On this crisp Halloween morning, October 31st, 2024, Lake Champlain is offering some of the best fall fishing you can ask for. The weather is cool and clear, with a light breeze out of the northwest, making it ideal for a day on the water.

Sunrise was at 7:24 AM, and sunset will be at 5:04 PM, giving us a full day to take advantage of the active fish. The lake's water temperature has dropped significantly, triggering a feeding frenzy among the fish as they prepare for winter.

Yesterday's fishing reports indicated a high level of activity, particularly among smallmouth bass. Anglers were successful in catching these feisty fish on rocky points and shorelines with scattered vegetation, especially around areas like North Hero, Alburg, and Isle Lamotte. The best lures to use include spinnerbaits, stickbaits, and top-water lures. For a more finesse approach, drop-shotting plastics or dragging jigs on the bottom also yielded good results.

In addition to smallmouth bass, there were reports of landlocked Atlantic salmon being caught, particularly in the northern parts of the lake. These fish are part of the fall spawning run and can be targeted using streamers or small nymphs.

For bait, artificial lures are highly effective this time of year, but if you prefer live bait, be aware that its use is prohibited from September 1 through the end of trout season on October 31st.

Hot spots to consider today include the rocky shorelines around West Swanton and St. Albans, where the smallmouth bass have been particularly active. Another spot is the area near the Inland Sea, where the combination of rocky structures and vegetation makes it a haven for feeding fish.

Overall, with the cooler weather and fewer anglers on the water, today promises to be an excellent day for fishing on Lake Champlain. So grab your gear, and get out there to enjoy the fall foliage and some fantastic fishing.