It has been a long and cold winter. Mt. Mansfield has had well above average snow at the stake since early November. Lake Champlain is completely froze over which hasnt happen since 2019. It used to do it all the time.
The ice on many lakes is over 20 inches. River fishing has been limited to below spillways and water falls as they have been locked up for months.
Since the new year, we have been getting ready for the 2026 season. Going through existing gear and purchase new gear is always in the cards. Tying flies is a must as well. Our guides have been getting together for some social time and fly tying.
I’m often asked, when the best time of year is to fish. I think anytime you can get out is a good time. However if you are interested in the best chance to catch fish then May and June for early season.
Right now we are waiting for steelhead spawning waters to clear their ice for some good spawning flows. Last year, some fresh fish were being caught right now. Late March and early April is the time frame for chasing chrome out of Lake Champlain. Stay tuned.
For trout, late April the water starts to warm into the mid 40s. At this point aquatic life starts to pick up and the trout’s metabolism follows suit. Once the river temps are 50, usually early in May, aquatic insect start to hatch more regularly bringing fish to the surface. Obviously, the trout catching can be better once fish and game gets to their stocking program. They are usually done mid May.
Late April and May another spring spawner begins to make their way out of many lakes.
Smallmouth bass. This is a great time to book a trip. When this spawn is going on, we target them for at least a portion of our clients day. Simply for the opportunity to catch the largest smallie of the year, and for many folks of their life. More on this as the weeks get closer.