Actually, the name “walleye” comes from an Indian word that means “to wink.” This is because the fish can close its eyes when it is threatened by predators, and it is a drum-family freshwater fish.
It has a mild, slightly nutty flavor and is an oily fish with a firm texture. The walleye is a native of North America’s Great Lakes and can be found in lakes, rivers, and streams all over the region.
Due to its long snout, the walleye is known scientifically as Largus Pennaeax, or “long-nosed pike jaw.”
You should check on How to catch a walleye by the Department of Natural Resources to know about where to find them in Minnesota as it is a “premier walleye fishing destination”.
Top 10 Walleye Tips
1. Walleye and Tributaries
Between spring and fall, walleye are attracted to the mouth of a tributary and the water that surrounds it. Assuming you track down a feeder, fish that region for walleye. In lakes, tributaries that are flowing in create currents.
2. Walleye Movements
Using rocky points and sand bars, walleye move from deep resting areas to shallow feeding spots. If you come across rocky points and sand bars, you might have found a good place to catch walleye. You can also go on to How to Fish for Walleye – Beginners Guide on How to Catch Walleye for a step-by-step guide.
3. Feeding Time
The best times to feed walleye are at dawn and dusk because they can see well in low light. Walleye also eat at night on points, weed beds, flats, reefs, and shallow to mid-depth shorelines.
4. Side Structures
For walleye, the wave-hit side of structures is a prime target. The waves alter the water’s surface, diffusing light and making it easier for the fish to feed. Walleye can be found on the wave-hit side of structures.
5. Calm & Sunny Days
When the weather is calm and sunny, it can be hard to catch walleye. They typically go deeper into buildings that are far from the sun. Plant shade plants to target those deep structures.
6. Vertical Jigging
Vertical jigging is one of the best methods for walleye fishing in rivers. However, heavy rain or strong winds can taint the water and deter fish from biting on jigs.
When the water is bad, try trolling the bottom. Booyah Jig Bass Fishing Lure with Weed Guard is a single jig which I recommend for anyone of you out there if you are looking for a quality jig or alternatively and what I personally use, the Sougayilang Sinking Metal Spoons Jigs/Fishing Lures or the Croch Bass Jigs which comes with skirts.
7. Trolling Spoons
Using trolling spoons is one effective method for catching walleye. However, sometimes it can be difficult to get to the core of them. To reach walleye at the required depth, use snap weights, in-line sinkers, diving planers, downriggers, or lead-core line. The fishing spoon that I personally use is the Kastmaster Fishing Spoons which I’ll say is the beast of fishing spoons, the Godfather.
Some of The Best Fishing Spoons:
| Kastmaster Fishing Spoons | QualyQualy 30Pcs Fishing Spoon Baits |
| THKFISH Fishing Spoons | PROBEROS Fishing Spoons |
| Shaddock Fishing Spoons | Hestya Fishing Spoons |
8. Late-winter or Pre-spring
In late-winter or pre-spring, when walleyes are climbing waterways to generate, fly fish for walleye utilizing sprites or yarn flies that float underneath salmon reeds or in profound openings.
9. Mayfly Hatch
It is difficult to catch walleye during a mayfly hatch. To increase your chances of catching walleye, use a mayfly rig, which consists of a small spinner and a portion of a nightcrawler on a small hook. I use the Outdoor Planet 9/12 Caddisflies/Mayfly/Attractor in these situations.
10. Live Bait
When jigging for walleye, bring a variety of live bait with you. Most people agree that minnows should be used in cold waters, while night crawlers, leeches, or soft plastics should be used in warmer waters.
However, if the water is dirty, crawlers and leeches may perform better than minnows in cold water. Similarly, in the summer heat, walleye will prefer minnows to other bait.
Conclusion
After you’ve caught your fish, remember, it is an oily fish and therefore should be kept in an oiled container to prevent the fish from drying out! This fish has a firm, white flesh and mild flavor which can be prepared in many different ways, but it is most commonly grilled or baked.
Baking walleye with salt, pepper, and garlic powder is the most common method of preparation. The seasoning will impart a pleasant flavor to the walleye while maintaining its healthfulness for consumption.
Do also check on Best Bullhead Fishing Tips and Tricks, till next time.