Lake Champlain Vacation

[Tpost]

Hey guys,

 

So my wife booked a vacation this summer at Tyler's Place, which is located in Highgate Springs, VT. It's near the Canadian border, and looking at Google Maps we're near Goose Bay and Rock River Bay. We're going to be there at the end of July, first week of August.

 

I did a search on the forums but didn't find much - just wondering what to expect in terms of fishing? Will the smallmouth and largemouth be biting? I was planning on bringing some rods and my tackle. If there is any specific advice on what lures I should bring, that would be much appreciated.

 

Also, I was planning on hiring a guide for me and my son one day - Capt. Gil. of Bronzeback Guide Service. Anyone know Capt. Gil or have reviews? Apparently he's the on site guide for Tyler's Place. 

 

Thanks for your help.

[Fishing Rhino]

If you do hire a guide, go with them as early as possible in your trip.  You will not only learn some places, but you will also learn about what baits and techniques are working.

 

You can put what you learn to good use for the rest of your trip.

[Mainebass1984]

Fishing that time of year can be pretty tough. Although Missisquoi Bay can be really good for largemouth. There is a ridge in the middle of the bay that the FLW pros always are talking about it produces some big bass. The water in the bay is usually really stained. Visibility can be very very limited less than a couple of feet. It would be a good idea to get a map. There are afew unmarked rocky humps in the bay that could easily tear off a lower unit. Dont limit yourself to fishing Missisquoi Bay there are several launches within a short drive, Rouses point, Tabor point, North Hero state park, Dillenback bay and St. Albans bay all have launches and good fishing. The area south of Tabor point known as teh inland sea is known for its smallmouth fishing as is rouses point.

[grampa1114]

Bring big spinnerbaits and plenty of 1/8 and 1/4 oz ball jigs with 3",4",5" grubs and gitzits. If you are a boater then don't forget that you will probably be passing thru Canada on your way out of the Missisquoi. This requires a boating certificate and maybe a check point. The fishing is great that time of year on the northern section of Champlain and if you fish the river, there is a chance of a Musky or a Sturgeon. I'll be there the first week of August, myself. Have been for 20 years. Good luck.

[Tpost]

Thanks guys. Unfortunately, I won't have a boat or car this vacation. The only watercraft I will have access to are some small recreational kayaks or canoes offered by the resort, which aren't specific to fishing. So, I'm probably relegated to shore fishing or staying close to shore given that.

 

Good idea on hiring the guide early on, I'll do that. Hopefully he'll point out a few spots that I can reach with my limited boating situation. 

[nhbassin]

If your limited to shore access, you will probablly have better luck trying to fish one of the rivers that flow into Champlain. The Winnoski River about an hour south of you and the river just south of you in Swanton should hold smallies.

[Mainebass1984]

If all you wil have is a kayak or canoe paddle up the missisquoi or the rock rivers. Both hold a bunch of smallmouth. You might even catch a muskie if your lucky.

[Tpost]

Much appreciated guys! Looks like I can paddle to the Rock River fairly easily  - gonna give that a shot!

[webertime]

Tpost I know Gilly. He's the 2012 TBF National Champion. One of the top anglers on Champlain. You're in great hands. Mississquoi bay (goose/gander bays) will be pretty warm at that point but you may still get fish on the northern tip of Martindale reef (hump in the middle of the bay). I'd imagine a ride down to Burton, Savage and Gull Islands to fish the humps for big smallies is on the agenda (just my guess).