To find big lake trout in late summer, find their preferred food. Here’s how • Outdoor Canada

Mastering the Art of Catching Big Lake Trout

When the temperature drops nearly overnight from a record high—the “feels like” reading was 41°C (105°F)—to a cool 19°C (66°F), you know the fish are going to react negatively. But we were determined to catch big lake trout, even though we knew they’d have their mouths closed tighter than a mousetrap.

 Why September is Prime Time for Big Lake Trout

September stands out as one of our favorite months to target the massive dwellers of the deep and the perfect time to catch (and release) some of the biggest lake trout in the water. Diet studies have shown conclusively that up to 85% of the catch in September consists of female lake trout that are bulking up, gaining nourishment to complete the maturation process of the eggs they are carrying and will soon deposit.

I love September for another reason too. Many lake trout lakes become anoxic and hypoxic in late summer, losing oxygen in the lower reaches due to the decomposition occurring in the basin. This forces the trout—and their food—to suspend higher in the water column where oxygen levels are still sufficient.

Adapting to the Changing Conditions

When the water temperature changes so drastically, it can be challenging to catch big lake trout. However, with the right strategy and determination, you can still have a successful fishing trip. Here are some tips on how to adapt to the changing conditions:

Target Suspended Fish

When lake trout suspend higher in the water column due to low oxygen levels in the deeper parts of the lake, it’s essential to target these suspended fish. Use your fish finder to locate the depth at which the trout are holding, and adjust your fishing techniques accordingly.

 Use the Right Baits and Lures

Lake trout are opportunistic feeders, especially when they are bulking up in preparation for spawning. Use baits and lures that mimic their natural prey. Spoons, swimbaits, and live bait like minnows or smelt can be highly effective. Experiment with different colors and sizes to see what attracts the most bites.

 Slow Down Your Presentation

In cooler temperatures, lake trout may be less active and more hesitant to chase fast-moving lures. Slow down your presentation to entice them. Jigging, slow trolling, or using a slip bobber with live bait can be effective techniques in these conditions.

Finding the Best Spots

Finding the right spots to catch big lake trout in September requires a good understanding of the lake’s structure and the trout’s behavior. Here are some key areas to focus on:

Drop-offs and Ledges

Lake trout often congregate near drop-offs and ledges where the water depth changes abruptly. These areas provide excellent ambush points for feeding and are prime spots to find big lake trout. Use your fish finder to locate these structures and position your boat accordingly.

Points and Humps

Underwater points and humps can also be productive areas for catching lake trout. These structures attract baitfish, which in turn attract lake trout. Fish around these areas, varying your depth until you find where the trout are holding.

Inlets and Outlets

Inlets and outlets where water flows into or out of the lake can be hotspots for lake trout. The moving water brings in oxygen and nutrients, attracting both baitfish and trout. Focus your efforts around these areas, especially during periods of low oxygen levels in the lake.

Maximizing Your Chances of Success

To maximize your chances of catching big lake trout, it’s essential to be prepared and adaptable. Here are some additional tips to keep in mind:

Stay Observant

Pay attention to the lake’s conditions and the behavior of the fish. If you notice changes in water temperature, oxygen levels, or fish activity, be ready to adjust your tactics. Staying observant and flexible can make a significant difference in your success rate.

 Use Quality Gear

Using high-quality gear can improve your chances of landing big lake trout. Ensure your rods, reels, and lines are in good condition and suitable for the size of fish you’re targeting. Invest in a good fish finder to help locate fish and underwater structures.

Practice Catch and Release

Lake trout are a valuable resource, and practicing catch and release can help maintain healthy fish populations. Handle the fish carefully, use barbless hooks if possible, and release them promptly to ensure their survival.

Enjoying the Experience

Fishing for big lake trout in September is not just about the catch; it’s about enjoying the experience and the beauty of nature. Take the time to appreciate the changing colors of the leaves, the crisp fall air, and the tranquility of the lake. Whether you catch a trophy-sized trout or just a few smaller ones, the memories and the time spent on the water are what truly matter.

Catching big lake trout

Catching big lake trout in September can be challenging, especially when the temperature drops suddenly. However, with the right strategies and techniques, you can still have a successful and enjoyable fishing trip. By targeting suspended fish, using the right baits and lures, and focusing on key areas of the lake, you can increase your chances of landing some of the biggest lake trout of the season. Remember to stay observant, use quality gear, and practice catch and release to ensure a sustainable fishery for future generations. Happy fishing!

On our current Doc Talks Fishing podcast, our good good friend, Dr. Chris Therrien highlighted how the most important lake trout sometimes fatten up by feeding on gentle silvery ciscoes which have a choice for water temperatures round 12°C (54°F).  So the very first thing we did once we launched the boat was drop the Fish Hawk thermometer into the water and discover the place that band of most popular cool water. It was about 48 to 52 toes down, so we highlighted on the Humminbird Helix chartplotter all the buildings—underwater factors, reefs, humps and rock piles—that intersected with the best band of water temperature. I like to think about it as exposing the lake trout “zone of chaos.” And mayhem is what we loved.

The fishing wasn’t straightforward because the trout wouldn’t chase, as they sometimes do, once we pulled our Crush Metropolis minnowbaits away from them. We needed to maintain the baits regular and nonetheless, let the trout circle them repeatedly and typically even bump them with their noses. However we managed to place a trio of perversely plump lake trout into the boat, after which, again into the lake.

It’s too dangerous you weren’t in a position to be a part of us, you’d have had a ball, however hop into the boat with us nearly proper now and watch how we did it.