It can be said that the first focus of fishermen as winter turns to spring are walleye, but in order to be successful at snaring them, one needs to learn a few tips and tricks first.
First it is important to learn their spawning habits. In the northern states, the spawning period for walleye can be anywhere from mid-April to mid-May. This depends on how early the warm weather starts in the spring.
Keep in mind that walleye do not spawn at the same time. Some start early, but the majority wait until the conditions are ideal, and some procrastinate and don’t spawn until late in the spring.
Now the question to ask yourself is, what are the ideal conditions walleye need before they start spawning?
The two most important things needed are water temperature and rock or rubble shore lines.
Water temperature is an important factor because it not only starts the spawning activity, but it plays a role in maximum reproduction. Walleye need the water to warm slowly and constantly without temperature swings or wave action. This is most important during the gestation and hatching period.
Rock or rubble shorelines are also extremely important due to the fact that this type of structure can provide a successful hatch. How does this happen? Well if walleye spawn on this type of structure, the eggs have something uneven to fall into, therefore protecting them from predators that like to feed on the eggs.
Now it is important to know where the spawning takes place. The North and East shorelines are the most popular locations for walleye because these shorelines get the hottest sun of the day, which warms the water and makes the conditions ideal for spawning.
After walleye are through spawning, they move to the deepest structure to rest for about four to ten days. When their rest period is complete, they move back to their spawning areas to feed. This is when walleye fishing is at its best.
Walleye like to keep to the shallow points and shorelines. So you may find that you will have better luck leaving your boat behind and fishing from shore or from the pier.
Picking the right equipment is extremely important when fishing for walleye as they are extremely picky. Some suggested bait and tackle are listed below:
· Rigs with live bait or live bait with slip bobbers.
· Minnows and night crawlers or insect larvae (e.g. Marabou jigs or similar lures).
Now all you need to know is the right time to snag these elusive fish. It is said that nighttime is the best time to catch walleye. This is true because walleye are notorious for being nighttime feeders. This is due to the fact that during the day there is tons of boat activity which scares the fish off.
When the aquatic world turns black, walleye come out to feed. Night is when the predators prey and you can include yourself among them to guarantee fishing success.
Remember nighttime is the right time for catching walleye in the spring. Keep repeating this as your mantra and you will become a fishing superstar.
