Jigging and casting are the best techniques to use in the late fall to the early spring season because they allow you to get the bait right in the middle of the walleye where they will be more encouraged to take it. Use spinners or plugs that mimic the movements of minnows will help you get the best results.

In the summer and fall months trolling is a great method that will help you reel in those walleye. Spoons, jigs, plastic worms and crankbaits work really well.

The jig colors that seem to work the best are the fire, silver, brown and blue.

Trolling on the bottom of the water is the best way to reach the larger trophy size walleye and using a 3-way swivel rig usually produces the best results. If you need help keeping your line down on the bottom of the water where the large fish are located try using bottom bouncers, snap weights or downriggers.

Late evening and throughout the night the females will return to the shallow water so if you are after the largest catch you can get, this is the time you need to go out. Trolling with small lures is the best technique to use and you will need to stay near the shoreline, weeds and other structures.

Keep in mind that if you take a boat out on Lake Michigan when it is dark, you must have working navigational lights. This is required by law and no exceptions will be made.

To get the full “Lake Michigan Walleye Fishing” article you’ll need to download it here.