Walleye fishing has undergone a revolution in recent years, with soft plastics taking center stage in many anglers’ tackle boxes. These versatile lures have proven time and again that they can outfish traditional baits in a variety of situations. But why are so many fishermen making the switch to walleye plastics? Let’s dive into the world of soft plastic baits and discover why they’ve become the go-to choice for walleye enthusiasts across North America.
Top 5 Walleye Plastic Baits on the Market
Before we delve into the nitty-gritty of walleye plastics, let’s take a look at some of the most popular and effective options available today:
- Northland Eye-Candy
- Pros: Realistic minnow profile, holographic eyes for added attraction
- Cons: May be less effective in very clear water
- Where to buy: Northland Tackle’s website and select fishing shops
- Berkley Ripple Shad
- Pros: Unique ripple body design for lifelike action, variety of sizes available
- Cons: Soft material can tear easily with aggressive fish
- Where to buy: Most major sporting goods stores and online retailers
- Berkley Gulp Minnow
- Pros: Strong scent attraction, biodegradable material
- Cons: Can dry out if not stored properly
- Where to buy: Widely available at fishing supply stores and online
- Zoom Fluke
- Pros: Excellent for finesse presentations, wide range of colors
- Cons: Requires more skill to fish effectively
- Where to buy: Bass Pro Shops and other major retailers
- Keitech Easy Shiner
- Pros: Unique tail design for enticing action, saltwater-compatible
- Cons: On the pricier side compared to some other options
- Where to buy: Specialty fishing stores and online tackle shops
These top walleye plastics have proven their worth time and again, but remember that effectiveness can vary based on conditions and fishing pressure. It’s always a good idea to have a variety of options in your tackle box. Each of these lures brings something unique to the table, whether it’s the Eye-Candy’s realistic appearance, the Ripple Shad’s distinctive body design, the Gulp Minnow’s scent attraction, the Fluke’s finesse potential, or the Easy Shiner’s tail action. Experimenting with different lures in various conditions will help you determine which works best for your local walleye population.
Understanding Walleye Plastics
Soft plastics for walleye are artificial lures made from pliable materials like PVC, silicone, or biodegradable plastics. They come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and colors, designed to mimic the walleye’s natural prey. The most common types of walleye plastics include plastic worms, swimbaits, grubs and twister tails, creature baits, and tube jigs.
What sets walleye plastics apart from traditional hard baits is their ability to provide a more natural presentation and subtle action in the water. The soft, flexible nature of these lures allows them to move realistically, even with minimal angler input.
“Walleye plastics have revolutionized the way we approach these sometimes finicky fish. Their versatility and lifelike action have opened up new possibilities for anglers of all skill levels.” – John Doe, Professional Walleye Angler
Why Walleye Love Soft Plastics
There are several reasons why walleye find soft plastics irresistible. First, the flexible nature of soft plastics allows them to move in ways that closely mimic live bait. This natural action can trigger strikes from even the most hesitant walleye. Second, many soft plastics are infused with scents and flavors that appeal to walleye. This added attraction can make the difference between a fish striking or passing up your bait. Third, walleye plastics can be rigged and fished in numerous ways, allowing anglers to adapt to different conditions and fishing scenarios. This versatility is a key factor in their effectiveness. Lastly, unlike many hard baits, soft plastics don’t create much noise in the water. This can be a significant advantage when targeting wary walleye in clear or pressured waters.
Top Soft Plastic Baits for Walleye
While we’ve already covered the top 5 walleye plastics on the market, let’s dive deeper into the different types of soft plastic baits that are particularly effective for walleye:
Plastic Worms
Plastic worms are a staple in many walleye anglers’ arsenals. They can be rigged in various ways, including Texas rig, wacky rig, and drop shot. The subtle, undulating action of a plastic worm can be irresistible to walleye, especially when fished slowly along the bottom or near structure.
Paddle Tail Swimbaits
Swimbaits with paddle tails are excellent for covering water and imitating baitfish. They work well when walleye are actively feeding or when you need to trigger reaction strikes. Key features to look for in a good walleye swimbait include a realistic baitfish profile, strong, vibrating tail action, and durable material that can withstand multiple strikes.
Grubs and Twister Tails
Grubs and twister tails are versatile walleye plastics that can be fished in a variety of ways. They’re particularly effective when rigged on a jig head and slowly retrieved along the bottom. The curly tail creates a subtle vibration that can attract walleye from a distance.
Creature Baits
While often associated with bass fishing, creature baits can be deadly for walleye, especially during the spawn or when fishing around heavy cover. Their multiple appendages create a unique action in the water that can trigger strikes from curious walleye.
Rigging Techniques for Walleye Plastics
Proper rigging is crucial for getting the most out of your walleye plastics. Some popular rigging techniques include using jig heads, drop shot rigs, wacky rigs, Texas rigs, and Carolina rigs. Each technique has its advantages and is suited to different fishing situations. For example, jig heads are versatile and can be used in various depths and currents, while the drop shot rig is perfect for finesse presentations to finicky walleye.
When choosing a jig head weight, consider factors like water depth and current strength. Lighter jigs work well in shallow, calm waters, while heavier jigs are better suited for deep water or strong currents. It’s always a good idea to carry a range of jig weights to adapt to changing conditions on the water.
Choosing the Right Colors and Sizes
Selecting the appropriate color and size for your walleye plastics can significantly impact your success. In clear water, natural, translucent colors like white, pearl, and smoke often work best. For stained water, consider brighter colors like chartreuse, orange, or hot pink. In dirty water, dark colors such as black, purple, or motor oil can be effective.
When it comes to size, try to match your plastic to the prevalent baitfish in the area. Generally, 3-5 inch plastics work well for walleye, but don’t be afraid to go bigger in low light conditions or when targeting trophy fish. Always carry a variety of colors and sizes, as walleye preferences can change quickly, so be prepared to experiment.
By understanding these key aspects of walleye plastics, you’ll be well on your way to improving your catch rates and enjoying more success on the water. Remember, practice and persistence are key to mastering any fishing technique, so don’t be afraid to experiment and learn from each outing.