I've been wanting to get out and get some of those Fall monsters up shallow before they head back to their deep winter homes but time just hasn't permitted these past few weeks. I know we've had several nights now (maybe 7 out of the last 10) of nightime temps in the mid to upper 30's...how fast have the water temps cooled down? I know tonight is supposed to be down to 30 degrees with the high tomorrow of 35 degrees and even some lows in the 20's this Sunday (along with some snow) and some nights next week. I'm wondering if I should put the boat up for the winter (fog the engine etc.) or if the Fall bite is still going?

They are still shallow.  Heck some of Champlain still has fish moving up from summer depths.

@webertime what are they hitting on right now, top water? cranks, jerkbaits? How about colors?

Traps (lighter colors)

Chatterbaits (white or bk/bl)

Chartreuse (all) Spinnerbaits 

Bone spook

Chartreuse shad lucky craft pointer 100sp

 

I drop shotted a 4.9 out of 40ft on Sunday too.

@webertime have you been fishing any of the smaller lakes and ponds or just Champlain?

Arrowhead and champlain