Whitefish are a mystery fish to most anglers. A relative to the trout family, whitefish spawn in late September / early October, and spend most of the summer months in the deep, cold water associated with main lake basins. They are very prolific throughout Eagle Lake and can often be found in dense schools using your locator. Average size runs about 2-3 pounds. They are a good fighting fish and very tasty as well!

Targeting these fish is a relatively new past-time here at Vermilion Bay lodge. Over the years they have often been caught by walleye anglers early in the season. At this time of year the whitefish are roaming the shallows in search of food and can often be caught while jigging or trolling small crank-baits or spoons. It is not unusual to see them surfacing during the evening low light periods feeding on mayflies or other insects.

By far, the best time of year for catching these fish is during the summer and fall when they tend to be congregated and living in deep water. Locating fish on the sonar and presenting your bait at the appropriate depth is the key to success. They will either be bottom-oriented or suspended above the bottom. We have found 1/2 to 3/4 ounce white hair and twister tail jigs, or 2/5 to 2/3 ounce jigging spoons can be deadly. A recommended spoon is the Little Cleo in the blue & silver or green & silver pattern. This is also a great spoon for lake trout as well, and both species are often caught in similar areas. Start your search near some of the deepest water and with the steepest break-lines. Whitefish have small mouths and often you will feel them "bumping" your bait without hooking up. This is a sure sign that whitefish are in the area so stay alert for very subtle strikes. Be aware also of fish hitting your bait as it flutters back down and be ready to set the hook. Using a no-stretch line such as 10# Berkley FireLine will allow you to hook far more fish compared to ordinary mono.