Walleye
Sander vitreus · Percidae
Also known as: Walleyed pike (misnomer), Pickerel (Canada), Marble eye
A prized cool-water gamefish famous for low-light feeding and superb table quality.
- Typical size
- 0.5–2 kg (1–4 lb)
- Max size
- Trophy fish exceed 4.5 kg (10 lb).
- Water
- Freshwater
- Best season
- Spring and fall; low-light periods year-round.
Identification
Golden-olive body, a white-tipped lower tail, and large glassy eyes that reflect light — an adaptation for hunting in the dark.
Habitat & Range
Large lakes, reservoirs, and rivers with clean bottoms; light-sensitive, so it feeds at dawn, dusk, and night, or in stained water.
Native to central and northern North America; widely stocked.
Diet & Feeding
Primarily baitfish (perch, shad), plus insects and crayfish.
Spawning & Reproduction
Early spring over rocky reefs and river gravel, usually at night; no parental care.
How to Catch
Work bottom structure and edges at dawn, dusk, and after dark. A slow, bottom-hugging presentation usually wins.
Best techniques
- Jigging
- Live-bait rigs (Lindy)
- Trolling crankbaits & crawler harnesses
Lures & baits
- Jig & minnow
- Nightcrawlers & leeches
- Crankbaits
Best season: Spring and fall; low-light periods year-round.