Fallfish
Fallfish are Vermont's largest native minnow species and are found throughout the state as one of the approved baitfish species. Before the introduction of bass and trout species, fallfish were often the apex predators in Vermont's streams.
Scientific Name: Semotilus corporalis
- These silvery fish can grow quite large for a minnow - averaging 7 inches but capable of reaching 15+ inches, with some exceptional specimens exceeding 19 inches.
Fishing in Vermont
Lake Champlain
Winooski River
Lamoille River
Otter Creek
Boquet River
Saranac River
Lake George
New Haven River
Schroon River
Hudson River
What to know
Habitat Distribution
- In Vermont, they're distributed widely across the Lake Champlain drainage system and are particularly common in pools and runs of various stream sizes and flow speeds in the Eastern Panhandle, as well as portions of the Potts Creek and James River drainage.
Key Locations
- In Vermont, productive locations include the Connecticut River system and various Lake Champlain tributaries.
Specific Spots
- Target deeper pools and slower-moving water during the day, then focus on shallow areas at night.
Fallfish FAQ
Answers from onWater's species guide.
What are the best lures and bait for Fallfish in Vermont?
For conventional tackle, use moving baits like spinnerbaits (Joe's Flies), Phoebe spoons, stickbaits, and top-water lures.
What flies work for Fallfish in Vermont?
Swing Isonychia soft hackles during summer hatches. Any typical streamer or crayfish pattern works well, as does dragging nymphs along the stream bottom. Fallfish readily take both dry flies during surface hatches and large wet flies and streamers at night for heart-stopping strikes.
When is the best time to fish for Fallfish in Vermont?
The best fishing occurs from late June through fall when water temperatures are elevated, as fallfish remain active while trout seek thermal refuge. Best success comes from fishing 10 AM to 3 PM during fall when fish need time to warm up, or during night sessions when they actively hunt larger prey.
How do you catch Fallfish in Vermont?
For fly fishing, swing Isonychia soft hackles during summer hatches when fallfish feed on naturals swimming toward banks. Any typical streamer or crayfish pattern works well, as does dragging nymphs along the stream bottom.
What do Fallfish eat?
They're opportunistic omnivores with a diet that changes dramatically with age - juveniles primarily eat chironomids and zooplankton, while adults over 100mm transition to small fish (including their own young), fish e.g.gs, terrestrial insects, crayfish, and aquatic insects.
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