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Lake Trout

Lake Trout

Lake trout represent one of the most challenging freshwater targets in Indiana and are the largest members of the char family.

Scientific Name: Salvelinus namaycush

Also known as mackinaw, togue, grey trout

Physical Characteristics:
  • Long-lived fish that can reach substantial sizes - averaging 7 pounds but capable of reaching 25+ pounds and living 20+ years.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Found primarily in Lake Michigan and its tributaries along the northwest shoreline from Michigan City to Whiting.
  • Also present in some northern inland lakes and were historically found in inland waters through early stocking efforts (1901-1902).

Key Locations

  • Lake Michigan and its tributaries along the northwest shoreline from Michigan City to Whiting.
  • Target the Michigan City area, Trail Creek, and warmwater discharge areas like BP Whiting Refinery and NIPSCO Michigan City generating station during winter/spring months.
  • Some northern inland lakes.

Specific Spots

  • Typically inhabiting depths of 100-300 feet in Lake Michigan during most of the year.
  • During summer, focus on depths of 70-200 feet, requiring travel 6-20 miles offshore.
  • Target structure like reefs, drop-offs, and areas with current.

Lake Trout FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

What are the best lures and bait for Lake Trout in Indiana?

Large spoons (2/5 to 3/4 oz) like Little Cleos and Ko-wobblers in silver/green, chrome/green, chrome/orange, and chartreuse colors. Body baits such as Rapalas (size 7 and 9), Flatfish, and large soft-plastic swimbaits (9-10 inches) in natural colors like ghost grey or cisco patterns.

When is the best time to fish for Lake Trout in Indiana?

Spring (March-May) and fall periods are most productive. During summer, focus on depths of 70-200 feet. Spawn in fall (September-December) when they should be left undisturbed.

How do you catch Lake Trout in Indiana?

Trolling at speeds of 1.5 mph in deep water, can be increased to 3-4 mph when fish are shallow. Fish at varying depths between 15-200+ feet depending on season and temperature. Target structure like reefs, drop-offs, and areas with current.

What do Lake Trout eat?

Feed opportunistically on a variety of prey including alewives (which dominated their diet at 44-56% in studies), yellow perch, rainbow smelt, bloaters, aquatic insects, and small fish like sculpin and ciscoes. Young lake trout eat plankton and small invertebrates, while adults are primarily piscivorous.

Where do Lake Trout live in Indiana?

Found primarily in Lake Michigan and its tributaries along the northwest shoreline from Michigan City to Whiting. Also present in some northern inland lakes and were historically found in inland waters through early stocking efforts (1901-1902).

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