Species guide

How to catch Walleye

Sander vitreus

#0611

Stylized 2D illustration of Walleye
#0611FreshwaterBrackishGame FishFreshwaterBrackishNorth America

Walleye are popular freshwater game fish known for their elongated bodies and distinctive glassy eyes. They are nocturnal hunters that favor feeding on smaller fish and aquatic creatures. Widely stocked in lakes, they provide excellent sport fishing opportunities.

Where they live

Walleye inhabit medium to large freshwater and brackish lakes and rivers across North America, favoring turbid, shallow waters and depths up to 27 meters.

Typical size

Up to about 107 cm

What they eat

  • yellow perch
  • freshwater drum
  • crayfish
  • snails
  • frogs
  • small mammals
  • various fish species

Best baits

  • minnows
  • nightcrawlers
  • leeches
  • crayfish imitations

Best lures

  • jigs
  • crankbaits
  • spinner rigs
  • soft plastic swimbaits

How to fish for them

  • night fishing
  • casting jigs
  • trolling crankbaits
  • drift fishing

Track every Walleye you catch.

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