- Minnows are the most popular and effective live bait for walleye fishing.
- Leeches are also a great option, especially in warmer water temperatures.
- Nightcrawlers can be effective, but are often less preferred than minnows or leeches.
- Crayfish can work well in certain situations, such as when fishing in rocky areas.
- Suckers and chubs can be effective for larger walleye, but may not be practical for all anglers due to their size and cost.
If you’re looking to catch walleye, live bait is an undeniable option. But with so many types of live baits available, how do you know which one will be the most effective in reeling in your catch?
As any seasoned angler knows, choosing the right bait can make or break your fishing trip. There’s nothing more frustrating than spending hours on the water only to come up empty-handed. And let’s not forget the cost of constantly buying new bait until you find what works best. It’s enough to drive any angler insane.
But fear not! In this article, we’ll dive into the best live baits for catching walleye. Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, these tips and recommendations will ensure that your next fishing trip is a success. So grab your pen and paper (or open up your notes app) because you won’t want to miss this!
The Quick Answer:
Discover the walleye’s preferred habitat and characteristics. This freshwater fish prefers clear water with a moderate current, rocky or sandy bottoms, and cool temperatures. Known for their large reflective eyes, they are predatory fish that feed on smaller fish and can weigh up to 4 pounds. Using live bait is an effective way to catch walleye as it mimics their natural prey items.
Discovering the Walleye: Habitat and Characteristics
The Habitat of Walleye:
The walleye is a freshwater fish that can be found in North America. They are native to Canada and the United States, but they have been introduced to other countries as well. The walleye prefers clear water with a moderate current, such as rivers and lakes. They tend to inhabit deep waters but can also be found in shallow areas.
They prefer cool water temperatures between 60-70°F, which makes them more active in the spring and fall when water temperatures are cooler than during the summer months. Walleye prefer rocky or sandy bottoms where they can hide during the day and feed at night.
Characteristics of Walleye:
Walleye are known for their large eyes, which reflect light and enhance their vision in low-light conditions. They have an elongated body with a dorsal fin that extends almost to the tail. Their color ranges from olive-green on the back to golden-yellow on the sides.
Walleye are predatory fish that feed mainly on smaller fish, such as minnows, perch, and shad. They have sharp teeth that allow them to catch and swallow prey whole. The average size of a walleye is around 20 inches long and weighs about 2-4 pounds.
Fun Fact:
Did you know that walleye get their name from their eyes? The reflective layer behind their retina helps gather light in low-light conditions like dusk or dawn.
The Power of Live Bait: Catching Walleye Made Easy
Using live bait is one of the most effective ways to catch walleyes as it mimics natural prey items of this species such as minnows or leeches. Live bait increases your chances of catching a walleye and can be used in various fishing techniques such as jigging or slip-bobber fishing.
Benefits of Using Live Bait:
Using live bait has several advantages over artificial lures. Live bait moves naturally, which makes it more attractive to fish, especially walleye. It also has a scent that attracts fish from far away, making it easier for you to catch them.
Live bait is also versatile and can be used in different fishing techniques like jigging or trolling. It is easy to use and does not require any special skills or equipment.
The Best Live Bait for Walleye Fishing:
The best live bait for walleye fishing depends on the season, location, and water temperature. Some popular choices include nightcrawlers, leeches, minnows, and worms.
– Nightcrawlers are one of the most popular live baits for walleye fishing because they move a lot in the water, which makes them more attractive to fish.
– Leeches are another popular choice because they have a natural scent that attracts fish.
– Minnows are effective in colder water temperatures when other baits may not work as well.
– Worms are versatile and can be used in different fishing techniques such as bottom bouncing or drifting.
Tip:
It’s essential to choose high-quality live bait for maximum effectiveness. Make sure your live bait is lively and healthy before using it.
Top Live Baits for Walleye Fishing: A Comprehensive Guide
When it comes to walleye fishing with live bait, there are several options available that can help increase your chances of catching this elusive fish species.
Nightcrawlers
Nightcrawlers are one of the best all-around live baits for walleye fishing. They are easy to find and can be purchased at most bait shops or dug up yourself. Nightcrawlers are an excellent choice because they move a lot in the water, which makes them more attractive to walleye.
Leeches
Leeches are another popular live bait for catching walleye. They have a natural scent that attracts fish, making them effective even in murky or stained waters. Leeches can be used on their own or combined with other baits like jigs, spinners, or slip-bobbers.
Minnows
Minnows are another top choice for walleye anglers, especially during colder months when other baits may not work as well. Minnows mimic the natural prey of walleye and can be used in various fishing techniques such as jigging or trolling.
Crayfish
Crayfish are one of the most underutilized live baits for walleye fishing but can be very effective, especially in rocky areas where they naturally occur. Use live crayfish by hooking them through the tail or head and letting them crawl on the bottom.
Tip:
It’s essential to choose the right type of live bait based on factors such as season, location, and water temperature.
Choosing the Right Size and Color of Live Bait for Walleye Fishing
Choosing the right size and color of live bait is crucial when it comes to catching walleye effectively.
Size Matters:
The size of your live bait should match the size of your target fish. If using minnows, choose those that are around 2-4 inches long for optimal results. Smaller minnows work better in colder water temperatures while larger ones are more effective in warmer water.
Color Selection:
The color of your live bait is also essential. Choose colors that mimic the natural prey of walleye, such as silver or gold for minnows. Leeches come in different colors like black, brown, and green, but most anglers prefer the natural variety.
Tip:
When fishing in murky waters, use brighter colors to increase visibility and attract more fish.
Finding High-Quality Live Bait for Your Next Walleye Fishing Trip
Finding high-quality live bait can make a significant difference when it comes to catching walleye.
Bait Shops:
Bait shops are an excellent place to find live bait for your next walleye fishing trip. Most stores carry a variety of baits such as minnows, leeches, and nightcrawlers. Make sure to choose lively and healthy bait before purchasing.
Catching Your Own Live Bait:
Catching your own live bait is another option if you have access to a lake or river. You can catch your own minnows using a cast net or set up traps for crayfish or crawdads. Remember to check local regulations regarding trapping and harvesting bait fish.
Tip:
Always keep your live bait fresh by changing the water frequently and storing it in a cool place.
Rigging Your Live Bait: Techniques for Maximum Effectiveness
Rigging your live bait correctly is crucial when it comes to catching walleye effectively. Here are some popular rigging techniques:
Jigging:
Jigging is one of the most effective ways to catch walleye with live baits like minnows or leeches. Use a jig head with a hook and attach your live bait to it. Cast the bait into the water and lift and drop your rod tip to mimic natural movements of prey.
Slip-Bobber Fishing:
Slip-bobber fishing is another popular technique for using live bait. Attach a slip-bobber to your line and add weight below it. Hook your live bait through the lips or back, cast it out, and let the bobber float on top of the water. When you see the bobber move, set the hook.
Tip:
Keep in mind that walleye are more active at night or during low-light conditions, so consider fishing during these times.
Timing is Everything: When to Use Specific Types of Live Bait for Walleye Fishing
Knowing when to use specific types of live bait can make a significant difference when it comes to catching walleye effectively.
Spring:
In spring, when water temperatures are cooler, use smaller minnows in natural colors like silver or gold. Nightcrawlers and leeches can also be effective during this time.
Summer:
During summer, when water temperatures are warmer, use larger minnows or leeches in darker colors like black or brown. Crawfish are also effective during this time.
Fall:
In fall, as water temperatures start cooling down again, switch back to smaller minnows in natural colors like silver or gold. Nightcrawlers and leeches can also be effective during this time.
Tip:
Pay attention to weather patterns as they can affect fish behavior. Overcast days tend to be better than bright sunny days.
Tips and Tricks for Using Live Bait to Consistently Catch More Walleye
Here are some additional tips and tricks to help you catch more walleye using live bait:
– Use a slow and steady retrieve when jigging or trolling with live bait.
– Change the depth of your bait frequently to find where fish are feeding.
– Add scent attractants like garlic or anise to your live bait for extra effectiveness.
– Keep your hooks sharp to increase hook-ups and reduce missed bites.
– Try different rigging techniques until you find what works best for you.
Tip:
Experiment with different types of live bait until you find what works best in your local area and water conditions.
In conclusion, live baits such as minnows, leeches, and nightcrawlers are considered the best options for catching walleye due to their natural movement and scent that attract these fish. However, the choice of bait ultimately depends on various factors including water temperature, depth, and location.
Frequently Asked Questions about What Are the Best Walleye Live Baits
Do walleye prefer worms or minnows?
Because walleyes consume minnows headfirst, I am constantly worried about the placement of the line and hook within their strike zone.
Can you catch walleye with live bait?
Walleye fish have a reputation for sensing resistance and dropping live bait when they feel it. To overcome this, the slip-sinker rig is used to eliminate the resistance. When a walleye strikes the bait, the angler releases the line to allow the fish to swim away and eat the bait before setting the hook.
What is the best live minnow for walleye?
There are several types of minnows that anglers use to catch walleye, including fathead, emerald shiner, and golden shiner minnows. Creek chubs, redtail chubs, and suckers are also effective bait fish for catching walleye.
What color baits do walleye like best?
According to Gray and his team, gold-colored spinners were most effective in murky water, while black ones were preferred by walleyes in water with green algae. Generally, the gold spinner was the most productive for catching fish among casters, unless a specific water condition called for a different color. Gray believes that inland walleye are likely to have similar color preferences.
What do walleye bite best on?
There are numerous ways to catch walleye, and no single method is superior. Popular techniques include casting a jig-and-minnow, trolling live bait, using hard plastic lures for casting or trolling, and even fishing with a bobber; all of these methods have been proven successful.
What month is best for walleye fishing?
From late April to early May, fishing in certain northern states like Wisconsin will be fruitful as the water temperatures are optimal for spawning and there are ample spots to catch walleye.