Lake Champlain Angler

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  "organizationId": "23556c29-05ff-417c-8ecd-e7e8167a1392",
  "name": "Lake Champlain Angler",
  "guideName": "Captain Mick Maynard",
  "slug": "lake-champlain-angler",
  "bio": "Captain Mick Maynard has guided anglers on Lake Champlain since the early 2000s, building deep knowledge of the lake's seasonal patterns and structure. He targets smallmouth and largemouth bass, northern pike, walleye, lake trout, and panfish across spring spawning flats, summer deep-water humps, fall weed edges, and late-season rock transitions. His approach rotates with the seasons—early spring ice-out walleye and smallmouth near wintering grounds, summer lake trout suspended over deep basins, and aggressive fall pike and pickerel along vegetation. During winter months, he operates on Florida's Harris Chain of Lakes, maintaining year-round guiding opportunities.",
  "yearsExperience": 20,
  "descriptionShort": "Lake Champlain Angler is a conventional freshwater operation based in Chazy, NY, offering year-round guided trips on Lake Champlain for bass, pike, walleye, lake trout, and panfish. Captain Mick Maynard specializes in seasonal tactics across multiple species, with 20 years of local expertise and a winter operation in Florida's Harris Chain of Lakes.",
  "descriptionLong": null,
  "editorialPitch": "Captain Mick Maynard has spent 20 years mastering Lake Champlain's seasonal rhythms—from ice-out smallmouth on spawning flats to suspended lake trout in summer deeps, he reads the lake's moods and finds hungry fish in every season.",
  "fishinessRating": 4,
  "rating": null,
  "reviewCount": 0,
  "vertical": "guide_service",
  "isOutfitter": false,
  "hasMultipleGuides": false,
  "guideType": "conventional_freshwater",
  "tripStyle": "serious_angler",
  "fishingTypes": [
    "bass fishing",
    "pike fishing",
    "lake trout fishing",
    "walleye fishing",
    "salmon fishing",
    "panfish fishing"
  ],
  "bestFor": [
    "freshwater",
    "conventional",
    "intermediate",
    "advanced",
    "groups",
    "couples",
    "trophy-fish",
    "catch-and-release"
  ],
  "hasGoogleMaps": true,
  "qualityTier": "good",
  "thinData": false,
  "possiblyClosed": false,
  "city": "Chazy",
  "stateProvince": "NY",
  "countryCode": "US",
  "country": "US",
  "timezone": "UTC-4",
  "canonicalUrl": "https://lakechamplainangler.com/",
  "tripAdvisorUrl": null,
  "googleMapsUrl": "https://maps.google.com/?cid=12485640382796672731&g_mp=CiVnb29nbGUubWFwcy5wbGFjZXMudjEuUGxhY2VzLkdldFBsYWNlEAIYBCAA",
  "openMonths": [
    4,
    5,
    6,
    7,
    8,
    9,
    10,
    11
  ],
  "peakMonths": [
    5,
    6,
    7,
    8,
    9
  ],
  "fishingSeasonsNarrative": "My guiding year on Lake Champlain kicks off as soon as the ice breaks up, typically in April. This is prime time for early season smallmouth bass and walleye, which are often found near their wintering grounds or moving towards spawning areas. As spring progresses into May and June, the bass become more active, especially smallmouth which are drawn to warming shorelines and gravel bays for spawning. Northern pike and chain pickerel also become very active during these warmer months, lurking in weed edges and shallow bays.\n\nSummer on Lake Champlain brings a shift in strategy. Smallmouth bass move to deeper, structured areas like humps and shoals, while largemouth bass hold tight to the thick vegetation in bays and backwaters. Lake trout are also a prime target during the summer, found suspended over deep basins. As fall approaches, the fish begin to transition again. Lake trout become more accessible as they move higher in the water column, and the bass fishing can be excellent along weed edges and rock transitions. Late fall can still offer fantastic smallmouth action, especially on warmer days, with the added bonus of aggressive pike and pickerel.\n\nWhile the website doesn't explicitly state an operational end date, the mention of winter guiding in Florida and the ice-out report in April suggests my season on Lake Champlain runs from ice-out through late fall. The variety of species available throughout the warmer months ensures exciting fishing opportunities for any angler.",
  "meetingPoint": null,
  "providesGear": true,
  "gearNotes": "All rods, reels, tackle, and lures are provided. The guide accommodates anglers of all skill levels and welcomes clients to bring their own gear if preferred.",
  "kidFriendly": null,
  "skillLevel": "all skill levels",
  "cancellationPolicy": null,
  "licenseInfo": null,
  "whatToExpect": "Trips on Lake Champlain depart from Chazy Landing and rotate seasonally through spawning flats, deep structure, weed edges, and rock transitions depending on target species and water conditions. Spring focuses on ice-out smallmouth and walleye, summer shifts to deeper lake trout and structure-oriented bass, and fall delivers aggressive pike and pickerel action along vegetation. All gear is provided, and the captain coaches tactics throughout the day for anglers of all skill levels.",
  "status": "enriched",
  "profileTier": "standard",
  "pipelineId": 420,
  "createdAt": "2026-06-08T18:26:50.202Z",
  "updatedAt": "2026-06-08T18:26:50.202Z",
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      "issuingAuthority": "USCG",
      "licenseNumber": "100-ton",
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  "geom": {
    "type": "Point",
    "coordinates": [
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  "tags": [
    {
      "slug": "beginner",
      "name": "Beginner",
      "tagType": "ability"
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    {
      "slug": "intermediate",
      "name": "Intermediate",
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    },
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      "name": "Advanced",
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    },
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      "name": "Spin Fishing",
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    },
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      "name": "Trolling",
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    {
      "slug": "spring",
      "name": "Spring",
      "tagType": "season"
    },
    {
      "slug": "summer",
      "name": "Summer",
      "tagType": "season"
    },
    {
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      "name": "Autumn",
      "tagType": "season"
    },
    {
      "slug": "topwater",
      "name": "Topwater",
      "tagType": "technique"
    },
    {
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      "name": "Live Bait",
      "tagType": "technique"
    },
    {
      "slug": "charter",
      "name": "Charter",
      "tagType": "trip_format"
    },
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      "name": "Instructional",
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    {
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    {
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      "name": "Gear Provided",
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      "slug": "flies-provided",
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  "faqs": [
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      "question": "How many anglers can go on a charter?",
      "answer": "Prices include up to three anglers. A fourth person may be included in certain situations, at the discretion of the Captain.",
      "category": "booking",
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    {
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      "question": "What are the best seasons for fishing with Lake Champlain Angler?",
      "answer": "Lake Champlain Angler offers year-round guided trips. Captain Maynard also operates a winter operation in Florida's Harris Chain of Lakes.",
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      "sortOrder": 0
    },
    {
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      "question": "What are the charter rates for Lake Champlain Angler?",
      "answer": "Four hours – $350 (economy). Six hours – $400 (best value). Eight hours – $500 (full day).",
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    },
    {
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      "question": "What types of fishing techniques does Lake Champlain Angler use?",
      "answer": "Captain Maynard specializes in seasonal tactics for multiple species, utilizing techniques such as spin-fishing and trolling.",
      "category": null,
      "sortOrder": 1
    },
    {
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      "question": "Do you need a fishing license?",
      "answer": "Freshwater fishing licenses are the responsibility of each individual on the vessel. The Vermont license is required for most bass and pike trips as there is a great deal of productive water that is exclusive to that license only. Either New York or Vermont license options suffice for lake trout jigging in the main lake where there is a reciprocal licensing agreement between states.",
      "category": "fishing",
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    },
    {
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      "question": "Does Lake Champlain Angler provide fishing gear?",
      "answer": "Yes, Lake Champlain Angler provides fishing gear for their trips. They also provide flies if needed.",
      "category": null,
      "sortOrder": 2
    },
    {
      "id": "d58ad63b-f2e8-4b6c-bf4d-e148c4a36cdf",
      "question": "Are gift certificates available?",
      "answer": "Fishing Gift Certificates Available! Give the wholesome gift of fishing to a friend, relative or loved one. Birthdays, Christmas, Father's Day or special occasions, it's easy and quick. We can email it to you the same day!",
      "category": "booking",
      "sortOrder": 3
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    {
      "id": "a034a52c-c609-4f6c-bb2b-78615d2e81b9",
      "question": "What freshwater species can I catch with Lake Champlain Angler?",
      "answer": "You can target a variety of species including Largemouth Bass, Smallmouth Bass, Northern Pike, Walleye, Lake Trout, and panfish like Yellow Perch and Bluegill.",
      "category": null,
      "sortOrder": 3
    },
    {
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      "question": "Where do we meet for the charter?",
      "answer": "Meeting location is not explicitly stated, but the captain lives in Chazy Landing, NY. Please call Captain Mick at (518) 578-9273 to discuss details and scheduling.",
      "category": "trip",
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    },
    {
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      "question": "What kind of boat do you fish from?",
      "answer": "A stable 21′ Mako LTS with a quiet 150 hp Mercury four stroke outboard. It has a powerful bow mounted Minn Kota trolling motor with spot lock and route following options. Electronics include a Humminbird Solix 15 fish finder at the helm, a Garmin EcoMaps screen at the bow with forward facing sonar, and two 10′ Minn Kota Tallons for shallow water anchoring. Scotty downriggers are included for trolling. The center console layout allows for 360 degrees of fish fighting and landing capabilities.",
      "category": "boat",
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    },
    {
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      "question": "What species do you target?",
      "answer": "Smallmouth and largemouth bass, northern pike, walleye, lake trout, Atlantic salmon, brown trout, steelhead, chain pickerel, bowfin, and panfish like yellow perch, white perch, black crappie, sunfish, rock bass, and brown bullhead.",
      "category": "fishing",
      "sortOrder": 6
    },
    {
      "id": "77d5c0de-6758-49fa-bcec-2b62b2200fef",
      "question": "Do you provide fishing gear?",
      "answer": "The boat is fully equipped for fishing productivity, but it does not explicitly state that gear is provided. Please ask the captain.",
      "category": "gear",
      "sortOrder": 7
    },
    {
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      "question": "Is there lodging available?",
      "answer": "Get the full package! Stay on the grounds where the Captain lives. Our quaint but simple two bedroom cottage can comfortably accommodate up to four people. Inside you'll find 500 square feet of cleanliness, warmth and maritime style. A grill and new full kitchen provide the culinary options of home. A stylish bar/island compliments both kitchen and living areas. Outside you'll find two spacious decks.",
      "category": "trip",
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    },
    {
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      "question": "Is the trip suitable for kids?",
      "answer": "Reviewers mention the captain is great with kids, explaining everything step by step so they understand what they are doing and why.",
      "category": "children",
      "sortOrder": 9
    },
    {
      "id": "2fd33716-6c95-4fbd-b917-30518a12d074",
      "question": "What is the cancellation policy?",
      "answer": "Not explicitly stated. Please call Captain Mick at (518) 578-9273 to discuss details.",
      "category": "policies",
      "sortOrder": 10
    },
    {
      "id": "6ced4698-1d3b-4b96-9950-50b740d8fa52",
      "question": "Do I need to bring my own food and drinks?",
      "answer": "Not explicitly stated. Please ask the captain.",
      "category": "trip",
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  ],
  "destinations": [
    {
      "slug": "vermont",
      "name": "Vermont",
      "type": "state",
      "primary": true,
      "confirmed": true,
      "relationship": "in_region",
      "distanceMeters": null
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  ],
  "primaryDestinationSlug": "vermont",
  "accommodations": [],
  "species": [
    {
      "slug": "atlantic-salmon",
      "commonName": "Atlantic Salmon",
      "category": "anadromous",
      "availableMonths": [
        5,
        6,
        7,
        8,
        9,
        10
      ],
      "peakMonths": [
        6,
        7,
        8,
        9
      ],
      "seasonalityNotes": "Prized gamefish known for explosive runs and acrobatic leaps. They feed on smelt and other baitfish in open water, making them a challenging target for trolling.",
      "notes": null
    },
    {
      "slug": "crappie",
      "commonName": "Crappie",
      "category": "freshwater",
      "availableMonths": [
        4,
        5,
        6,
        7,
        8,
        9,
        10,
        11
      ],
      "peakMonths": [
        5,
        6,
        10,
        11
      ],
      "seasonalityNotes": "Aggressive cousins of striped bass that often travel in large schools, providing fast action when located.",
      "notes": null
    },
    {
      "slug": "yellow-perch",
      "commonName": "Yellow Perch",
      "category": "freshwater",
      "availableMonths": [
        4,
        5,
        6,
        7,
        8,
        9,
        10,
        11
      ],
      "peakMonths": [
        4,
        5,
        10,
        11
      ],
      "seasonalityNotes": "Sought-after table fish known for their mild flavor and schooling behavior. Provide steady action for anglers of all ages.",
      "notes": null
    },
    {
      "slug": "largemouth-bass",
      "commonName": "Largemouth Bass",
      "category": "freshwater",
      "availableMonths": [
        5,
        6,
        7,
        8,
        9,
        10
      ],
      "peakMonths": [
        6,
        7,
        8,
        9
      ],
      "seasonalityNotes": "Thriving in weedy bays and protected backwaters, largemouth bass prefer thick vegetation, docks, and lily pads. They are ambush predators that provide powerful fights, with trophies over 6 pounds caught regularly.",
      "notes": null
    },
    {
      "slug": "smallmouth-bass",
      "commonName": "Smallmouth Bass",
      "category": "freshwater",
      "availableMonths": [
        4,
        5,
        6,
        7,
        8,
        9,
        10,
        11
      ],
      "peakMonths": [
        5,
        6,
        7,
        8,
        9
      ],
      "seasonalityNotes": "Lake Champlain is a premier smallmouth fishery. In spring, they are found on rocky shorelines and spawning flats. Summer sees them moving to mid-lake humps and shoals, while fall brings them to deep rock transitions. They are known for their strong fight and seasonal movements.",
      "notes": null
    },
    {
      "slug": "chain-pickerel",
      "commonName": "Chain Pickerel",
      "category": "freshwater",
      "availableMonths": [
        4,
        5,
        6,
        7,
        8,
        9,
        10,
        11
      ],
      "peakMonths": [
        5,
        6,
        7,
        8,
        9,
        10
      ],
      "seasonalityNotes": "Aggressive, shallow-water predators found in weedy bays and marshes. They provide fast action and are known for their quick strikes and nervous fights, making them a fun target for anglers.",
      "notes": null
    },
    {
      "slug": "bluegill",
      "commonName": "Bluegill",
      "category": "freshwater",
      "availableMonths": [
        5,
        6,
        7,
        8,
        9,
        10
      ],
      "peakMonths": [
        6,
        7,
        8
      ],
      "seasonalityNotes": "Abundant in warm shallows, these are often the first fish caught by young anglers.",
      "notes": null
    },
    {
      "slug": "bowfin",
      "commonName": "Bowfin",
      "category": "freshwater",
      "availableMonths": [
        5,
        6,
        7,
        8,
        9,
        10
      ],
      "peakMonths": [
        6,
        7,
        8
      ],
      "seasonalityNotes": "Native, ancient predators found in shallow weedy bays, backwaters, and marshes. They are aggressive feeders and provide a surprisingly strong fight with violent headshakes.",
      "notes": null
    },
    {
      "slug": "bullhead-catfish",
      "commonName": "Bullhead Catfish",
      "category": "freshwater",
      "availableMonths": [
        5,
        6,
        7,
        8,
        9,
        10
      ],
      "peakMonths": [
        6,
        7,
        8
      ],
      "seasonalityNotes": "Commonly found on the bottom in muddy bays and river mouths, a traditional Lake Champlain fish fry favorite.",
      "notes": null
    },
    {
      "slug": "walleye",
      "commonName": "Walleye",
      "category": "freshwater",
      "availableMonths": [
        4,
        5,
        6,
        7,
        8,
        9,
        10
      ],
      "peakMonths": [
        4,
        5,
        6,
        9,
        10
      ],
      "seasonalityNotes": "Prized coolwater predators found near rocky structure, river mouths, shoals, and drop-offs, especially during spring spawning runs. They are powerful fighters and highly regarded for their firm, mild fillets.",
      "notes": null
    },
    {
      "slug": "lake-trout",
      "commonName": "Lake Trout",
      "category": "freshwater",
      "availableMonths": [
        4,
        5,
        6,
        7,
        8,
        9,
        10,
        11
      ],
      "peakMonths": [
        4,
        5,
        9,
        10,
        11
      ],
      "seasonalityNotes": "Coldwater natives found in deep basins, feeding on smelt and alewives. They are powerful, steady fighters known for long runs and deep dives. Champlain supports a strong population with trophy potential.",
      "notes": null
    },
    {
      "slug": "northern-pike",
      "commonName": "Northern Pike",
      "category": "freshwater",
      "availableMonths": [
        4,
        5,
        6,
        7,
        8,
        9,
        10,
        11
      ],
      "peakMonths": [
        5,
        6,
        7,
        8,
        9,
        10
      ],
      "seasonalityNotes": "Apex predators found along weed edges, shallow bays, and transition zones. They strike explosively and deliver powerful runs. Lake Champlain consistently produces quality pike with trophy potential.",
      "notes": null
    },
    {
      "slug": "brown-trout",
      "commonName": "Brown Trout",
      "category": "freshwater",
      "availableMonths": [
        5,
        6,
        7,
        8,
        9,
        10
      ],
      "peakMonths": [
        6,
        7,
        8,
        9
      ],
      "seasonalityNotes": "Strong, adaptable predators thriving in cool waters, feeding heavily on smelt and perch. Prized for their strength, endurance, and willingness to strike.",
      "notes": null
    }
  ],
  "reviews": [],
  "avgRating": null,
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      "altText": "Captain Mick Maynard hoists a double digit Lake Champlain northern pike",
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