When you’re Walleye fishing, choosing the right bait is among the most important decisions you’ll make. These fish are known for their selective feeding habits, so using the appropriate bait can go a long way toward increasing your odds at success.
Walleye tend to respond to different baits depending on various factors, including water temperature, forage ability, and their activity level. Understanding these factors will allow you to select the bait that best matches the conditions you’re fishing in. It doesn’t matter if you prefer live bait or artificial lures, this guide will help you choose the right option to maximize your catch.
Live Bait Options for Walleye
Live bait is a classic choice for walleye fishing, particularly during the cooler months of spring and fall when walleye are more active. Here are some of the most effective live baits for walleye:
Minnows
Minnows are a staple for walleye anglers, especially in the early spring and late fall. Their natural movement and scent make them irresistible to walleye. Smaller minnows will work well in cold water, while larger ones are ideal in warmer weather conditions. Hook minnows through the lips or back to allow them to swim naturally, as that will increase the effectiveness.
Leeches
Leeches are a versatile bait that can be used all through the summer. They’re particularly effective when water temperatures are warmer, as walleye are more likely to be found in deeper water. Leeches will work well on slip bobbers, jigs, and bottom bouncers. The wriggling motion will be highly attractive to walleye.
Nightcrawlers
Nightcrawlers are another great live bait option, particularly during the late spring and summer months. You can use them for a variety of presentations, including trolling with a worm harness or drifting along the bottom. It’s wise to use a slow presentation in these cases, as walleye prefer a subtle approach.
Artificial Bait Options for Walleye
Artificial lures offer a wide range of options for walleye fishing, and they can be just as effective as live bait so long as you use them correctly. Here are some of the top artificial baits:
Soft Plastics
Soft plastics, such as paddle tails, curly tails, and flukes, are incredibly versatile and can be used for jigging, casting, or trolling. When choosing one, consider the water clarity and light conditions – bright colors work well in stained water, while natural colors are best in clear water.
Hard Baits
The most effective hard bait options are crankbaits, jerkbaits, and blade baits. Crankbaits are excellent for covering large areas, especially when you’re trolling. Jerkbaits are ideal for casting along structure, while blade baits excel in vertical jigging situations. The key to using hard baits is to vary your retrieval speed and action to trigger the walleye into striking.
Spinnerbaits and Jigs
Spinnerbaits combine flash and vibration, making them highly effective in stained or murky water. Jigs are a year-round favorite and can be tipped with live bait or soft baits for added attraction. Jigs are best for vertical presentations, especially in the deep water or along steep drop-offs.
Seasonal Considerations for Bait Selection
The time of year will be a major role in determining which bait is more effective for walleye. As water temperatures and walleye behavior change throughout the year, so too should your bait selection. Don’t make the mistake of not adjusting throughout the year.
During the spring, for example, walleye are preparing to spawn and are more likely to be found in shallow waters. This is an excellent time to use minnows, as they are a natural prey item for walleye. Smaller minnows work best during the early part of the season when water temperatures are still low.
In the summer, walleye move deeper in search of cooler water, so nightcrawlers and leeches are the top choices for this time of year. Consider using a worm harness or bottom bouncer rig to keep your bait near the bottom, where walleye are likely to be feeding. Soft plastics can also be effective during this time.
When fall rolls around, feeding activity for walleye increases as they prepare for the winter months. This is a good time to use larger minnows and crankbaits. As the water cools, walleye will move to shallower water, making it the right time to cast and jig with live bait or artificial lures. Winter walleye fishing will require a more finesse approach. Small jigs tipped with live bait, such as minnows or wax worms, are ideal for coaxing bites from sluggish fish. Focus on areas with structure, such as underwater humps and points, where walleye are likely to be holding.
Tips for Matching the Hatch
Matching the hatch is a concept that involves selecting bait that closely resembles the natural forage walleye are feeding on. They’re more likely to strike bait that mimics what they’re already eating. The first step to effectively matching the hatch is to identify what walleye are feeding on in the water you’re fishing. Common forage species include shad, smelt, perch, and various types of minnows. Pay attention to the size, color, and behavior of these items.
Next, you’ll want to select the right match. This will mean matching the forage in size, shape, and color. For example, if walleye are feeding on small shad, opt for a soft plastic or crankbait that resembles a shad in both size and color. If perch are the primary forage, select a bait with similar coloration and profile. It’s also important to match the presentation to the behavior of the forage. Slow-moving prey calls for a slow and steady retrieve while fast and erratic forage calls for a more aggressive presentation to trigger reaction strikes.
Choosing the right bait is a critical aspect of successful walleye fishing. Whether you’re using live bait or artificial lures, understanding when and how to use each option can greatly improve your chances of catching more fish. With the right approach, you’ll be well-equipped to consistently catch walleye throughout the year.
And if you’re looking for the perfect place to catch a few walleye, look no further than Mattice Lake Outfitters. Call us toll free at 1-800-411-0334 or email us at mattice@walleye.ca to begin planning your trip today!