Walleye

LOCATIONS

BODIES OF WATER

They prefer cool, clear waters with moderate currents and are often associated with structures such as rocky shorelines, points, and drop-offs.
Maryland: Potomac river, typically north of DC. Susquehanna river: Typically as far south as the Conowingo Dam. Deep Creek Lake.
Virginia: Claytor Lake, Smith Mountain Lake, Lake Anna, New River, Shenandoah River.
West Virginia: Summersville Lake, Stonewall Jackson Lake, Tygart Lake, Cheat Lake, Ohio River.
Delaware: Not frequently found.
North Carolina: Lake Norman, Lake Wylie, Roanoke River, Cape Fear River, Falls Lake.
South Carolina: Lake Hartwell, Lake Marion, Lake Murray, Santee Cooper Lakes, Congaree River.

STRUCTURE/HABITAT

look for channels and dropoffs with currents.
Look for natural structure like points, sandbars, rocky bottom. Any sudden changes in water depth.
Walleye prefer clear water with moderate to high flow and good oxygen levels. They tend to congregate in areas of rocky shorelines, boulder fields, ledges and weed beds. They also will use structure such as logs, boulders, and undercut banks for cover.
Deep structure is a great habitat, use electronics to find lumps of holes, large submerged rocks, and trees.
Find bait schools to locate walleye nearby.
Found generally in deeper water. Learn how to find different types of structure with your electronics

PATTERNS

SPRING

During the spring, walleye move into shallower areas for spawning. Look for them near rocky shorelines, gravel beds, and areas with moderate currents. They can be more active and aggressive during this time, making it a good season for targeting them.

SUMMER

In the summer, walleye tend to move to slightly deeper waters, particularly around structures and drop-offs. They may seek cooler areas with vegetation or concentrate near areas with abundant food sources. Fishing during early mornings, late evenings, or at night can be productive during this season.

FALL

As fall arrives, walleye become more active and feed aggressively to build up fat reserves for the upcoming winter. They may move to shallower areas again, especially near rocky points, submerged structures, and creek mouths. Use a variety of baits and techniques to entice them.

WINTER

Walleye can still be caught during the winter, although they may be more sluggish. Look for them in deeper holes, near submerged structures, or along steep drop-offs. Slow presentations with jigs, live bait, or vertical jigging can be effective during the colder months.

Walleye can be caught using a variety of baits and lures. Popular choices include minnows, nightcrawlers, leeches, crankbaits, jigs, and soft plastics. Experimenting with different colors and presentations can help determine what works best in your fishing location. Walleye have excellent low-light vision, so fishing during dawn, dusk, or overcast days can increase your chances of success.