Lake Whitefish

Lake whitefish inhabit deep, cold lakes, primarily the Great Lakes and Finger Lakes. They prefer depths of 40-120 feet with clean, rocky or sandy bottoms. Schooling  fish that follow seasonal depth migrations.

Lake whitefish move seasonally based on temperature and spawning. Spring (April-May): Move to shallower water as ice melts. Summer (June-August): Deep water (60-120 feet) following preferred temperature. Fall (September-November): Move shallow for spawning (10-30 feet), excellent shore fishing. Winter (December-March): Return to moderate depths, ice fishing target.

Silvery-white body with small scales. Small mouth with overhanging snout. Forked tail. Adipose fin present. Typically 1-3 lbs, can reach 6+ lbs. Distinguished from cisco by larger scales and overhanging snout.