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Lake Whitefish

Lake Whitefish

Lake Whitefish are the largest of Montana's four whitefish species and are schooling coldwater fish that prefer deep lakes.

The species is just beginning to catch on as a game fish in the Flathead Lake area, though it's the most valuable commercial freshwater fish in Canada.

Scientific Name: Coregonus clupeaformis

Physical Characteristics:
  • Lake Whitefish commonly weigh 2-4 pounds with the state record at 10 pounds.
  • They have deep, flat-sided, silvery bodies with olive to light brown backs and are distinguished from other Montana whitefish by lacking a distinct notch below the pupil.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • They inhabit clear, cold lakes in northwest and north-central regions of Montana.
  • Lake Whitefish prefer deep lakes, typically found at depths of 50-90 feet.

Key Locations

  • Native only to the Saskatchewan River drainage on the east side of Glacier National Park, they've been widely introduced across northern Montana and now inhabit clear, cold lakes in northwest and north-central regions.
  • Target them in the Flathead Lake area where they're gaining popularity as gamefish.
  • They've also thrived in Fresno Reservoir despite its shallow, warm conditions.

Specific Spots

  • Target them at 50-90 foot depths.
  • Fish near structure in deeper water, focusing on areas with good plankton concentrations.

Lake Whitefish FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

What are the best lures and bait for Lake Whitefish in Montana?

Cocktail shrimp (break in half for smaller presentation), maggots, or single red salmon e.g.gs on size 8-10 hooks. Effective lures include small jigs, spoons (Dick Nite spoons work well), spinners (Mepps), and blade baits like Cicada patterns or Mack's Sonic Baitfish.

When is the best time to fish for Lake Whitefish in Montana?

Best during non-spawning periods, avoiding their October-January spawning season. Winter fishing can be productive as they remain active in cold water. Ice fishing can be effective when lakes freeze.

How do you catch Lake Whitefish in Montana?

For bait fishing, use a slip sinker rig with fluorocarbon leader. Fish near structure in deeper water, focusing on areas with good plankton concentrations. While primarily bottom feeders, they can be caught throughout the water column when following food sources.

What do Lake Whitefish eat?

Their diet shifts with age - juveniles feed primarily on zooplankton for 1-2 years, then transition to bottom organisms including gastropods, bryozoans, and organic debris.

Where do Lake Whitefish live in Montana?

They inhabit clear, cold lakes in northwest and north-central regions of Montana. Lake Whitefish prefer deep lakes, typically found at depths of 50-90 feet.

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