Lake Whitefish
Lake Whitefish are native coldwater fish in New Hampshire, though they may only be truly native to Lake Winnipesaukee, with other populations established through 1800s stocking programs.
These schooling fish prefer deep, cold, oligotrophic waters with high oxygen content.
Scientific Name: Coregonus clupeaformis
- These elongated silvery fish have distinctive small, toothless mouths and hump-like appearances due to their small heads relative to body size.
- They develop conical tubercles during spawning season and are easily identified by large scales that slough off when handled.
- In New Hampshire waters, they typically weigh 1-2 pounds, though capable of reaching 20 pounds elsewhere.
Fishing in New Hampshire
Merrimack River
Contoocook River
Great Bay
Lake Winnisquam
Lake Winnipesaukee
Piscataqua River
Sunapee Lake
Pemigewasset River
Bellamy River
Squam Lake
What to know
Habitat Distribution
- These schooling fish prefer deep, cold, oligotrophic waters with high oxygen content.
Key Locations
- Currently found in Lake Winnipesaukee, Squam Lake, Winnisquam Lake, Lake Wentworth, Silver Lake (Madison), Ossipee Lake, and the Connecticut Lakes.
- Ice fishing through the winter months can be highly productive, as demonstrated by catches on Squam Lake.
Specific Spots
- They remain in deep waters (40-130 feet) during summer months, making seasonal migrations to shallows in spring for feeding and fall for spawning.
Lake Whitefish FAQ
Answers from onWater's species guide.
What are the best lures and bait for Lake Whitefish in New Hampshire?
Jigs tipped with small baits, fish e.g.gs, small minnows, wax worms, and small insects.
When is the best time to fish for Lake Whitefish in New Hampshire?
Lake Whitefish fishing in New Hampshire is legal from January 1 to September 30. Ice fishing through the winter months can be highly productive. Summer fishing requires targeting deep, cool water areas where they retreat from surface warming.
How do you catch Lake Whitefish in New Hampshire?
Jigs tipped with small baits are effective, particularly when fished near the bottom. Small beadhead nymphs like Prince Nymphs or Copper Johns work well for fly fishing, requiring enough weight to reach bottom where they feed.
What do Lake Whitefish eat?
They feed primarily on small invertebrates, fish e.g.gs, zooplankton, and occasionally small fish like smelt, though their delicate mouths limit prey size.
Where do Lake Whitefish live in New Hampshire?
These schooling fish prefer deep, cold, oligotrophic waters with high oxygen content.
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