Walleye

LOCATIONS

BODIES OF WATER

Walleye, highly sought after for their delicious flesh and challenging angling experience, can be found in various bodies of water across the North/Great Lakes region of the United States. Anglers venture to these waters in pursuit of walleye for their culinary value and the thrill of catching these elusive fish. While the following bodies of water are popular for walleye fishing in this region, it's important to note that there are many other locations where anglers can explore and target walleye:
Michigan: Lake Erie, Detroit River, Saginaw Bay.
Minnesota: Lake of the Woods, Mille Lacs Lake, Leech Lake.
North Dakota: Lake Sakakawea, Devils Lake, Missouri River.
South Dakota: Lake Oahe, Lake Sharpe, Big Stone Lake.
Wisconsin: Lake Winnebago, Green Bay, Wisconsin River.

STRUCTURE/HABITAT

Walleye thrive in a variety of freshwater habitats, including lakes, rivers, and reservoirs. They are often found near submerged structures such as rocky points, reefs, weed beds, drop-offs, and underwater humps. Look for walleye in areas with moderate current or wind-driven currents, as they prefer locations with ample oxygen and food availability. Pay attention to water temperature and clarity, as walleye exhibit different behavior in different conditions.

PATTERNS

SPRING

During the spring months, walleye move to shallower areas to spawn. Look for them near rocky shorelines, gravel beds, or sandy areas with access to deeper water. Jigging with soft plastics or using live bait rigs with minnows or leeches can be effective in enticing strikes from pre-spawn and spawning walleye.

SUMMER

In the summer, walleye often retreat to deeper waters during the day and move shallower during low-light conditions or when feeding opportunities arise. Focus your efforts near underwater structures, drop-offs, and points. Trolling with crankbaits or spinners, as well as vertical jigging with live bait or soft plastics, can be successful in targeting walleye during this season.

FALL

As fall approaches, walleye become more active and feed more aggressively in preparation for the upcoming winter. Look for them near weed edges, rocky points, or areas with current. Casting or trolling with crankbaits, jerkbaits, or spinnerbaits can be effective in triggering strikes from hungry fall walleye.

WINTER

During the winter months, walleye often congregate in deeper areas or near underwater structures. Ice fishing is a popular method for targeting walleye during this season. Focus your efforts near drop-offs, humps, or submerged vegetation. Use ice fishing jigs, spoons, or live bait such as minnows or waxworms to entice walleye under the ice.

Walleye are known to be opportunistic feeders and can be caught using a variety of baits and lures. Effective bait options for walleye fishing include minnows, leeches, nightcrawlers, and artificial lures such as crankbaits, jigs, spinners, and swimbaits. Experiment with different colors, sizes, and presentations to determine what works best for the walleye in your fishing location.