Fall is prime time for fishing

VTF&W lists hot fall fishing opportunities across Vermont
RUTLAND — As water temperatures cool across Vermont, the fishing action is heating up and the Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department has assembled a list of some of the top fall fishing opportunities in all corners of the state to help anglers get started toward a successful fishing trip.
“With the onset of fall and cooling water temperatures, various fish species begin to feed heavily in advance of winter, resulting in some of the best fishing of the year throughout Vermont,” said Eric Palmer, director of fisheries with Vermont Fish & Wildlife.  “We hope anglers of all interests and abilities will get out on the water this fall to enjoy a gorgeous time of year in the outdoors and experience Vermont fishing at its best.”
From cold water species like trout and salmon, to warm water species such as largemouth and smallmouth bass, northern pike, yellow perch and walleye, Vermont’s array of fish species become more active during the fall as they feed to boost their energy reserves in order to sustain themselves during the winter.
In addition to the rise in fish feeding activity, the fall season also means a decrease in angling pressure, less boat traffic on Vermont’s lakes and ponds, and incredible views of Vermont’s renowned foliage.
“Fall is one of the absolute best times to be on the water in Vermont, regardless of what species you want to target, and you’ll likely have your favorite fishing holes all to yourself,” said Shawn Good, fisheries biologist with Vermont Fish & Wildlife. “Some of the best days I’ve ever had on the water have come in the fall when many other anglers have already put their rods away for the year.”
For hot fall fishing action, anglers might consider the following local fishing opportunities, locations and tactics: (For statewide list visit vtfishandwildlife.com).
Central Vermont
Smallmouth Bass: Lake Fairlee, Lake Morey, Waterbury Reservoir, Wrightsville Reservoir– aggressive, feeding smallmouths can be caught using spinnerbaits, stickbaits, crankbaits and top-water plugs. Smallies can also be caught with finesse presentations such as drop-shotting plastics or dragging jigs on the bottom.
Brook Trout: The Central Vermont area features countless tributaries above 1,000 feet in elevation which are home to healthy populations of vibrantly-colored native brook trout that can be a blast to pursue and delicious on the table for those who wish to keep them.
Rainbow Trout: White River – fish with spinners, flies or bait in deep pools and slow moving riffles.
Brown Trout:  Lake Fairlee, Miller Pond, Peacham Pond and Nelson Pond – try fishing for brown trout

Photo By Jim White courtesy of VTF&W
Vermont angler Jody White recently cashed in on the hot fall bite with a pair of chunky smallmouth bass.