Spring has arrived and the fish are biting in Vermont! It’s time to get out in the fresh air and have some good old fashioned fun with friends, family or a day by yourself to enjoy the peace and quiet surrounded by some of the most gorgeous scenery in Vermont. But do you know where the best places to go to have a successful day fishing? We’ve put together some of the best family friendly fishing spots in the state, and we think you’ll agree that these places will give you some long lasting memories of simple days and good times.
1. Shelburne Bay, Shelburne
For the best chances for some great catches, head to the shoreline at the Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department’s access area, but the absolute best fishing is from the bridge on Bay Road to the point. If you enjoy the Shelburne Bay in early spring or late fall, you may even encounter lake trout or rainbow trout. Late spring and early summer brings a number of panfish, bass, and northern pike.
2. Baker Pond, Brookfield
Owned by the Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department, Baker Pond has plenty of places to fish from the shore. You can also take out a small boat to try for a brook trout in early spring, or enjoy the abundant amount of largemouth bass and pumpkinseed sunfish.
3. Lake Champlain, Alburg
Alberg is located in the northwest corner in Vermont and has some of the most diverse selection of fish around with over 90 different species. One of the best areas to catch some live ones is is the Korean War Veterans Fishing Access, which provides shore-bound anglers a great opportunity to catch some beauties.
4. Lake Champlain, Burton Island
Burton Island State Park is accessible by boat or ferry and provides some of the best fishing access, especially for the younger fishers who can drop their line in from one of the docs. In addition to some excellent fishing, this park provides camping, hiking and beaches. Talk about options for the best family fishing experience ever!
5. Lower Lamoille River, Milton
This area has two platforms that are accessible to everyone and the fishing is great right off the platforms. Here you’ll find yellow perch, smallmouth and largemouth bass, rock bass, brown bullhead, and northern pike. A short drive north to the Sandbar State Park is a quick option if the fish aren’t biting much here.
6. Winooski River, Colchester
Here you’ll find yellow perch, white perch, smallmouth and largemouth bass, brown bullhead, and northern pike. Mid-May is an excellent time to try your hand, or rather your rod, on the Lower Winooski River.
7. Sunset Lake, Brookfield
The floating bridge isn’t the only thing in the water over Sunset Lake. Go ahead and drop your line right off the bridge and this time of year it’s filled with trout in early spring.
8. Silver Lake, Barnard
Enjoy fishing directly from shore at Silver Lake State Park. There is so much to do here including a swimming beach, playground and camping. Boat and canoe rentals are also available.
