Now that you know where to look for walleye, what type of bait should you use? This depends on the time of year, the body of water, and whether you are fishing by boat or from shore. In the spring, walleye prefer to strike at smaller jigs, crankbaits, and plastic worms. You will want to fish close to the shore or shallow areas where walleye have chosen their spawning beds. Such shallow areas include rocky points, gravel shoals, and sunken islands. When the heat of summer arrives, I recommend using the same types of baits as you would in the spring. During the cooler times of the morning and evening, stay near the shallows, but during the day, move out to deeper waters and weed beds. Fall brings cooler weather and once again, you should fish in shallower water. Try using jigs, crankbaits, and spoons. If you want to try your luck at ice fishing, keep in mind that walleye are less active when the water is cold. You should use jigs, spoons, and plastic worms and move your bait slowly.

Many anglers choose to troll by boat for walleye. If this is what you have planned, then I would suggest that you try long line trolling. Here is how this works; slow your motor down to only about 1-2 MPH and let your line you behind you for approximately 45 yards. Walleye are easily spooked and if you keep your line too close to the boat, you will fail to catch anything. If your line is further away, this gives the walleye a chance to regroup after the boat has passed by. Use sinkers, spinners, and a single hook topped with a nightcrawlers or a grub. Float your bait just above the bottom of the lake and move it along with jerky, uneven strokes. Having your line out this far will greatly reduce the feel for you and when the fish strike, it will be with a gentle tug rather than a quick pull. Trolling in this manner is very effective in the spring when the shallows are heavily fished by shore anglers. It also works well in the summer when the walleye head out to deeper waters. If you are fishing near a weed bed, remember to troll just over top or just outside the weeds. Don’t plunge your bait deep inside the weed beds.

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