Lake Trout

Habitat

Lake trout require cold, well-oxygenated water (below 10°C/50°F). In summer, they're found in the deepest, coldest parts of lakes—often 60-100+ feet. Spring and fall they move shallower when surface temps drop.

Seasonal Patterns

Spring: Shallow (20-40 ft) immediately after ice-out. Summer: Deep (60-100+ ft) below the thermocline. Fall: Moving shallow for spawning (September-October). Winter: Scattered throughout the water column.

Fishing Techniques

• Deep trolling: Downriggers or lead core line with large spoons
• Vertical jigging: Heavy tube jigs and spoons in deep water
• Casting: Shallow water during spring and fall turnover
• Fly fishing: Streamers in shallow water during spring

Best Lures

• Large spoons (Williams, Sutton)
• Tube jigs (4-5 inch) in white or silver
• Deep-diving crankbaits
• Jigging Rapalas and blade baits

Best Bait

• Large minnows and cisco
• Frozen smelt
• Cut bait (sucker, herring)

Alberta Regulations

Highly regulated. Many lakes have strict limits (often 0-2 fish) and size restrictions. Lake Minnewanka in Banff National Park has additional federal requirements. Always verify current regulations.

Identification

Dark green to gray with light spots. Deeply forked tail. Cream-colored spots on darker background. No pink/red coloring like other trout.

Pro Tips

• Invest in quality electronics to find suspended fish and structure
• Use slow trolling speeds (1.5-2 mph) for best results
• Fish the "magic hour" at dawn when lakers may be shallower
• Handle with wet hands and release quickly—they're cold water sensitive
• In winter, try jigging near underwater humps and points

Size Information

Average Size: 2-5 kg (4-10 lb), with fish over 10 kg common in prime waters

Alberta Record: 23.1 kg (51 lb) from Cold Lake