How to Catch Walleye in the Summer

Summer is here, and the hot sun is beating down on the water. You’ve packed your bait and gear, and you’re ready to catch some walleye. But wait, where do you start? Fishing for walleye in the summer can be a challenge, but with the right technique and equipment, you can reel in a trophy-sized catch.

As an experienced angler, I understand the frustration of spending hours on the water without getting a single bite. It’s not just about luck; it’s about knowing how to target walleye during their summer patterns. Whether you’re fishing from shore or a boat, there are key factors to consider when trying to catch this elusive species.

In this article, I’ll share my expert tips on how to catch walleye in the summer. From choosing the right lures and baits to understanding their preferred habitat and feeding habits, I’ll cover everything you need to know for a successful day on the water. So grab your rod and let’s get started!

Best Locations to Find Walleye in the Summer

Walleye is a freshwater fish species that can be found in many different types of bodies of water, including lakes, rivers, and reservoirs. During the summer months, walleye tends to move into deeper waters where they can find cooler temperatures and more abundant food sources. Here are some of the best locations to find walleye during the summer:

Lakes

Lakes with clear water tend to be great places to find walleye during the summer months. Walleye likes to feed on small baitfish like minnows, which often congregate around submerged structures like weed beds or drop-offs. Look for areas where there is a sharp change in depth or underwater structure as these areas are more likely to hold walleye.

Rivers

In rivers, look for areas with slow-moving currents or deep pools. Walleye will often move into these areas during the summer months when water temperatures rise. Cast your line near rocks or other underwater structures where walleyes may be hiding.

Reservoirs

Reservoirs can be excellent locations for finding walleye during the summer due to their size and complexity. Look for deep channels or river channels that run through the reservoir as these areas are likely to hold walleye. Additionally, rocky shorelines or points can also provide good habitat for this species.

Tips:

• Use a fish finder device to locate schools of baitfish which attract walleyes.
• Check out local fishing reports and talk with other anglers who have fished in the area before you go.

Note:

It is important to check local fishing regulations and permits before going fishing in any body of water.

How Water Temperature Affects Walleye Behavior During the Summer Months

Water temperature plays a significant role in the behavior of walleye during the summer months. As water temperatures rise, walleye will move into deeper waters where they can find cooler temperatures and more abundant food sources. Here are some ways that water temperature affects walleye behavior:

Feeding Habits

In warmer water, walleye tends to feed more actively at night or during low-light conditions as it becomes difficult for them to find food in bright light. In contrast, in cooler water, walleyes feed actively throughout the day. Therefore, early morning and late evening are prime times for catching walleyes during hot weather.

Movement and Habitat

In general, as water temperatures rise above 70°F (21°C), walleyes tend to move into deeper waters where there is more oxygen available. This is because warm water has less dissolved oxygen than cool water. Additionally, walleye may seek out underwater structures like submerged logs or rocks which provide shade from the sun’s rays.

Tips:

• If you’re not having luck catching Walleye in one spot move around until you locate fish.
• Paying attention to other fish species like smallmouth bass can help indicate where Walleye might be located.

Most Effective Bait and Lures for Catching Walleye in the Summer

The type of bait and lures used for catching walleye during the summer months can vary depending on several factors such as time of day, water temperature, and location. Here are some of the most effective bait and lures for catching walleye during the summer:

Live Bait

Minnows are one of the most popular live baits used for catching walleye in the summer months. You can use a jig head or a slip bobber to fish with minnows. Additionally, leeches and nightcrawlers can also be effective baits for this species during hot weather.

Jigs

Jigs are versatile lures that can be used in various conditions to catch walleye. In warmer water, try using lighter-colored jigs like white or chartreuse as they tend to be more visible to fish in low light conditions. Additionally, using a jig with a soft plastic tail mimics the movement of baitfish which can entice strikes from walleyes.

Crankbaits

Crankbaits are another effective lure for catching walleye during the summer months. Look for crankbaits that have a diving lip which allows them to dive deep into the water column where walleyes may be hiding.

Tips:

• Change up your bait and lures frequently until you find what works best on that day.
• Use scent attractants on your bait such as Berkley Gulp! Alive attractant or Pro-Cure Walleye Super Gel Scent.

Fishing Techniques to Target Walleye in Deeper Waters During the Summer

During the summer months when water temperatures rise, walleyes tend to move into deeper waters where there is more oxygen available. Here are some fishing techniques you can use to target walleye in deeper waters:

Trolling

Trolling is a technique where you slowly pull your lure or bait behind a moving boat. This technique can be effective for targeting walleye in deeper waters. Try using crankbaits or spinnerbaits when trolling for walleyes.

Bouncing Jigs

Bouncing jigs is a technique where you cast your jig to the bottom and then slowly bounce it along the bottom as you retrieve it back to the boat. This technique can be effective for catching walleye in deep water where they may be feeding on the bottom.

Drift Fishing

Drift fishing involves drifting with the wind or current while casting lures or bait into the water. This technique can be effective for targeting walleyes in deep water, especially around submerged structures like rocks or weed beds.

Tips:

• Use a fish finder device to locate schools of baitfish which attract walleyes.
• Try different techniques until you find what works best on that day.

Best Times of Day to Catch Walleye in the Summer

The best times of day to catch walleye during the summer months are early morning and late evening when water temperatures are cooler, and there is less light penetrating the water’s surface. During these times, walleyes tend to move into shallower waters where they are more accessible to anglers.

In addition to early morning and late evening, other factors can influence when walleye are most active during hot weather. For example, if there is cloud cover or light rain, walleyes may feed more actively throughout the day as it provides them with cover from bright sunlight.

Tips:

• Pay attention to weather patterns and adjust your fishing times accordingly.
• Fishing during a full moon can also be productive as it provides more light at night for walleyes to feed.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Trying to Catch Walleye in the Summer

When trying to catch walleye during the summer months, there are some common mistakes that anglers make which can decrease their chances of success. Here are some mistakes to avoid:

Casting Too Far

Walleye tends to concentrate in shallower waters during early morning and late evening when water temperatures are cooler. Casting too far from shore or into deep water may result in less success when trying to catch this species during hot weather.

Moving Too Quickly

When using trolling or drifting techniques, moving too quickly can cause lures or bait to pass by walleyes before they have a chance to bite. Slow down your boat’s speed and use lighter lures or bait if necessary to give walleye enough time to strike.

Using Incorrect Lures/Bait

The type of lure or bait you use for catching walleye during the summer months should be based on several factors such as water temperature, time of day, and location. Not using the correct lure/bait can result in fewer bites and less success when fishing for this species.

Tips:

• Change up your technique and bait frequently until you find what works best on that day.
• Talk with other anglers or read local fishing reports for tips on what is working well in the area you are fishing.

Identifying Areas with Strong Currents or Underwater Structures that Attract Walleye During the Summer

Walleye tends to congregate around certain underwater structures or areas with strong currents during the summer months. Here are some tips for identifying these areas:

Underwater Structures

Walleyes tend to be attracted to underwater structures like weed beds, drop-offs, and submerged logs or rocks. Look for areas where there is a sharp change in depth or where these structures break up the current flow as these areas are more likely to hold walleye.

Strong Currents

Walleyes tend to concentrate in areas with strong currents during hot weather because it provides them with oxygen-rich water and an abundance of food sources like baitfish. Look for areas where there is a steep drop-off or where two currents converge as these areas can be productive for catching walleye.

Tips:

• Use a fish finder device to locate schools of baitfish which attract walleyes.
• Paying attention to other fish species like smallmouth bass can help indicate where walleye might be located.

Safety Precautions When Fishing for Walleye in Hot Weather

Fishing for walleye during hot weather can be enjoyable but also comes with some risks. Here are some safety precautions anglers should take when fishing during the summer months:

Stay Hydrated

Drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated, especially when fishing in direct sunlight or high temperatures. Dehydration can lead to heat exhaustion or heatstroke, which can be dangerous if left untreated.

Wear Sun Protection

Wear a hat, sunglasses, and apply sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun’s harmful UV rays. Exposure to the sun can cause sunburn, skin cancer and other health issues.

Be Aware of Thunderstorms

During the summer months, thunderstorms can develop quickly and pose a danger to anglers out on the water. Keep an eye on weather forecasts and be prepared to seek shelter if necessary.

Tips:

• Fishing with a partner can help keep you safe and provide assistance in case of an emergency.
• Dress appropriately for the weather conditions and bring extra clothing in case of unexpected changes in weather.

In conclusion, with the right techniques and equipment, catching walleye in the summer can be an exciting and rewarding experience for any angler.

Frequently Asked Questions about How to Catch Walleye in the Summer

What is the best bait for walleye in the summer?
When it comes to catching walleye fish, the three most widely used live bait options are undoubtedly minnows, leeches, and nightcrawlers.

What depth should I fish walleye in summer?
Walleye fish are usually caught at a depth of 10-40 feet. In a moderately sized lake in the Midwest, it is common to find Walleye at depths of 10-15 feet in the spring, 15-25 feet as they transition into summer, and 25-40 feet during the summer season. This information was last updated on September 24, 2018.

How do you catch walleye in a river in the summer?
To catch walleye in a river, jigging is a popular technique that involves either vertical jigging or pitching jigs towards the river bank and reeling them back to the boat. However, as the summer progresses and the water temperature increases, the efficacy of jigging decreases. In these situations, trolling becomes a more effective method.

What is the best technique to catch walleye?
Using small hard plastic baits that resemble perch and other small prey fish is a common technique for catching walleye in the fall when they return to shallow waters and are scattered. Trolling is a convenient method for covering large areas quickly.

What time do walleye bite best?
The optimal times to catch big walleye are at dawn and dusk, specifically the half-hour before and after sunset and sunrise. However, walleye are known to feed throughout the night. On mornings with cloudy or windy conditions, walleye may continue feeding for up to 90 minutes after sunrise.

What time of day are walleye most active?
Walleye fish tend to be more active and feed during low-light periods, such as at sunrise and sunset. As a result, many anglers choose to fish for walleye during these times. Walleye fish are typically found near the bottom, within a depth of one or two feet.