“Trout and About: Catching Lake Winnipesaukee’s Majestic Swimmers”

Welcome to the ultimate guide to fishing for lake trout in Lake Winnipesaukee! Lake trout are a popular species among anglers due to their size, fight, and taste. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about fishing for lake trout in Lake Winnipesaukee, including how to catch them, where to find them, their culinary appeal, and a delicious recipe to try.

1. Introduction to Lake Trout

Lake trout (Salvelinus namaycush) are a cold-water fish species native to North America. They are known for their size, as they can grow up to 40 inches in length and weigh up to 20 pounds. The current NH record is a 37 pound lake trout caught in Stewartstown! Lake trout have a distinctive appearance, with a forked tail and a speckled, silver-gray to dark green body. You can see more information on NH Fish and Game.

2. How to Catch Lake Trout

Lake trout can be challenging to catch due to their preference for cold, deep water. However, with the right equipment and techniques, you can increase your chances of success. Here are some tips on how to catch lake trout in Lake Winnipesaukee:

• Trolling: Trolling is a popular technique for targeting lake trout. Use a downrigger or lead core line to get your lure to the desired depth. The ideal trolling speed for lake trout is around 1.5 to 2.5 mph.

• Jigging: Jigging is another effective method for catching lake trout. Use a heavy jig, such as a 1-ounce white bucktail jig or a tube jig, to reach the desired depth. Jig near underwater structures like rock piles or drop-offs, as lake trout often use these areas as hiding spots and hunting grounds. Be sure to experiment with various jigging techniques, such as quick vertical lifts and slow drags along the bottom, to see what works best for attracting lake trout.

• Seasonal techniques: Lake trout are more accessible during certain times of the year. In the early spring (April and May) and fall (September and October), lake trout can be found in shallower water as they move closer to the surface to feed. During these periods, you can use lighter trolling gear or even try casting spoons or crankbaits. In the summer months, lake trout tend to retreat to deeper, colder water, making trolling and jigging the most effective methods.

3. Where to Catch Lake Trout in Lake Winnipesaukee

Lake Winnipesaukee offers a variety of locations suitable for lake trout fishing. Some key areas to focus on include:

• Deep water: Lake trout are known to inhabit deep water, so look for areas with depths ranging from 60 to 200 feet. These deeper sections of the lake are ideal for trolling and jigging.

• Underwater structures: Lake trout often congregate near underwater structures such as rock piles, ledges, and drop-offs. Use your fishfinder or depth sounder to locate these areas and focus your fishing efforts there.

• Temperature breaks: Lake trout prefer cold water, typically between 45°F and 55°F. Use a temperature probe or pay attention to your fishfinder to identify areas where the water temperature drops significantly. These temperature breaks can be productive spots for lake trout fishing.

4. Are Lake Trout Good to Eat?

Lake trout are not only a fun and challenging fish to catch, but they are also delicious when cooked properly. Their meat is firm, flaky, and rich in flavor. Lake trout are also a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, making them a healthy addition to your diet. However, it’s essential to check local advisories for any consumption guidelines due to potential contaminants in the fish.

5. Preparing and Cooking Lake Trout

Before cooking your freshly caught lake trout, make sure to clean and fillet the fish. Remove the skin and any remaining bones to ensure a pleasant dining experience. Lake trout can be prepared in a variety of ways, such as grilling, baking, or pan-frying.

6. Lake Trout Recipe: Lemon-Herb Grilled Lake Trout

Here’s a delicious and easy recipe to try with your catch:

Ingredients:

• 2 lake trout fillets
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Lemon slices, for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, parsley, dill, salt, and pepper.
2. Place the lake trout fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over the fish. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to an hour.
3. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Oil the grill grates to prevent the fish from sticking.
4. Remove the lake trout fillets from the marin
5. ade and let any excess marinade drip off. Place the fillets on the preheated grill and cook for 4 to 5 minutes per side, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork. Be sure to turn the fillets gently to prevent them from falling apart.
6. Once the fish is cooked through, carefully remove the fillets from the grill and transfer them to a serving platter. Garnish with lemon slices and additional fresh herbs, if desired.
7. Serve the lemon-herb grilled lake trout with your favorite side dishes, such as grilled vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.

Fishing for lake trout in Lake Winnipesaukee can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience. With the right techniques, equipment, and knowledge of the best locations, you’ll increase your chances of success. Once you’ve caught your prize, enjoy the delicious and nutritious meal that lake trout has to offer.

By following the tips and tricks outlined in this guide, you’ll be well on your way to mastering the art of fishing for lake trout in Lake Winnipesaukee. Good luck, and tight lines!