Technique: Jigging in Open Water – On The Water
Lake Champlain is a 271,000-acre natural freshwater lake located between the states of New York and Vermont that extends north into the Canadian province of Quebec. The lake boasts a diverse bass fishery and hosts many large-scale bass tournaments every year. Outdoor photographer, writer, and fishing industry professional Justin Brouillard fishes the big lake all season, but his favorite tactic is working jigs in open water from July to September.
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“Growing up in Vermont, I’ve had the privilege to fish one of the most unique fisheries in the country. Lake Champlain offers the opportunity of 100-fish days for largemouth and smallmouth bass, with a number of large fish as well. One of my favorite techniques is targeting offshore smallmouth in July and September with a Beast Coast Open Water Sniper Jig paired with a small swimbait trailer. This is a special jig because of the lack of weed guard, and it’s compact but still has a beefy hook for a finesse presentation. I pair it with a 2.8-inch Keitech Swing Impact swimbait or a 2.85-inch Slow Flow by Beast Coast.
I look for offshore points, humps, boulders, and breaks where I can slow-drag the jig on long casts. The swimbait trailer is effective because it lets me keep the jig moving with steady action while imitating baitfish extremely well. When I know the fish are on the bottom, this is my go-to technique. Try this technique in July, when the fish are post-spawn and making their way offshore. I also love this in September when the bass are still offshore but are more actively looking for baitfish.”
Justin’s Go-To Gear for Jigging Champlain
Gear: 7’5” MH Fast Action Daiwa Tatula Elite Casting Rod
Line: Daiwa Samurai 15-pound Fluorocarbon
Bait: Beast Coast Open Water Sniper Jig
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