Once a particular cove area or large flats has been selected, consider this a miniature Lake Michigan for the day. Coves contained small sections towards the back that are similar to larger riverbeds. This can provide a healthy stock of walleye fish at times. During spawning season, search this area as the waters tend to be on the shallow side. Walleye prefer shallow waters to spawn in for early spring.

Approach

With a certain cove area pinpointed, it is now time to move in for the kill. Start by moving into a small area of brush or rock piles. Start in the back portion of the cove. Move through this area in a sort of zig-zag motion to reach the shallow areas of the cove. Continue moving forward approaching medium to deep water depths in spots. Leave the cove in the reverse order by focusing on the middle sections as opposed to the shoreline.

Going through this methodical process will help determine the best sections of a particular cove to focus on for walleye. A review of the cove area should pinpoint the location of walleye either in the outside, the middle or the back areas of the cove. As the day progresses, the walleye will more than likely move to various parts of this section.

Take mental notes on where they are striking and what structures they are hanging around to define a pattern for the remainder of the day.  Keep in mind that walleye move to different water depth levels during the day. In the early hours and towards the end of the day, they prefer shallow to medium depths for feeding activities. In the middle of the day is when walleye tend to hang out in the medium to deep water depths. Be prepared to adjust fishing depths accordingly for the most walleye success.

Conclusion

An essential key to fishing walleye in Lake Michigan is information. Knowing the lake region like the back of the hand is the best way to lure walleye out of their hiding spots. Match bait selections to what the walleye like best, crayfish movement, and the cooler should be full by the end of the day.

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