Strong fighters, walleyes stay deep and wage a determined battle. They bite best around dusk and dawn due to their light-sensitive eyes. Cloudy weather is also a good time for walleye fishing. Minnows, nightcrawlers, leeches, jigs, spinners, and plugs are popular baits for fishing walleye.

Most numerous in large, windswept natural lakes of moderate to low clarity. They can also be found in smaller lakes, reservoirs, and rivers and streams with moderate current. Walleyes prefer clean, hard bottoms and water temperature from 65 to 75 degrees F.

Eating Habits

Primarily fish eaters, walleyes also feed on immature and adult aquatic insects, leeches, crayfish, snails, and larval salamanders. Except in waters of low clarity, they feed most heavily in dim-lit periods, especially when light levels are fading rapidly.

Age & Growth

Walleyes have been known to live as long as 26 years. Females typically grow much larger than males.