Lake Trout In lake Michigan-Catch and Cook

It was a bright and early June morning as I set out on my fishing adventure on Lake Michigan. My sights were set on catching the elusive lake trout, a prized catch among salmon fishermen in the area. As I set my lines and waited for a bite, I couldn’t help but think about the delicious meal I would be enjoying later that evening. Lake trout is not only a challenging catch, but it also makes for a tasty meal. In this guide, I will share my tips and tricks for catching and cooking the perfect Lake Michigan lake trout.

Catching Lake Michigan Lake Trout

Lake Michigan lake Trout

Catching lake trout in Lake Michigan is no easy feat. These fish are known for their elusive nature and can be difficult to locate. However, with the right equipment and techniques, you can increase your chances of a successful catch. Here are a few tips:

Know the Lake: Lake trout prefer to stay in deeper, colder water. Look for areas on the lake where the water is at least 100 feet deep, with adjacent rocky flats.

Use the Right Equipment: When fishing for lake trout, it’s important to use the right equipment. A sturdy rod and reel with a test line of at least 20 pounds is recommended. Additionally, using a downrigger or wire line with with diver can help get your bait to the right depth.

Use the Right Bait: Lake trout are known to feed on a variety of baitfish, including alewives, smelt, gobies and ciscoes. Using live bait, such as minnows, can also increase your chances of a successful catch but Chrome Flashers and white spin and glows are a preferred in the summer months.

Cleaning Lake Trout

Fillet a lake Trout

Once you’ve caught your lake trout, it’s time to clean and prepare it for cooking. Here are the steps:

Using a sharp knife, make an incision along the belly of the fish from the head to the tail.

Fillet the Fish: Lay the fish on its side and make a cut just behind the gills and down to the backbone. Turn the fish over and repeat on the other side. Remove the skin and any remaining bones. Remove any excess belly fat.

Rinse with fresh water.

Preparing Lake Trout

Cooking your Lake Michigan lake trout

Once the fish is cleaned and prepared, it’s time to season and cook it. Lake trout can be grilled, baked, or fried. For a simple and delicious preparation, season the fish with salt, pepper, and lemon juice and grill for 5-7 minutes on each side. More recipes.

Serving Lake Trout

Now that your lake trout is cooked and ready to eat, it’s time to serve it up. Here are a few serving suggestions:

Serve with Vegetables: Lake trout pairs well with a variety of vegetables, such as asparagus, green beans, or roasted root vegetables.

Serve with a Sauce: A simple sauce made with lemon juice, olive oil, and herbs is a great accompaniment to lake trout.

Pair with a Wine: A crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, pairs well with lake trout.

Catching and cooking Lake Michigan lake trout is a rewarding experience for any fisherman. With the right techniques and equipment, you can increase your chances of a successful catch and prepare a delicious meal for yourself and your loved ones. Whether grilled, baked, or fried, lake trout is a versatile fish that is sure to impress. Call Captain John and book your Lake Trout Fishing Charter today!