The Right Lures Make a Difference
Lake trout are built for cold and deep water. They can grow to some impressive sizes over time and in the northern fisheries these fish tend to feed more on baitfish and are known for hitting large, aggressive presentations.
At Arctic Lodges, we’ve spent years fishing the waters of Reindeer Lake and have seen firsthand what works best when targeting bigger fish. While there is no single perfect way to lure in a fish there are a handful we consistently see reduced results.
If you’re heading north, these are the lures we recommend having in your tackle box.
Spoons
If there is one lure that has stood the test of time for lake trout it has to be the spoon. Spoons have a natural wobble and flash that imitate injured baitfish which is exactly what lake trout are looking for. Specifically larger spoons tend to get the attention of bigger fish, Many northern fisheries anglers rely on them year after year because they simply keep producing. We often see success trolling spoons along drop offs, reefs, and deep structures letting them flutter down near the bottom where the trout are holding.
What to bring:
- Larger profile spoons
- Classic colours like red, white, silver, and gold
- A few brighter options for low-light or stained water
Tube Jigs
Tube jigs are one of those lures that may look simple but can be extremely incredible and effective especially when fish are holding deeper. When jigged properly a tube bait mimics a baitfish or bottom-dwelling prey, which lake trout key in on. Dropping a tube jig down and working it slowly off bottom can trigger them to strike even from fish that are less active. We often recommend white, pearl or chartreuse tubes especially when fishing in clear northern waters.
What to bring:
- 4 to 5 tubes
- Jig head between ½ oz and 1 oz
- Light and natural colours
Deep Diving Crankbaits
When lake trout move into deeper waters especially in the mid-summer, crankbaits become a great option. These lures dive down and create a steady and erratic action mimicking a fleeing baitfish. The movement combined with vibration can pull fish in from a distance. We like using crankbaits when covering water, especially along breaklines or when searching for active fish.
What to bring:
- Deep diving models capable of reaching 15 to 30+ feet
- Natural baitfish patterns
- A few brighter colours for cloudy conditions
Soft Swimbaits
Swimbaits are a go to when you want something that looks as natural as possible in the water. These soft plastic lures imitate baitfish closely and when retrieved steadily, they create a smooth swimming action that lake trout find hard to ignore. They are especially effective when fish are feeding on schools such as cisco or whitefish. We often use swimbaits around structure or when fish are suspended and actively feeding.
What to bring:
- Paddle tail swimbaits
- Jig heads suited for deeper water
- Natural colours like white, grey and silver
Flatfish Style Lures
Flatfish style lures are known for their wide rolling action and aggressive movement in the water. These lures are especially effective when trolling and they can trigger reaction strikes from larger trout. Their unique motions stand out compared to other lures making them a strong option when fish are not responding to more traditional presentations. They have been used for decades in northern fisheries and continue to be a reliable choice for anglers chasing trophy fish.
What to bring
- Larger sizes for targeting bigger trout
- Bright and high-contrast colours
- A few natural patterns to match baitfish
A Few Things to Keep in Mind
Lake trout are cold-water fish that tend to follow temperature and bait movement throughout the season.
That means the best lure can change depending on:
- Time of year
- Water temperature
- Depth
- Weather conditions
What works one day may not be as effective the next day that’s why we always suggest bringing a mix and being open to adjusting throughout your trip.
Fishing with Us at Arctic Lodges
Having the right lures is important but knowing how and where to use them can make all the difference. At Arctic Lodges, our guides spend the season tracking fish movements, adjusting to changing conditions and helping guests stay on productive water. Whether that means trolling deeper structure, jigging over shoals, or working specific areas at the right time of day, we help take the guesswork out of it. Our goal is simple: we help you spend more time fishing effectively and less time wondering what to try next.
Final Thoughts
Packing for a lake trout trip in the Sub-Arctic does not have to be complicated, but it does require a bit of planning. Bringing a mix of spoons, jigs, crankbaits, swimbaits, and flatfish-style lures gives you the flexibility to adjust to conditions and target fish at different depths. At Arctic Lodges, we see it every season. The anglers who come prepared, stay adaptable, and trust the process often find themselves connected to fish they will not forget. And when that rod loads up in deep northern water, you will be glad you packed the right gear.