Tackle and Techniques for Catching Walleye

Walleye | Credit: USFWS

Catching walleye can be an exciting and rewarding experience. This post includes popular lures and techniques that are often used.

Jigs are among the simplest lures, consisting of a hook with a molded lead head. They can be fished vertically or cast and retrieved through any part of the water column.

Jigs can be tipped with live or dead minnows, worms, and leeches, or with soft plastic bodies and tails.

Crankbaits are another popular choice for walleye fishing. Typical crankbaits for catching walleye are around 4-3/4 inches in length and come in a variety of popular color patterns.

Spinners can also be effective for catching walleye.

Soft plastics can be used on their own or in combination with jigs.

Live bait rigs, such as worm harnesses, can be very effective for catching walleye.

Stick baits are another good option, especially for larger walleye.

In terms of techniques, walleye are known to be low light feeders and feed well at night but they also feed and bite during the day.

Anglers usually fish for walleye in less than 40 feet of water mainly because this is where most walleye live. Adult walleye primarily eat fish such as yellow perch, alewife, and ciscoes.

An understanding the behavior of the fish, using the right equipment, and being patient are key elements of successful walleye fishing.