Fishing Lake Willoughby

AKA: Willoughby State Park Lake

Most Popular Fish
Available Fish Species
Amenities
Today's Weather & Forecast
Boat Launch Ramps
Local Fishing Guides
Lake Willoughby Fishing Video
Fishing License
Campgrounds & RV Parks
Map
Contact Info

Lake Willoughby, VT

Popular Fish Species Lake Willoughby, VT

Rainbow Trout

This year, fishing for rainbow trout in Lake Willoughby is on the rise. Fish for rainbow trout here with worms, salmon eggs, prepared baits, small spinners, spoons, and crankbaits in vibrant colors to mimic their preferred prey. Additionally, floating or sinking flies, such as nymphs, streamers, or dry flies, are popular choices for fly anglers targeting rainbow trout. Trolling with lures or flies behind a boat, casting near shoreline structures, or still fishing with bait can all yield success. Adjusting lure size, color, and retrieve speed can enhance chances of enticing these colorful and spirited fish. When the lake freezes over, try your luck at ice fishing.

Lake Willoughby Popular Fish - Lake Torut

Lake Trout

Year round, fishing for lake trout in Lake Willoughby can be quite good and the fish are plentiful. These large trout can be caught shallow in Spring and Fall, until the water temperature exceeds about 50 degrees. The rest of the year they stay deep, sometimes as deep as 150 feet or more. It is a monumental help to use fish finders, or other electronics to help in locating these roaming schools of lake trout. They feed on baitfish, so jigs rigged to imitate their prey often work well straight down under the boat. Trolling with numerous set-ups can also produce good catches. Lake Willoughby also has a population of landlocked salmon, which are often caught using the same tactics as fishing for lake trout. When the lake freezes over, ice fishing for big lake trout with spoons and a variety of jigs that imitate baitfish, can deliver some great catches.

Yellow Perch

Lake Willoughby continues to have a very healthy population of yellow perch, which have been a mainstay in the fishery for decades. Yellow perch are great table fare, and are a food source for many predator fish in the lake as well. Fishing for yellow perch is simple, their primary diet consists of minnows and other small fish, insects and worms. Yellow perch tend to gather in small groups and hang out on relatively deep structure, near cover and/or drop-offs. Use a small hook and sinker. Bait a small hook with minnows, worms or small jigs using 6 to 10 pound line. They make for an excellent fish fry, are a food source for many of the larger predator fish in the lake, and they are fun to catch in winter when ice fishing.

Fish species to fish for...

Guide to fishing for rainbow trout, lake trout, yellow perch and landlocked salmon at Lake Willoughby in Vermont.

Considered a healthy fishery for landlocked salmon, Lake Willoughby also features trout and perch. This 1,700-acre lake is located at Westmore. There are 10 miles of shoreline.

Lake Willoughby, located in the northeastern part of Vermont, is a glacially-carved freshwater lake renowned for its breathtaking beauty and exceptional fishing opportunities. Surrounded by stunning cliffs and lush greenery, this pristine lake is a favorite destination for anglers seeking a memorable fishing experience.

Fishing on Lake Willoughby is popular throughout the year, with various fish species inhabiting its clear waters. One of the most sought-after fish species here is the rainbow trout. These vibrant and acrobatic fish provide a thrilling challenge for anglers, especially when caught on light tackle.

Another prized catch in Lake Willoughby is the lake trout, also known as "togue." These cold-water predators can grow to impressive sizes, making them a rewarding target for anglers looking to test their skills. With their deep-water habits, lake trout present a unique challenge to anglers seeking to land one of these prized fish.

Lake Willoughby is also known for its atlantic salmon population. This species is stocked in the lake, providing additional excitement for anglers who have the opportunity to reel in these powerful and elusive fish.

Yellow perch are abundant in Lake Willoughby and provide an excellent option for anglers looking for a fun and family-friendly fishing experience. These panfish are commonly found near the lake's shoreline, making them easily accessible to anglers of all ages and skill levels.

Lake Willoughby in northeastern Vermont is a gem among fishing destinations, offering a diverse range of popular fish species to challenge and entertain anglers. From the acrobatic rainbow trout and elusive lake trout to the family-friendly yellow perch, the lake provides something for everyone. With its breathtaking scenery and opportunities for boating and camping, Lake Willoughby is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a memorable and rewarding experience in Vermont's wilderness.

About half of the shoreline around the lake are developed with homes and boat docks. There is a boat launch ramp at Lake Willoughby Boat Access, located on the northeast shore. Bank fishing and boat access for portage of portables, kayaks and canoes is available at the southern tip of the lake, at Lake Willoughby South Beach.

Primary fish species residing in Lake Willoughby

Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.

Lake Willoughby Amenities

Marina: NO
Boat Rental: NO
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: YES
Lodging: YES
Convenience Store: YES
Bait & Tackle: YES
Restaurant: YES

Today's Weather & Forecast

Beyond its fishing opportunities, Lake Willoughby offers plenty of options for boating and camping. Boaters can explore the lake's deep blue waters and take in the stunning scenery of the surrounding cliffs and forests. Camping along the lake's shoreline or at nearby campgrounds allows visitors to immerse themselves in the tranquility of the natural surroundings.

Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings

Lake Willoughby Boat Access, Launch Ramp
Located in the northeast section of the lake, off State Route 5A, this is a three-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and gravel parking.