To seek out the best spawning points you’ll want to look
for shallow sloping sand bars or points with small rocks and gravel.
This is when the male walleye will start actively feeding. This
feeding frenzy will last around a month before and after spawning.
The bigger female walleyes are difficult to catch while the spawn
is in full swing, but can be caught during the pre-spawn.
Your best method for catching active male walleye is in early spring
fishing very slow. Fast moving bait isn’t going to attract
them as they are cold-blooded and the water temperature is what
regulates their metabolism. Wait until the late spring for your
more aggressive fishing methods.
You’ve heard of ‘Location, Location, Location’
for keying in on business opportunities, however it also applies
to late winter and early spring walleye fishing. Add ‘Presentation,
Presentation, Presentation’ to that, and you will learn that
image is key to this species of fish. Look for cover and obstacles
in some sort of pattern. Cast out and entice them to come out and
snag your bait, presenting a natural image. Typical walleye will
dart out and grab the bait, and return back to its cover to finish
the meal and await the next.
One keen difference between the walleye and other fish species
is their tendency to remain in the shallow waters throughout the
year. You’ll locate more aggressive walleyes in these shallow
regions sticking to their cover than you will in the deeper waters.
Understanding the physical properties of the water is an advantage
you should focus on. The water’s current will determine whether
the fish are holding out in groups or scattering. In strong currents
walleye tend to group up in tight patterns along structure.
Concentrate on the shallower waters and locate schools of bait
fish as this is the walleye’s main forage. The fish that are
going to get you the strikes are the ones that are keeping up with
these schools in as little as 2ft. of water.
I always say the best techniques and tactic will come from the
local anglers. Ask questions and seek advice and tips. Wet a hook
and good luck on your next walleye fishing trip.
Blake Stoffregen writes for various websites including http://www.4fishin.com,
a online fishing equipment store. He's an experienced web developer
and enjoys fishing as well.
