Lake Champlain, a freshwater body spanning approximately 120 miles and reaching depths of up to 400 feet, is shared by New York, Vermont, and Quebec. It supports over 90 different fish species, representing a diverse aquatic ecosystem. The lake also serves as a source of drinking water for many communities.
Game Fish and Popular Catches
Anglers frequently target several fish species in Lake Champlain. Lake Trout, a cold-water species, are found in the deeper, northern sections, preferring temperatures between 40 and 50 degrees Fahrenheit. Landlocked Salmon, known for their powerful leaps, also inhabit cooler, deeper waters and are a highly sought-after species.
Northern Pike, recognizable by their elongated bodies and sharp teeth, are ambush predators that wait among aquatic vegetation. They are popular among both summer and winter anglers. Walleye, prized for their delicate flavor, are often caught during evening hours. Smallmouth Bass thrive in the lake’s diverse habitats and offer a vigorous fight.
Diverse Native Species
Beyond game fish, Lake Champlain supports a broad array of native species. Yellow Perch are common and widespread, frequently targeted by ice fishers in winter. These schooling fish form a key part of the food web, serving as prey for larger fish and birds. Various sunfish species, such as the Pumpkinseed, inhabit the warmer, shallower, nearshore waters.
Brown Bullhead, a type of catfish, are bottom-dwelling fish that contribute to the lake’s scavenging community. Minnows and suckers also play crucial roles within the aquatic food web, forming the base of the food chain and providing sustenance for larger predatory fish.
Invasive Species of Concern
Lake Champlain faces challenges from non-native species that impact native fish communities. Approximately 15 to 16 of the 88 to 90 fish species in the lake are non-native. Sea Lamprey, a parasitic fish, attach to other fish like Lake Trout, feeding on their blood and often causing harm. Their presence is managed to protect native fish populations.
Alewife, small fish that entered Lake Champlain in 2003, can alter the food web by preying on the eggs of other species and competing for food resources. While their long-term impact on Lake Champlain’s Lake Trout restoration has been unexpectedly variable compared to other Great Lakes, they remain a species of concern. The Round Goby, found in nearby waterways, poses a significant threat as they consume fish eggs and reproduce rapidly, potentially causing declines in native fish populations. White Perch also compete with native species like Yellow Perch and Walleye, consuming their eggs.
Protecting Lake Champlain’s Fish
Efforts to conserve and manage Lake Champlain’s fish populations involve a multi-faceted approach focused on habitat preservation and water quality. Protecting critical habitats such as shorelines, wetlands, and river corridors is paramount for fish spawning, feeding, and shelter. Wetlands serve as natural filters, improving water quality by removing sediments and excess nutrients, which benefits fish health.
Maintaining high water quality is also a continuous endeavor, addressing issues like phosphorus runoff from agricultural areas, which can lead to algal blooms that harm aquatic life. Agencies also monitor and work to reduce toxic chemicals, such as polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and mercury, which can accumulate in fish tissue. Collaborative efforts among various agencies, including the Lake Champlain Fish and Wildlife Management Cooperative and the Lake Champlain Basin Program, are essential. These groups work together to implement management plans, control invasive species, and restore native fish populations.