Overview
Lake Whitefish are also known as common whitefish, Great Lakes whitefish, Sault whitefish, humpback whitefish.
This is a very “plastic” species, with different populations taking on slightly different appearances. There are no generally recognized subspecies, but dwarf forms occur in some northern lakes.
In the Great Lakes, lake whitefish sometimes hybridize with ciscoes to produce a cross called mule whitefish, which grow faster and are a much brighter green than either of the parents. Lake whitefish also hybridize with inconnu.
Although they are not the best fighters, lake whitefish are becoming more popular, especially with ice fishermen. They can be caught on small minnows, either live or salted; teardrop jigs baited with waxworms; and small jigging lures. They respond well to chum. On calm summer mornings and evenings, whitefish feed on the surface and be taken with flies.
Eating Habits
Primarily bottom feeders, they eat insect larvae, molluscs, fish eggs, and small fish. But during a hatch, they can often be seen taking insects on the surface.
Age & Growth
Like mountain whitefish, lake whitefish have a maximum life span of about 18 years. But the growth rate is faster, so they reach a much larger size.
Table Quality
Lake whitefish are the most important commercial species in Canada. The flesh is oily but has excellent flavor. They are popular both fresh and smoked.
World Record
1940 – 14 pounds, 6 ounces, caught in Lake Huron near Meaford, Ontario, in 1984. Much larger whitefish have been taken in nets, including a 42-pounder caught in Lake Superior in 1918.
Whitefish Territory
Whitefish Trout Resorts
Manitoba
Big Whiteshell Lodge Ltd.
Northwest Territories
Hearne Lake Lodge
Ontario
Chapleau Lodge
Cianci’s Holiday North Lodge
Leisure Island Houseboat Rentals
Maynard Lake Lodge
O-PEE-CHEE Lake Lodge
Papa John’s Place
Sudbury Aviation Ltd.
Saskatchewan
B & L Cabins and Outfitters Ltd.
Cree River Lodge
Minor Bay Camps Ltd.
Yukon
Taylor’s Place
Whitefish Books
The Complete Guide to Freshwater Fishing A unique reference guide. The difficult and expensive photography of so many species in diverse locations is a one-time feat that ‘s unlikely to be repeated..
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