Summer is prime time for targeting lake trout, also known as lakers, across the United States and Canada. As the water warms, these predatory fish often move to cooler, deeper waters, making them accessible with the right techniques. I’ve spent over a decade guiding anglers and exploring lakes from the Rockies to the Great Lakes, and I’m here to share my proven strategies for how to catch lake trout in summer. This guide will cover everything from selecting the best lake trout spoons and lake trout rigs to mastering trolling for lake trout and effective jigging lake trout techniques. We’ll also dive into trolling speed for lake trout and essential tackle considerations.
Before we get into the specifics of tackle and techniques, it’s crucial to understand how lake trout behave during the summer months. Lakers are cold-water fish, and they seek out thermoclines – layers of rapidly changing temperature – to find comfortable conditions. The thermocline typically forms in mid-summer, creating a distinct separation between warmer surface water and colder, deeper water. Lake trout will often hold near the bottom or within the thermocline, feeding on baitfish like trout, whitefish, and ciscoes. According to the National Park Service, understanding fish behavior is the first step to successful angling.
Locating lake trout requires a bit of detective work. Here are some key areas to focus on:
Having the right tackle is paramount. Let's break down the essential components for a successful lake trout setup.
For trolling for trout, a medium-heavy to heavy action trolling rod (7-9 feet) is ideal. Look for rods with a sensitive tip to detect strikes. Pair this with a level-wind trolling reel capable of holding at least 200 yards of 30-50 lb test braided line. For jigging for lake trout, a medium-heavy action jigging rod (6-7 feet) with a fast tip is preferred, matched with a baitcasting reel. REI Expert Advice provides a great overview of rod and reel selection.
Braided line is the preferred choice for lake trout fishing due to its low stretch and high strength. Use 30-50 lb test braid for trolling and 20-30 lb test for jigging. A fluorocarbon leader (10-20 lb test) is essential for providing invisibility to wary lakers.
Here are some effective lake trout fishing rigs:
Choosing the right lure is critical. Here’s a breakdown of the best lures for lake trout, categorized by technique.
Spoon lures for trout are incredibly effective for trolling. The flash and wobble attract lakers from a distance. Some top choices include:
When jigging for lake trout, these lures excel:
Mastering trolling for lake trout requires attention to detail.
Trolling speed for lake trout is crucial. Generally, 1.5-2.5 mph is a good starting point. Experiment to find what works best on the day. Slower speeds are often effective in colder water, while faster speeds can be productive when lakers are actively feeding.
Use a fish finder to determine the depth of the thermocline and adjust your lure depth accordingly. Downriggers are ideal for precise depth control. If you're trolling without downriggers, use snap weights or lead core line to get your lure down.
Vary your trolling patterns to cover more water and find where the fish are holding. Try trolling in a straight line, making S-turns, or circling around structure.
Jigging for trout is a more active technique that can be incredibly rewarding.
Vertical jigging lake trout involves dropping your jig directly below your boat and lifting and dropping it in a rhythmic motion. Keep your line tight and be ready to set the hook on the upstroke.
Snap jigging involves a more aggressive lift and drop, creating a more erratic action. This can be particularly effective when lakers are aggressive.
Remember to practice responsible angling and follow Leave No Trace principles. Pack out all trash, avoid disturbing wildlife, and respect the environment. The USDA Forest Service offers valuable information on responsible outdoor recreation.
By following these tips and techniques, you’ll be well on your way to catching more lake trout this summer. Good luck, and tight lines!