Spring
Missouri's larger lakes, such as Bull Shoals Lake, Harry S. Truman Reservoir, Mark Twain Lake, Pomme de Terre Lake, Smithville Reservoir, Stockton Lake, Table Rock Lake and Wappapello Lake, have a healthy walleye population. The walleye spawn during the spring, typically heading into the colder feeder streams on the lakes shores. For bait, anglers use crustaceans, worms and insects, especially during the evening and along shallow bars or shoals near deep water. Anglers also use crank baits, spoons, small spinner baits, and plastic worms and grubs.
Summer
Walleye seek colder, deep waters during the summer. Anglers suggest going out just after dark to lure walleye during these hot months, as they become more active when the sun goes down and the water begins to cool off. Anglers suggest using crank baits, jigs and worms. Use a barbed hook with one to two sinkers and jig across the bottom of the lake or river, bringing in the fish. Missouri walleye feed on crawfish, so lures that mimic the movement of the crawfish are especially good.
Fall and Winter
With the cooler waters and air temperatures of fall and winter, Missouri walleye become more active during the morning and day. Look for them in moderate depths in the mornings and evenings on the Missouri Lakes. Use crank baits, jigs and plastic worms to entice the fish. Walleye seek the colder waters as the sun heats the shallows, sending them out into the deeper regions of the lake through the day. In the winter, use jigs, plastic worms or spoons for bait.
Article Written By Eric Cedric
A former Alaskan of 20 years, Eric Cedric now resides in California. He's published in "Outside" and "Backpacker" and has written a book on life in small-town Alaska, "North by Southeast." Cedric was a professional mountain guide and backcountry expedition leader for 18 years. He worked in Russia, Iceland, Greece, Turkey and Belize. Cedric attended Syracuse University and is a private pilot.
