![Laughing :lol:](./images/smilies/icon_lol.gif)
It fascinates me that many of us fail to take advantage of what Mother Nature has to offer. Water density in fresh water revolves around 39 degrees F. as the most dense. Water both colder and warmer than 39 degrees is less dense and for this discussion will therefore be assumed that it floats on top of 39. 39 Will always seek bottom if not affected by current and surges. That means that during most of the year, well over 75% of the water by volume in Lake Champlain is always 39 degrees. During which time, predators and forage enjoy relative stability. The predators' foraging slows a bit due to lower metabolism needs bur they continue to grow at an incredible rate. Forage survives due to sheer numbers. Structure is till important, as are currents, zoo plankton, etc. This is critical because as the air temperature warms and cabin fever finally wins out, we venture out looking for warm surface temperature. WHY??? Because this is where all the fish are...no... it's because we want them to be there.
We'll talk more about warming later, but for now find 39 degrees, bait, structure and you will find undisturbed feeding fish. I have preached this for many years as a true disciple of the Finger Lake Bandits in NY. To borrow a recent quote from a former tester, either go deep ... or go home.