Guide To The Secrets Of Walleye & Sauger Fishing In Vermont

Walleye & Sauger

Healthy populations of walleye can be found in Island Pond, Lake Carmi, Lake Champlain and Lake Memphremagog. Rivers flowing into and out of these lakes may also contain walleye under ideal conditions. Other rivers in the state also contain samplings of walleye. Walleye prefer moderately deep lakes with gravel, rock or sandy bottoms. It is found primarily in cold water lakes but has proven to survive in warmer impoundments. It is prized for its great tasting filets. Click here to learn all about walleye fishing.

Vermont offers nice opportunities for walleye fishing, drawing anglers from all over to try their luck in catching this prized species. Walleye are known for their tasty flesh and challenging behavior, making them a favorite target for both recreational and competitive fishing.

The lakes and rivers of Vermont are home to thriving populations of walleye. Lake Champlain, with its vast expanse of freshwater, is a popular destination for walleye anglers. The lake's diverse structure and depths provide ideal habitats for these elusive fish. Other lakes such as Lake Memphremagog, Lake Bomoseen, and Lake Carmi also offer rewarding walleye fishing experiences.

Among the state's rivers, the Connecticut River stands out as a prime location for walleye fishing. Stretching along Vermont's eastern border, this river provides ample opportunities to catch this prized species. The waters of the Connecticut River are known for holding large walleye, enticing anglers with the promise of an impressive catch.

Vermont state records for walleye have been set by anglers who managed to land exceptional specimens. Over the years, walleye catches weighing over 14 pounds have been recorded, showcasing the potential for trophy-sized fish in the state's waters.

While walleye are the primary target for many anglers, Vermont also offers opportunities to catch sauger, a close relative of the walleye. Sauger are often found in similar habitats as walleye and share similar behaviors. However, they are generally smaller in size and may require a bit of skill to differentiate from their walleye counterparts.

Vermont's walleye fishing season typically opens in early May and extends through the summer months. This time of the year aligns with the species' spawning and feeding patterns, providing optimal conditions for successful fishing trips.

Anglers seeking the thrill of catching walleye or sauger in picturesque settings need not look further than Vermont's lakes and rivers. With an abundance of these prized species and the chance to set new state records, Vermont's walleye fishing promises unforgettable experiences for both seasoned anglers and beginners alike.

Click the images and links above for species details.

Top lures for walleye in Vermont

Jigs with a variety of trailers and bait work well in virtually any depth water. When walleyes are shallow, spinnerbaits, small crankbaits and rip baits are the often very productive. As they move deeper, spoons are ideal for active walleye. When ice fishing, jigs and ice jigs are very popular. Understanding the seasonal movements of walleyes improves your odds of selecting the right lures for conditions on local waters.

Vermont State Walleye, Sauger & Saugeye Records

The state record walleye was caught out of Lake Champlain.

The state record sauger came from Lake Champlain.

Fishing For Walleye

This toothy fish will eat virtually anything it can catch and get in its mouth. They prefer small fish and will eat crustaceans, worms and insects. They tend to be somewhat wary and prefer the safety of deeper darker water. Trolling for walleye with deep diving crankbaits, jerkbaits, spinners and live bait provides a way to cover vast areas and locate concentrations of fish. Use of planer boards allows anglers to cover water out both sides of the boat while trolling. Try fishing for walleye from sundown to midnight, particularly during the heat of summer.

Fishing For Sauger

Closely related to the walleye and similar in appearance, sauger are generally smaller than walleye, reaching 4 to 5 pounds (or more) and up to about 20 inches. Often found in muddier rivers, it thrives in larger, silty lakes. They spawn in the shallows at night, without creating or guarding specific nests.

Vermont walleye spawn in spring and when they have the option will choose to migrate from the lake up into feeder streams to spawn. If this option is not available they seek out shallow bars or shoals with clean bottom surfaces near deep water.

Watch this video for walleye tips and tactics.

Walleye Resources

In-Fisherman - Walleye
U.S. Fish & Wildlife - Walleye
The National Wildlife Federation - Walleye

Also find information about walleye, sauger or saugeye fishing in these states.