I am in the military, relocated to NJ (30 minutes from Philly) recently. Looking for locations to fish for walleyes that would provide a simple day trip.
First off, remember that walleye love to hang in the deep water. If you find rock formations you will find walleye if the water is deep enough, or those grassy areas where they can hide in wait for their food to come along. Not knowing your exact location, here are some ideas of where you can fish for some walleye. Try out such places as Merrill Creek, Delaware River, Monksville, Greenwood, and Swartswood Lake. All of these places have walleye that are thriving. You may also find some walleye in smaller rivers, ponds, or streams too. The largest walleye caught in New Jersey is from the Delaware River. If one of these options is close to you, make sure to try some of them out. Don’t get frustrated if you don’t get any for a bit though. It always takes the right kind of bait you use and being in the right place at the right time. Spawning for walleyes in New Jersey takes place in the springtime. At this time they will try and work up to some streams and spawn there. You may want to check out such places like sand bars, and even shoals where the water isn’t as deep; this is another place spawning walleye will look for. Walleyes have some very sharp teeth, so remember they may bite through your line once in a while. Another great idea for going fishing for walleye is to go after sundown, in the deeper water; this is a perfect time to fish for walleye in the summer. Remember, the best baits to try on walleye in New Jersey are crank baits, live, small spinners, spoons, and sometimes plastic worms and grubs. You also should get bright colored bait; this will allow the walleye to see it better in the darker water.