Walleye Fishing for Beginners

Attention all fishing enthusiasts! Are you tired of always catching the same old fish? Are you looking for a new challenge that will test your skills? Look no further than walleye fishing! Walleye are known for their elusive nature and challenging behavior, making them a sought-after catch for anglers of all levels.

But where do you even begin with walleye fishing? How do you find them? What bait should you use? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll provide beginner anglers with tips and tricks for successful walleye fishing. From choosing the right equipment to understanding their habits and behaviors, we’ll help you become a pro in no time. So grab your gear and get ready to reel in some big ones!

Discovering the Thrill of Walleye Fishing: A Beginner’s Guide

Introduction

Walleye fishing is one of the most popular sports in North America. Also known as the “yellow pike,” walleye is a freshwater fish species that can be found in many lakes and rivers across the continent. While it may seem daunting to some beginners, walleye fishing can be an incredibly rewarding experience for those who take the time to learn about it. This beginner’s guide will provide you with all the information you need to get started on your walleye fishing journey.

The Basics of Walleye Fishing Gear

When it comes to walleye fishing gear, there are a few essential items that every angler should have in their tackle box:

• Rod and reel combo: Look for a medium-action spinning rod and reel combo that can handle 6-10 pound test line.
• Fishing line: Monofilament or fluorocarbon lines are great choices for walleye fishing.
• Jigs: Jigs are one of the most effective lures for catching walleye. Choose jigs with a weight between 1/4 and 1/2 ounces.
• Bait: Live bait such as minnows or nightcrawlers are popular choices, but soft plastic baits can also work well.
• Fishing pliers: These will come in handy when removing hooks from the fish’s mouth.

Other Optional Gear:

• Snap swivels: These can be used to attach leaders or change lures quickly.
• Fishing net: A landing net is essential if you plan on keeping your catch or want to safely release it back into the water.
• Sunglasses: Polarized sunglasses will help you see fish and underwater structures more clearly.
• Fishing hat: A hat with a brim can help protect your face from the sun and improve your vision while out on the water.

Choosing a Location for Walleye Fishing

When it comes to choosing a location for walleye fishing, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, look for areas with structure such as drop-offs, weed beds, or rocky areas. Second, pay attention to water temperature and depth. Walleye tend to prefer cooler water temperatures between 50-70 degrees Fahrenheit and can be found at varying depths depending on the time of day and season. Finally, consider whether you want to fish from shore or by boat. While both methods can be effective, fishing from a boat will give you greater access to deeper waters.

Some popular walleye fishing locations include:

• Lakes: Many freshwater lakes across North America are home to walleye populations including Lake Erie, Lake Winnipeg, and Mille Lacs Lake.
• Rivers: Rivers such as the Columbia River in Washington State or the Detroit River in Michigan are known for their abundant walleye populations.
• Dams: Dams create an ideal habitat for walleye due to their cooler water temperatures and abundance of prey species.

Techniques and Strategies for Catching Walleye

There are many techniques and strategies that anglers use when targeting walleye. One of the most popular is jigging. Jigging involves dropping a jig lure vertically into the water column and then lifting it up with short jerks of the rod tip. Another effective technique is trolling, which involves dragging lures behind a moving boat. Slow trolling is often the most effective method for catching walleye.

Other techniques to try include:

• Casting and retrieving: Cast your lure towards shore or structure and retrieve it back in with a slow, steady motion.
• Bouncing bottom rigs: This involves dragging a weight along the bottom of the lake or river with a baited hook attached.
• Drifting: Drifting involves allowing your boat to move naturally with the current while using jigs, spinners, or other lures.

Identifying Walleye Behaviors and Characteristics

Being able to identify walleye behaviors and characteristics is essential for successful fishing. Walleye are known for their unique eyesight, which allows them to see well in low-light conditions. They are also typically found in deeper water during the day and shallower water at night when they are more active.

Some common characteristics of walleye include:

• Olive-green coloration with a white belly
• Large mouths with sharp teeth
• Serrated dorsal fin
• Distinctive vertical bars on their sides

Avoiding Common Mistakes When Trying to Catch Walleye

One of the most common mistakes that beginner anglers make when trying to catch walleye is using the wrong lure or bait. It’s important to choose lures and baits that match the conditions you’re fishing in. Another mistake is not paying attention to the weather or water conditions. Walleye tend to be more active during overcast days or when there is a light chop on the water.

Other common mistakes include:

• Not setting the hook properly when you feel a bite
• Using too heavy or light fishing line for the conditions
• Not paying attention to your rod tip for subtle bites

Catching and Releasing Walleye with Care

If you plan on releasing the walleye you catch, it’s important to handle them with care. Wet your hands before handling the fish to avoid damaging their protective slime layer. Use pliers to remove the hook gently, and avoid touching their gills or eyes. If possible, release the fish back into the water as quickly as possible.

If you plan on keeping your catch, make sure to:

• Check local fishing regulations for size and possession limits
• Keep your fish cool in an insulated cooler or on ice until you’re ready to clean them
• Clean and fillet your fish as soon as possible after catching them

Resources for Learning More About Walleye Fishing

There are many resources available for anglers who want to learn more about walleye fishing. Online forums such as Walleye Central offer a wealth of information and tips from experienced anglers. Books such as “Walleye Wisdom” by Mark Martin or “In-Fisherman: Handbook of Strategies” by Steve Quinn provide detailed information on techniques and strategies. Finally, taking a class or hiring a guide can be an effective way to improve your skills and catch more walleye.

The Essential Equipment and Gear for Successful Walleye Fishing

Rods and Reels

When it comes to walleye fishing, a medium-light to medium-heavy rod is recommended, with a length of 6-7 feet. Pairing this with a spinning reel that has good line capacity and drag will help to ensure success.

Fishing Line

A good quality fishing line is essential in walleye fishing. A monofilament line with a test strength of 6-10 pounds is ideal for most situations, but braided lines can also be used in certain conditions.

Jigs and Lures

Jigs and lures are the go-to bait for catching walleyes. Popular jigs include hair jigs, leadhead jigs, and jigging spoons. When it comes to lures, crankbaits and stickbaits work well.

Live Bait

Minnows, leeches, and nightcrawlers are commonly used as live bait for walleye fishing. It’s important to keep them alive by storing them in a cool place or using an aerated container.

Finding the Perfect Spot: Tips for Choosing a Location for Walleye Fishing

Water Temperature

Walleyes prefer cooler water temperatures ranging from 55-68 degrees Fahrenheit. Look for areas where there are changes in depth or structure that allow for temperature changes.

Structure

Walleyes tend to congregate around structures such as weed beds, drop-offs, rocky points, and submerged logs. Use a fish finder or map to locate these structures before heading out on the water.

TIP:

Pay attention to the wind direction when choosing your location. Walleyes are often found on the side of the body of water where the wind is blowing.

Mastering the Art of Catching Walleye: Techniques and Strategies to Try

Jigging

Jigging involves bouncing a jig or lure up and down in the water, imitating the movement of prey. Vary the speed and depth until you find what works best for that particular day.

Trolling

Trolling involves dragging lures behind a boat at a slow speed. Use planer boards to keep your lures at different depths, increasing your chances of catching walleyes.

TIP:

Experiment with different colors and sizes of lures until you find what works best for that particular day or location.

Spotting Walleye in the Water: Identifying Behaviors and Characteristics

Eyes

Walleyes have large, reflective eyes that allow them to see well in low-light conditions. Look for their eyes just above the bottom of the water.

Movement

Walleyes tend to move slowly and deliberately, so watch for any sudden movements or changes in direction which could indicate a bite.

Avoiding Common Mistakes When Trying to Catch Walleye: Tips for Beginners

• Don’t use too heavy fishing line as it can spook walleyes.
• Avoid making noise or sudden movements when fishing as it can scare off walleyes.
• Don’t set the hook too early – wait until you feel a solid tug on your line before setting it.

Catching and Releasing with Care: Proper Handling of Caught Walleye

• Use a net to gently lift the walleye out of the water.
• Remove the hook carefully, using pliers if necessary.
• Release the walleye back into the water as quickly as possible, supporting its weight until it swims away on its own.

Resources for Learning More About Walleye Fishing: Books, Videos, and Classes

• “Walleye Fishing Basics” by Jason Mitchell
• “In-Fisherman TV” on YouTube
• Fishing charter services that offer guided walleye fishing trips with experienced guides.

TIP:

Join a local fishing club or online community to connect with other walleye fishermen and learn from their experiences.

In conclusion, walleye fishing can be an exciting and rewarding experience for beginners. With the right equipment, techniques, and knowledge of the fish’s behavior, anglers can increase their chances of success and enjoy the thrill of reeling in a prized catch.

Frequently Asked Questions about Walleye Fishing for Beginners

What is the best bait to use for walleye?
When fishing for walleye, live bait can be very effective, whether it is done through still fishing, drifting, or trolling. In clear water, a bottom-bouncing rig or slip sinker can be used to attract the attention of the fish. The most suitable live bait options are leeches, minnows, and nightcrawlers.

What is the secret to catching walleye?
Crankbaits and Soft Plastics are essential tools for catching Walleye, especially among experienced anglers. For beginners, it is recommended to start with Live Bait, using either jigging or rigging techniques to catch fish. However, if Live Bait is not an option or you’re aiming to catch big trophies, lures are the preferred method.

What is the best time to fish for walleye?
The optimal times of day to catch big walleye are at dawn and dusk, specifically 30 minutes before and after sunrise and sunset. However, walleye may still eat throughout the night. If the weather is cloudy or windy in the morning, walleye may eat for up to an hour and a half after sunrise.

What time of day are walleye most active?
Walleye are known to be more active during low light periods, particularly right before and after sunset. This makes these times popular for anglers who want to catch walleye. Walleye can typically be found swimming only a few feet above the bottom of the water.

Why is it so hard to catch a walleye?
Fishing for walleye during a sunny afternoon is considered the least ideal time. While it is not impossible to catch them, walleye prefer deep water and shade to avoid the strong sun, and they are generally less active during these conditions. As a result, adjustments to fishing strategies and locations may be necessary.

Are walleye top or bottom feeders?
Although walleyes typically eat from the bottom, it’s important not to overlook those that hang above drop-offs in deep lakes. In fact, suspended fish can provide some of the best walleye fishing in the summer. One effective technique for catching these fish is to use trolling tactics.