Ice fishing for walleye is a great way to get outdoors in the wintertime. While others are stuck inside dreaming of summer, you are out catching trophy walleye!
From the best gear and locations to advanced techniques and safety considerations, we cover it all in this guide to help you catch more walleye!
1. What is Ice Fishing for Walleye?
Overview of Ice Fishing for Walleye
Ice fishing for walleye differs from summertime trolling or casting from shore. You are often directly above the fish you are targetting while watching your fish finder. This method of fishing is unique because it requires a deep understanding of the walleye’s behavior, as well as patience and knowledge of the environment.
In winter, walleye often seek out deeper waters and hover around structures like drop-offs and underwater humps. Areas of current on the Great Lakes are especially good areas. As temperatures drop, their feeding activity becomes more concentrated, especially during early mornings and late afternoons. This makes them an ideal target for ice anglers.
Why Walleye is a Popular Target for Ice Fishing
Walleye are considered a highly sought-after species in the fishing world due to the fact they make great table fair. These fish are known for their strong fight, making them rewarding to catch. Ice fishing for walleye is particularly popular in colder climates. The fish’s natural tendency to congregate around certain structures and depths in the winter makes them relatively predictable, yet still challenging on off days.
2. Best Locations for Ice Fishing for Walleye
Top Lakes and Rivers in North America
If you’re planning to go ice fishing for walleye, choosing the right location is crucial. Here are some of the best lakes and rivers for walleye ice fishing:
- Lake Erie: One of the top walleye fisheries in the world, especially known for large fish during ice season.
- Lake Winnipeg (Canada): Known for trophy walleye, Lake Winnipeg is a hotspot for serious ice anglers.
- Mille Lacs Lake (Minnesota): A highly productive lake for both quantity and quality of walleye.
- Saginaw Bay (Michigan): Offers a great experience for walleye ice fishing with a strong population of fish.
- Devils Lake (North Dakota): A popular destination for walleye fishing in the ice season, with plenty of access points.
Each of these lakes offers unique opportunities for anglers to target walleye in the winter. Lake Erie, for example, is famous for producing massive fish, while Lake Winnipeg is renowned for its abundance of large, aggressive walleye. One lake not mentioned is Red Lake in Minnesota. This lake has a great population of walleye and the upper part of the lake is open to anyone to fish in the winter.
How to Choose the Right Location for Ice Fishing
To maximize your success, selecting the right spot within a lake or river is just as important as picking the right body of water. Here are key factors to consider when choosing a location for ice fishing:
- Water Depth: Walleye tend to move to deeper waters as the winter progresses. Early in the season, they might be in 10-20 feet of water, but mid-winter, they can go as deep as 30-40 feet.
- Structure: Look for areas with drop-offs, humps, or submerged points where walleye congregate to feed.
- Underwater Vegetation: Walleye also tend to stay near submerged weeds or rocks, which attract baitfish, their primary food source.
- Current Areas: These areas are especially good on the Great Lakes.
By focusing on these environmental factors, you’ll have a higher likelihood of locating walleye during the ice season.
3. When is the Best Time for Ice Fishing for Walleye?
Ideal Season and Time of Year
The best time to go ice fishing for walleye varies by region, but in general, the season lasts from December through March. The early season, when ice first begins to form, can be highly productive because walleye are still relatively active and close to shore. Mid-winter, when ice is thickest, can be slower, but the fish tend to be larger. The late season (February-March) sees an increase in activity as walleye prepare for the spawn.
Best Time of Day to Catch Walleye on the Ice
Walleye are known to be most active during low-light conditions. This means that the best times to fish are typically:
- Early Morning: The hour just before and after sunrise.
- Late Afternoon: The period leading up to and just after sunset.
Fishing during these twilight hours can dramatically increase your chances of success, as walleye become more aggressive and feed actively during these times.
4. Essential Gear for Ice Fishing for Walleye
Ice Fishing Rods and Reels for Walleye
When targeting walleye, your gear should be specialized for their size and the environment. Here’s what you need:
- Rods: A medium to medium-light rod, around 28-32 inches, is ideal for detecting the subtle bites of walleye. The sensitivity of the rod is crucial.
- Reels: Spinning reels are most commonly used, paired with 4-8 lb test lines for clarity in the cold water. Inline reels are also gaining popularity due to their minimal line twist.
Baits and Lures for Walleye Ice Fishing
Walleye respond to a variety of lures and bait presentations. Here are some popular choices:
- Jigs: 1/8 to 3/8 oz. jigs, tipped with minnows or soft plastics, are a staple for ice fishing walleye.
- Spoons: Flutter spoons, such as the Northland Buck-Shot, are excellent for mimicking wounded baitfish and attracting walleye in low-light conditions.
- Live Bait: Minnows are the go-to live bait for walleye, either used on tip-ups or jigging rigs.
| Lure Type | Recommended Size | Best Time to Use |
|---|---|---|
| Jigs | 1/8 to 3/8 oz | All Season |
| Spoons | 1/4 to 1/2 oz | Early and Late Season |
| Live Minnows | 2 to 4 inches | All Season |
Other Important Ice Fishing Gear
Aside from rods, reels, and baits, having the right ice fishing equipment ensures safety and success:
- Ice Augers: Either manual or power augers, depending on ice thickness.
- Tip-ups: Essential for setting multiple lines in different locations.
- Fish Finders: Use a sonar fish finder to locate schools of walleye below the ice.
- Ice Shelters: Portable huts that provide warmth and protection from the elements.
5. Techniques for Ice Fishing for Walleye
Jigging Techniques for Walleye
Jigging is one of the most popular and effective ways to catch walleye through the ice. Here are a few tips to master the art of jigging:
- Vertical Jigging: Drop your lure straight down and bounce it off the bottom, then raise it slowly. Walleye often strike as the lure rises.
- Using Glow Jigs: In murky water or low-light conditions, glow jigs are highly effective for attracting walleye.
- Vary Your Speed: Don’t stick to one cadence. Experiment with slow lifts and quick twitches to see what triggers strikes.
Using Tip-ups for Walleye
Tip-ups are an excellent method for covering a larger area when ice fishing for walleye. Here’s how to use them effectively:
- Set Tip-ups at Different Depths: Spread your lines across various depths to locate feeding fish.
- Use Live Minnows: Walleye love live bait, and minnows suspended just off the bottom are irresistible to them.
Deadsticking for Walleye
Deadsticking involves presenting a baited hook without much movement. It’s especially useful when walleye are lethargic during mid-winter:
- When to Use Deadsticking: On extremely cold days when fish are less active, deadsticking can entice slow-moving walleye.
- Best Bait for Deadsticking: Use a live minnow or a soft plastic lure on a small jig head for a subtle presentation.
6. Understanding Walleye Behavior Under the Ice
Walleye Habits in Winter
Walleye exhibit unique patterns during the winter months, and understanding these behaviors is key to successful fishing:
- Preferred Depths: Early in the season, walleye may be found in 10-15 feet of water. As winter progresses, they move deeper, often settling in 30-40 feet.
- Winter Feeding: Walleye are opportunistic feeders in winter, relying heavily on baitfish like minnows and perch. They tend to be more active during dawn and dusk.
How to Read Ice Conditions for Walleye Fishing
Reading the ice and water conditions is essential for locating walleye. Here’s what you need to know:
- Use Fish Finders: Sonar is a game-changer for identifying fish and structures beneath the ice. You can easily detect depth changes and schools of walleye.
- Look for Structure: Walleye are structure-oriented, so focus on areas like submerged humps, ridges, and drop-offs.
7. Best Ice Fishing Techniques by Season for Walleye
Early Ice Walleye Fishing Strategies
When the ice first forms, walleye are typically more aggressive. Here’s how to capitalize on this:
- Shallow Water: Target walleye in 10-20 feet of water, where they’ll be feeding heavily.
- Use Smaller Jigs: In early winter, smaller, more subtle presentations tend to work best.
Mid-Winter Ice Fishing Techniques for Walleye
Mid-winter often presents more of a challenge as walleye become less active:
- Move Frequently: If you’re not getting bites, don’t be afraid to drill more holes and stay mobile.
- Fish Deeper: Walleye tend to retreat to deeper waters during mid-winter, so focus on areas 30-40 feet deep.
Late Ice Walleye Fishing
As the ice begins to melt, walleye become more active again, especially as they prepare for the spawn:
- Look for Moving Water: Near river mouths or other inflows, as walleye often congregate near moving water during late ice.
- Use Larger Lures: Walleye are more aggressive late in the season, so larger spoons and jigs can help attract bigger fish.
8. Using Technology to Improve Ice Fishing for Walleye
Fish Finders and Sonar for Locating Walleye
Using technology like fish finders and sonar can drastically improve your success when ice fishing for walleye. In recent years, forward-facing sonar has taken over the ice fishing scene. This gives you a real-time look at walleye behavior under the ice.
- How to Use Fish Finders: Drop the transducer down the hole, and use the sonar display to locate both fish and underwater structure.
- Targeting Depth: Walleye typically suspend near the bottom, but sonar can show you exactly where they are in the water column.
Underwater Cameras and Their Role in Ice Fishing
While not as common as fish finders, underwater cameras can be a valuable tool:
- Spotting Fish: Cameras allow you to visually confirm the presence of walleye and observe their behavior around your bait.
- Combining Sonar and Cameras: Using both tools together provides the best chance of locating and landing walleye.
9. Safety Considerations for Ice Fishing
Checking Ice Conditions Before Heading Out
Remember the statement “NO ICE IS SAFE ICE.” Safety is always the top priority when ice fishing for walleye. Follow these guidelines to ensure a safe experience:
- Check Ice Thickness: A minimum of 4 inches of clear, solid ice is required for walking, while snowmobiles or ATVs need at least 6-8 inches.
- Look for Cracks and Slush: Avoid areas where the ice appears cracked, discolored, or slushy, as this indicates weaker ice.
- Use a Spud Bar: Using a spud bar will help you gauge the thickness of the ice.
Essential Safety Gear for Ice Fishing
Always bring the following safety gear to protect yourself on the ice:
- Ice Picks: Wear around your neck for quick access in case you fall through the ice.
- Flotation Suit: A cold-weather flotation suit can save your life in the event of a fall.
- Group Fishing: Always fish with others, and make sure someone knows your location.
10. Common Mistakes to Avoid When Ice Fishing for Walleye
Using the Wrong Equipment or Tackle
One of the biggest mistakes anglers make is using gear that isn’t suitable for ice fishing. Always use light, sensitive rods, and reels, and make sure your bait matches the size of the walleye you’re targeting.
Fishing in the Wrong Locations
Walleye are notorious for moving around in winter, so fishing in a barren spot can be a waste of time. Always focus on structure and depth changes, and don’t be afraid to move frequently if you’re not getting bites.
Lack of Patience or Over-Moving
While mobility is key, don’t overdo it. Sometimes staying in one spot and giving the walleye time to bite is more effective than constantly drilling new holes. Balance patience with strategic movement.
Conclusion
By understanding the behavior of walleye in winter, using the right gear, and mastering techniques like jigging and tip-ups, you can significantly increase your chances of success. Remember to prioritize safety at all times and stay adaptable to changing conditions.