Book Your Fishing Charter in Milton, VT

Book your fishing trip in Milton and find out why it's one of Vermont's top fishing spots.

Book Your Fishing Charter in Milton, VT
Book Your Fishing Charter in Milton, VT
Team Guidesly

September 28, 2021, 4 min read

Updated on June 19, 2023

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Located about twenty minutes’ drive north of Burlington, Milton boasts that perfect balance of city convenience and rural atmosphere. It may have been known as a “bedroom community” in the past (as many of its residents work in and around the city of Burlington) but people from all over the state are beginning to appreciate it in recent years for what it really is—a charming outdoor getaway. 

One of the attractions here is Lake Champlain, an outdoor enthusiast’s dream vacation spot as one can have an amazing time swimming, boating, and fishing under the sun while taking in the majestic views of the green hills that surround it. It’s not just the water that makes this such a great summer getaway, though, as there are wildlife reserves, state parks, hiking trails, and camping grounds located on the shores of Milton. The views are equally stunning. The best thing about this is you can get up close and personal with the local wildlife (like beavers, muskrats, raccoons, turtles, and a wide variety of migratory birds) while hiking along the wildlife reserve.   

Aside from its natural wonders, Milton has that typical American small town appeal that folks who want to get away from the city crowds would certainly appreciate. You can take in that small-town charm when you stroll around and chat with the friendly locals in restaurants, coffee shops, bars, and other social spots.    

Why Milton is the Green Mountain State’s Premier Fishing Town

Milton is a perfect fishing destination as two of the most fish-abundant bodies of water in the region can easily be accessed here. Lake Champlain located at the town’s western boundaries is definitely an angler’s paradise as the lake supports healthy populations of a wide array of fish species. Favorite angling targets here include smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, lake sturgeon, channel catfish, northern pike, landlocked Atlantic salmon, yellow perch, rainbow smelt, walleye, brown bullhead, and different sorts of trout. The best way to fish its waters is, of course, by chartering a fishing boat as it allows you to get to the spot of the lake where most fish are often caught. Fishing charters are also great because of seasoned fishing captains who can teach you all the tricks of the trade.

Another popular fishing spot in Milton is the Lamoille River. It flows across the northern part of Vermont and passes through Milton until it finally drains into Lake Champlain at the southwestern edge of the town. Because it’s directly connected to Lake Champlain, the river carries much of the same fish species found in the lake, including favorite targets such as smallmouth and largemouth bass, Atlantic salmon, catfish, northern pike, lake sturgeon, and trout. Two fishing platforms are open to the public—Lamoille River Access (Access Road) and Sears Access (Gravelle Road), both of which are located at the stretch of the river just before it drains into the lake. 

If you’re planning a fishing trip here, the best time to go is between early May and mid-October. This is because it’s the time of the year when the weather isn’t too hot and too cold, just right for a day or two of fishing along the waters of both Lamoille River and Lake Champlain. It’s also when most fish species in both bodies of water are most actively feeding as they prepare for the coming winter.                

house reflecting on a body of water

Fun Milton Trip Must-Do’s

Milton is a family-friendly spot where you and your family can experience the best of the great outdoors and the charm of small-town living. Here are some activities you should never miss on your Milton trip: 

1.The Great Outdoors

With wildlife reserves, state parks, hiking trails, and camping grounds located in and around town, Milton is an outdoor recreational haven that kids and adults alike would certainly love. The Sand Bar State Park located at the south-western edge of town that faces Lake Champlain, for instance, is a perfect summer getaway where you and your kids can bask under the sun on the beach or go for a refreshing dip in the water. You can also opt to hike to the Sand Bar Wildlife Refuge at the southern end of the park and take pictures of the wildlife including beavers, muskrats, raccoons, turtles, and a wide variety of migratory birds.

2. Small Town Living

Milton is a quintessential small town where you can experience the charm of rural living without the hassles. How else can you experience it first-hand but just walk around the town and interact with the friendly locals? Besides the walkable town center, there are restaurants, coffee shops, bars, and other social spots where you can have a great time and fully soak in that enchanting small-town feel.  

Fish in Milton and beyond.