To catch more lake trout this spring, adopt a comprehensive game plan. Here’s how

#5  FISH THOROUGHLY

Here’s how I put into practice my understanding of spring laker locations, techniques and tackle. I start by pulling up to an off-shore structure that I’ve accurately mapped, using my experience to visualize depth transition zones. I then position my boat in the optimal location to cover my top-producing spots-on-the-spot with my confidence baits. After a few casts, I vary my retrieve while still working the same areas of the structure.

Next, I systematically fish the structure, starting at the shallowest spot on the reef or hump. I work my way to the sharpest drop-off, then across the most expansive flat. From there, I move back to the edge and methodically fish toward the top. Once I’ve fished my best sections—always keeping an eye on my graph for marks—I fire a few casts into deeper water.

Based on how the trout are reacting that day, I’ll adjust my approach. As long as I know fish are in the area, I will switch between horizontal and vertical presentations and rework the same spots from different angles with different baits. The goal is to continue exploring different sections of the water column until I find a way to trigger an interaction. When I arrive at the next spot, I replicate what’s been working and adjust again as needed. This process of elimination helps me burn less gas, deepen my understanding of my favourite spots and—best of all—leave no fish behind.