Openwater lakers question

[Forest]

I know there's lots of ice on the lakes, but I'm curious..
 
I have an old fishing book that suggests using cut up suckers for bait for lake trout right after ice-out when they are cruising shallower waters.
Describes it basically like cat-fishing, just cast it out and let it sit.
Does this really work? Are there specific locations that are better (flats, drop offs, points)? What type of tackle set up do you run?

Thanks

[MTJ]

Here in Montana people will cast cut bait out from shore in December on the big lake before it ices up. I think just cast out as far as you can.

[hardwaterhonkey]

I know there's lots of ice on the lakes, but I'm curious..
 
I have an old fishing book that suggests using cut up suckers for bait for lake trout right after ice-out when they are cruising shallower waters.
Describes it basically like cat-fishing, just cast it out and let it sit.
Does this really work? Are there specific locations that are better (flats, drop offs, points)? What type of tackle set up do you run?

Thanks

Dead suckers or smelt on bottom will work cast weightless pop bladder cast lures while you wait

[lowaccord66]

Yes it will work but jigging is better for numbers in my opinion.

[trapper2000]

i'd cut up the lakers and fish for suckers but thats just me

[Jomat]

They were def coming in eating our dead minnow pieces last weekend.  Suppose it could work if u were stuck on a dock.  Jigging way more fun though.

[Forest]

Thanks for the replies.
I think it would be a good trick for camping trips while staying in camp/when the water is rough.

[desmobob]

I know there's lots of ice on the lakes, but I'm curious..
 
I have an old fishing book that suggests using cut up suckers for bait for lake trout right after ice-out when they are cruising shallower waters.
Describes it basically like cat-fishing, just cast it out and let it sit.
Does this really work? Are there specific locations that are better (flats, drop offs, points)? What type of tackle set up do you run?

Thanks

Dead or cut bait sitting on the bottom works for lake trout.  I've caught them in the spring on whole dead 8" suckers sitting on the bottom.

[SeanP]

i'd cut up the lakers and fish for suckers but thats just me

Classic Trapper!!!

[greensider]

Trapper you must have never smoked them it’s like fish candy

[skinny4]

I think trapper has smoked enough as it is. I take it you have never eaten smoked suckers? Probably better than lakers. lol