Lake Champlain Lake Trout Fishing Charter
Private Trip
Lakes/Reservoirs/Ponds Fishing
Sixhour trolling charter targets lake trout in deep watersAdvanced sonar and four downriggers ensure precise fish locationAll equipment provided for structured boatbased fishing experience
When you're serious about putting lake trout in the boat, Lake Champlain delivers like few places can. This 6-hour charter with Lazy D and Me Fishing Charters puts you right where the big lakers cruise the deep structure, using downrigger trolling techniques that consistently produce fish. We're talking about a no-nonsense approach to one of the Northeast's premier lake trout fisheries, where the water runs cold and clear, and the trout grow fat and strong. You'll be fishing with a captain who knows every underwater hump, drop-off, and thermal layer that holds fish throughout the seasons.
This trip is built around precision trolling over Lake Champlain's proven structure. You're not just dragging lures and hoping for the best – this is methodical fishing where every detail matters. The charter accommodates 1-4 anglers, making it perfect for a focused outing where everyone gets plenty of action. The boat comes rigged with four Cannon electronic downriggers, which means consistent depth control and clean presentations every time. You'll be using light-action Ugly Stik rods paired with Daiwa line counter reels, gear that's perfectly matched for feeling every subtle take while still having the backbone to handle big fish. The advanced Lowrance electronics on board track bottom contours, bait schools, and fish movement with surgical precision. Captain uses this tech to keep you on productive water all day long. Remember to grab your valid Lake Champlain fishing license before you show up – it's required for all anglers and the trip won't run without it.
Downrigger trolling is the bread and butter of serious lake trout fishing, and this charter has it dialed in. The four Cannon electronic units let you cover different depth zones simultaneously, from the thermocline down to the bottom structure where big lakers spend their time. Your captain reads the sonar constantly, adjusting depths based on what the fish are telling him. When bait shows up on screen, the downriggers follow it down. When the bottom structure changes, the weights move to stay in the strike zone. The light-action rods might surprise you – they're not the heavy sticks you'd expect for big trout. But that's the beauty of downrigger fishing: the weight does the work while your rod stays sensitive enough to feel every head shake and run. Line counter reels take the guesswork out of getting back to productive depths after a fish. Mark 47 feet on the counter when you hook up, and you know exactly where to return your line. It's systematic fishing that puts the odds heavily in your favor.
Lake trout in Lake Champlain are the real deal – cold-water predators that can live for decades and grow to impressive sizes. These fish are structure-oriented, relating to underwater points, humps, and drop-offs where they ambush baitfish moving between shallow and deep water. Peak fishing typically runs from late spring through early fall, when the trout are actively feeding and easier to locate with electronics. What makes lakers so exciting to catch is their initial run – when a big trout feels the hook, it often makes a screaming dive for the depths, testing your drag and rod tip. They're not flashy jumpers like salmon, but they're bulldogs that use their weight and the deep water to their advantage. Lake Champlain's lakers average 3-8 pounds, with fish over 10 pounds always a possibility. The lake's excellent water quality and abundant forage base keep these trout in prime condition, with thick shoulders and bright silver sides that make for great photos and even better table fare.
This charter represents some of the most consistent lake trout fishing you'll find in the Northeast. Lake Champlain's reputation as a top-rated fishery isn't built on luck – it's earned through years of producing quality fish for anglers who know what they're after. The combination of professional-grade electronics, proven downrigger techniques, and a captain who lives and breathes these waters gives you the best shot at a memorable day. Whether you're a seasoned angler looking to dial in your lake trout game or newer to the sport and wanting to learn proper trolling methods, this structured approach delivers results. The 6-hour format gives you plenty of time to work different areas and depths as conditions change throughout the day. Keep in mind that deposits are non-refundable, so check the weather forecast and plan accordingly. Lake trout fishing is a year-round opportunity on Champlain, but each season offers different patterns and presentations that keep things interesting for repeat customers.
The 25' Baha Cruiser 250 Fisherman is your ticket to serious lake trout action on Lake Champlain. This '99 beauty runs on a reliable 270hp Chevrolet engine and stays rock-steady even when the lake gets choppy. The enclosed cabin keeps you comfortable during those early morning runs to the fishing grounds, plus there's an onboard head so you won't miss any prime fishing time. Modern Lowrance electronics help locate fish and track the underwater structure where big lakers hang out. Four Cannon downriggers let your group cover multiple depths simultaneously while trolling the deep water. With room for up to 4 anglers, everyone gets plenty of space to work their lines without getting tangled up. The boat's USCG certified and well-maintained, so you can focus on what matters most – getting your lines down to where those lake trout are waiting.
Hudson River