Here’s a look at the best of the best fishing spots in Vermont for September that every angler should know about.
Table of Contents
1. Lake Champlain – Vermont’s Fishing Giant
Lake Champlain isn’t just Vermont’s largest lake—it’s also a dream destination for anyone serious about fishing in September.
Stretching across 120 miles, this massive body of water is home to over 80 species of fish, making it one of the most diverse fishing ecosystems in the region.
In early fall, cooler waters bring smallmouth and largemouth bass closer to the shallows, while northern pike and walleye remain active across the deeper stretches.
September is also prime time for landlocked Atlantic salmon, which adds an exciting twist for anglers.
Pair the fishing with the breathtaking backdrop of Adirondack and Green Mountain foliage, and you’ll find Lake Champlain is much more than just a fishing trip—it’s a fall escape.
Best Time in September: Mid to late September mornings are especially productive for salmon and bass.
Target Species: Smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, northern pike, walleye, salmon.
Access & Facilities: Multiple boat launches, marinas, and shore-fishing spots around Burlington and South Hero.
Rules & Regulations: Be aware of seasonal limits on salmon; check Vermont Fish & Wildlife guidelines.
Local Insider Tip: Locals swear by fishing the eastern shoreline early morning for aggressive bass strikes.
Nearby Attractions: After fishing, explore Burlington’s waterfront or take a scenic drive along the Lake Champlain Byway.
Permit Costs: A Vermont fishing license is required ($28 residents, $54 non-residents for a season; $8 daily pass).
2. Battenkill River – A Fly-Fishing Favorite
For fly-fishing enthusiasts, the Battenkill River is Vermont’s crown jewel. Winding through the southern part of the state and into New York, this river is famed for its wild brown and brook trout population.
September offers ideal conditions here—the water cools down, trout become more active, and the crowds thin out, leaving you with peaceful stretches to cast your line.
The Battenkill’s clear water and rocky runs demand skill and patience, but that’s exactly why seasoned anglers love it.
Add in the charming New England villages along the riverbanks, and you’ve got the perfect mix of sport and scenery.
Best Time in September: Early to mid-September, when trout are actively feeding in cooler flows.
Target Species: Wild brown trout, brook trout.
Access & Facilities: Parking and access points near Arlington and Manchester villages.
Rules & Regulations: Certain sections are catch-and-release only; artificial flies and lures required.
Local Insider Tip: Locals recommend using streamers just after sunrise for trophy browns.
Nearby Attractions: Spend the afternoon strolling Manchester’s historic downtown or visiting covered bridges.
Permit Costs: Standard Vermont fishing license required.
3. White River – A Scenic Trout Haven
The White River cuts through central Vermont and offers one of the most scenic fishing experiences in the state.
Known for its healthy population of rainbow and brown trout, it’s a favorite for both fly and spin anglers.
In September, the river flows are stable, and the cooler temperatures make for active trout all day long.
Many anglers also find this month great for exploring its tributaries, which are often teeming with smaller but feisty fish.
The White River is also popular for its accessibility—multiple entry points along its course make it easy to plan a day of fishing without needing to hike long distances.
Best Time in September: Mid-September afternoons when the sun warms the water slightly.
Target Species: Rainbow trout, brown trout.
Access & Facilities: Easy roadside pull-offs and wading points along Route 14 and I-89.
Rules & Regulations: General trout regulations apply; some tributaries may have seasonal closures.
Local Insider Tip: Anglers find success drifting nymphs in shaded pools during bright afternoons.
Nearby Attractions: Stop by Bethel or Royalton for small-town charm and local diners.
Permit Costs: Vermont fishing license required.
4. Clyde River – A Northern Gem
Head up to Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom, and you’ll find the Clyde River, a spot that holds a reputation for excellent trout and salmon fishing.
This river is particularly well-known for its runs of landlocked Atlantic salmon, which become more active during the cooler fall months.
September fishing here is both exciting and rewarding—salmon often migrate upstream, giving anglers the thrill of hooking into a hard-fighting fish.
The Clyde also offers brook trout and brown trout in different stretches, making it a versatile choice.
Combine the fishing action with the region’s remote, forested beauty, and it’s no wonder the Clyde River ranks among the top fishing destinations in Vermont.
Best Time in September: Late September when salmon make their upstream runs.
Target Species: Landlocked Atlantic salmon, brook trout, brown trout.
Access & Facilities: Public access points near Newport with shore-fishing stretches.
Rules & Regulations: Special salmon regulations apply; check daily limits.
Local Insider Tip: Evening fishing near Newport is prime time for salmon activity.
Nearby Attractions: Explore Lake Memphremagog’s shoreline or hike the Northeast Kingdom trails.
Permit Costs: Vermont fishing license required.
5. Otter Creek – Vermont’s Hidden Powerhouse
While Otter Creek may not have the fame of Lake Champlain, it’s one of Vermont’s most productive and underrated fisheries.
Stretching nearly 112 miles through the state, this waterway is full of opportunities for anglers of all kinds.
In September, Otter Creek comes alive with trout, bass, and pike activity. The cooler waters help fish move more freely, and anglers often find success near Middlebury, where the river’s structure creates excellent habitat.
What makes Otter Creek particularly appealing is the variety—you never quite know what you’re going to catch, which keeps every cast exciting.
Best Time in September: Early September mornings are excellent for bass and pike, while trout pick up later in the month.
Target Species: Brown trout, rainbow trout, smallmouth bass, northern pike.
Access & Facilities: Fishing access points around Middlebury and Vergennes with easy parking.
Rules & Regulations: General fishing rules apply; pike have size and bag limits.
Local Insider Tip: Middlebury Falls area is a hotspot for both trout and bass in cooler weather.
Nearby Attractions: Walk Middlebury’s historic downtown or visit local craft breweries.
Permit Costs: Vermont fishing license required.
Conclusion
Vermont in September is a dream for anglers—a season when rivers and lakes come alive, fish feed actively, and the scenery is nothing short of spectacular.
Whether you’re drawn to the sprawling waters of Lake Champlain, the fly-fishing challenge of the Battenkill, or the wild beauty of the Clyde, these five destinations represent the best of the best fishing spots in Vermont this fall.
Read More: 5 Best Camping Spots in Vermont for September
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