What depth is best for catching walleye?

The ideal water depths for walleye fishing depends on what time of year it is or where the walleye are hanging out on any given day. Starting in the spring, water temperatures are warming up. This affects the walleye metabolism and they are more likely to be in a feeding mood. Action levels are high as is their aggressive nature. The day starts out in shallow waters of 15’ depths or less. After the morning feed time, walleye move towards deeper waters. This typically brings them to rock ledges that could be 20 feet deeper or more. Walleye hang out under these rock ledges to prey on minnows and other food sources. In sort of a pacing motion, they move between these rock ledges and shallow water levels. Outside of this area, other hot spot areas include rocky shoals near drop off points and bottleneck spots in between two land areas. Also give sandy or gravel bottom surfaces a shot. Fresh water spilling out into rocky causeways is a favorite hide out of walleye. They can sink towards the bottom when desired but still hang close to whatever food source is coming off the spillway. Current conditions and water clarity also factor into what depth levels walleye are hanging out in. Stronger water currents will draw walleye to slack water areas. Otherwise, walleye could be as shallow as two to three feet or as deep as 15 to 20 feet in a river bed. The winter season draws walleye up towards the surface for warmth. Keep in mind this does not make them an easy target. Their movement is slower in the winter and your cast and bait techniques need to match these movements. Regardless of where they are hanging out, it will take some patience and navigational skills on your part to seek them out. In the end, your hard work will pay off with a nice catch.