Best Places To Fish in Vermont
Vermont is a paradise for anglers, offering a variety of scenic fishing spots to explore. The purpose of this page is to share information about the best fishing lakes in the state, listed by species. Among the best places to fish in Vermont is Lake Champlain, a vast freshwater lake that straddles the Vermont-New York border. This lake is renowned for its diverse fish population, with popular species such as largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, northern pike, and walleye. Spring and fall are particularly productive seasons for bass fishing, while summer is the best time to target northern pike. Ice fishing is also popular during the winter months when the lake freezes over, providing ample opportunities to catch panfish and perch.
Another fantastic fishing destination in Vermont is the Connecticut River, which meanders through the eastern part of the state. This river boasts healthy populations of smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, northern pike, and catfish. Spring and early summer are ideal for targeting bass, while northern pike and catfish fishing tend to peak in the warmer months.
Lake Memphremagog, located in the northeastern part of Vermont, is another top spot for anglers. This pristine lake is known for its trophy-sized trout and landlocked salmon. The best time to fish for these species is typically in the spring and fall when the water temperatures are cooler. Lake Willoughby is another gem in Vermont's fishing scene, offering anglers the chance to catch lake trout and rainbow trout in its deep and clear waters. Early summer and fall are prime times for fishing in this picturesque lake.
Vermont's smaller ponds and reservoirs also provide excellent fishing opportunities. Places like Lake Bomoseen and Lake St. Catherine offer anglers the chance to catch bass, northern pike, and panfish throughout the year, with summer being the most popular time to visit.
Vermont's rivers and streams are teeming with native brook trout and wild rainbow trout, making fly fishing a favorite activity for many anglers. The best time to fly fish in Vermont's rivers is during the spring and early summer when the water levels are higher, and the trout are more active.
Whether you're looking to cast your line in a picturesque lake, fish in a meandering river, or explore the state's smaller ponds, Vermont offers a wealth of fishing opportunities for anglers of all ages and skill levels. Each season brings its unique charm and fish species, ensuring an unforgettable fishing experience in this beautiful New England state.
There are many great places to fish in The Green Mountain State. Many of the fisheries in Vermont are set in scenic areas deserving of travel poster images. But, the fishing is what draws anglers for a wide variety of species. This website covers fishing at major, fresh-water lakes in the state. The lists below represent the best places to fish among the lakes we cover.
Vermont's Top-Five, Amazing Fishing Spots
- Lake Champlain in northwest VT
- Lake Dunmore in west-central VT
- Lake Memphremagog in northern VT
- Lake Carmi in northern VT
- Lake Bomoseen in west-central VT
For such a small state, Vermont has some sizeable fisheries. Lake Champlain is without a doubt, the top of the list. Several other lakes might make this list, one year over another, but these are proven quality fisheries, over time. Learn more...
Most Popular Fish Species In Vermont
Welcome to fishing haven! Anglers have the opportunity to fish for two species of bass, channel catfish, both species of crappie, four species of trout, landlocked salmon, walleye, bluegill, perch, sunfish, muskie, pike and multiple other species in Vermont pristine waters. Learn more...
Best Bass Fishing Lakes In Vermont
- Lake Champlain in northwest VT
- Lake Dunmore in west-central VT
- Lake Memphremagog in northern VT
The best place to fish for bass in Vermont is undoubtedly Lake Champlain. Largemouth and smallmouth bass are found there, as well as many other waters around the state. Learn more...
Top Places To Fish For Trout In Vermont
- Lake Champlain in northwest VT
- Seymour Lake in northeast VT
- Lake Willoughby in northeast VT
Take your pick of rainbow, brook, brown or lake trout when you wet a line in trout fisheries across the state. We focus here on major lakes here, however there are great streams, and rivers offering trout fishing as well. Learn more...
Best Perch & Sunfish Fishing Lakes In Vermont
- Lake Champlain in northwest VT
- Lake Bomoseen in west-central VT
- Lake Carmi in northern VT
Clean, cold, fertile water creates an ideal environment for growing big, tasty perch. You can find perch in most fisheries in the state. In addition, bluegill, pumpkinseed sunfish and rock bass also populate many waters. Learn more...
Top Places To Fish For Crappie In Vermont
- Lake Champlain in northwest VT
- Lake Carmi in northern VT
- Lake Dunmore in west-central VT
Crappie, along with perch, are quite popular ice fishing targets in winter. In spring crappie can be found near shallows with brush or other cover. Learn more...
Best Lakes To Fish For Salmon In Vermont
- Lake Champlain in northwest VT
- Lake Dunmore in west-central VT
- Lake Memphremagog in northern VT
Landlocked, Atlantic salmon are fun to catch and great as table fare. The state record is over 12 pounds, and there are plenty of chunky fish to be caught at these three terrific lakes. Learn more...
Enjoy these top spots to go fishing in Vermont
Find the best places to fish, by state.
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