What to Use to Catch a Walleye?

What to Use to Catch a Walleye?
Walleye are finicky eaters by nature, so choosing the right lure and color combination can make all the difference. Techniques for walleye are different from other species, and some special lures will be required to catch them. Switching colors and the live bait might have an impact on your success, but there are some tried-and-true lures to catch walleye.

Jig

Brightly painted jigs of 1/8 and 1/4 oz. are the most common walleye lures available. Adding live bait, such as a night crawler or live minnow, will add to its attractiveness. Walleye also like jigs tipped with artificial grubs or twister tails.

Worm Harness

Worm harnesses come pre-tied are often outfitted with brightly colored beads and spinners. A worm harness is a heavier piece of monofilament fishing line that has three hooks tied in about a 4-inch span. The hooks are placed into a night crawler so that it lies flat.

Slip Bobber

A simple slip bobber setup, with either a single or double hook, is set to a depth of just above the bottom. A variety of live baits, such as minnows, wax worms, night crawlers and even crickets, will work well to catch a walleye this way.

Crank baits

Deep-diving crank baits work well for catching walleye. Rapalas, Thundersticks, and Hot 'N Tots are the most popular choices. Colors can vary by season, but "fire tiger" is always a good choice. Walleye models usually come in a 2- or 3-inch length with a deep-diving bill. Because walleye like to be on the bottom or suspended below 15 feet, it is critical your crank bait stays deep.

Spinner

Mepps spinners and beetle spins are good baits to throw while you're jigging. Bright, flashy silver and gold spinner blades are the preferred setup.

Article Written By Matthew Knight

Based in Southwestern Michigan, Matthew Knight has been writing outdoor and technology articles since 2008. His articles appear on various websites. He holds a bachelor's degree in computer information systems from Western Michigan University.

Write for Trails.com
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