Other names: -
The lake whitefish is a freshwater species widely distributed across North America. Recognized by its deep, compressed body and silver sides, this fish is highly valued both commercially and recreationally. Lake whitefish typically inhabit cold, deep lakes and rivers, often preferring areas with sandy or gravelly bottoms. They are known for their delicate, mild-flavored flesh and are a key target for fisheries due to their popularity as food.
Length
~51" (max 79)
Weight
~2" (max 6)
Water
Fresh
Water Temp
7-17° F
Depth
15-60 ft
Berkley Power Nymph
Bread
Bread or Dough Balls
Insects
Lindy Little Nipper
Maggots
Mayflies
Minnows
Rattle-d-Zastor
Rattlesnakie Lure-
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Lake whitefish prefer cold, deep waters and are commonly found in large lakes and rivers
They tend to stay in areas with sandy or gravelly substrates, which are ideal for their feeding and spawning activities
Their diet mainly consists of aquatic insect larvae, mollusks, and small crustaceans, although they may also consume smaller fish and fish eggs
Lake whitefish are relatively sedentary, especially in large bodies of water where they exhibit minimal movement except for seasonal migrations
Lake whitefish migrate from deep to shallow waters in the spring and fall, returning to deeper areas during the summer and post-spawning period
Spawning typically occurs in the fall or early winter, often at night, when groups of fish rise to the surface to release eggs and milt
After spawning, they move back to deeper waters, and the eggs are left to develop on their own without parental care
In colder, northern regions, lake whitefish may spawn less frequently, sometimes only every other year
