Walleye
Walleye are the favorite eating fish of the Upper Midwest and Great Lakes region, known for their low-light feeding and finicky bite.
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Walleye feed most actively at dawn, dusk, and after dark; spring and fall are best.
General U.S. mainland pattern. Exact timing shifts by state, latitude, and water body — always confirm seasons and closures with the local agency before you go.
Where to fish Walleye now
Public waters we tag for Walleye. Tap one to see its profile, then plan the trip.
- Bull Shoals Lake — AR
- Chatfield Reservoir — CO
- Fox River — IL · Smallmouth bass.
- Ohio River — IN
- Clear Lake — IA · Walleye and yellow bass.
- Mississippi River — IA
- Milford Lake — KS · Walleye and crappie.
- Wilson Lake — KS · Stripers and walleye.
- Kansas River — KS
- Lake Cumberland — KY · Striped bass.
- Ohio River — KY
- Lake Mille Lacs — MN · Walleye and smallmouth.
Recommended tackle
| Rod power | Medium-Light to Medium |
| Rod action | Fast |
| Reel | 2500–3000 spinning |
| Line | 8–14 lb |
| Lure types | Jigs, Deep-diving crankbaits, Live minnows, Spinner rigs |
| Rigs | Jig-and-minnow, Live-bait (Lindy) rig, Bottom-bouncer rig |
A subtle, slow presentation and fluorocarbon leader pay off on pressured walleye.
Lures & techniques
| Lure / method | When & how |
|---|---|
| Jig and minnow | The classic walleye presentation. |
| Crankbaits (deep-diving) | Trolling or casting structure. |
| Live-bait rigs | Slow-dragged along the bottom. |
| Trolling | Cover water on big lakes. |
Best seasons
Spring and fall are best; walleye feed most actively at dawn, dusk, and after dark.
Target waters
- Large natural lakes
- Rivers (e.g., the Mississippi and Columbia systems)
- Great Lakes
- Northern reservoirs
Gear & regulations
Print the full gear spec, then confirm the license and limits for the state you’ll fish.
More species
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Rainbow Trout
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Brown Trout
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Carp (Sport Angling)
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Channel Catfish
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Crappie (Black & White)
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Bluegill (Sunfish)
Lure & technique guide
Salmon (Pacific & Atlantic)
Lure & technique guide
Striped Bass (Striper)
Lure & technique guide