds, and known for their spectacular aerial displays when hooked. You'll typically find them in warm coastal waters, rolling at the surface in channels or along beaches. Tarpon are pure sport fish - they're not good eating, but the fight is unforgettable. Spring and early summer are prime time, especially around full moons. Live bait like mullet or crabs work well, but many anglers prefer the challenge of fly fishing with large streamers. When you hook up, be ready for multiple jumps and long runs. The key is maintaining steady pressure without horsing them in. It's a marathon, not a sprint. If you're ever down in Florida or the Gulf Coast, give tarpon fishing a shot - it's an experience you won't forget!
About the RVGS Motorboat
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Vehicle Guest Capacity: 6
Manufacturer Name: Suzuki
Maximum Cruising Speed: 50
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 250
