How to catch the shallow-water walleye that most anglers overlook

GEARING UP

Shallow-water walleye are usually very active, and tend to smack your lure so hard there’s no mistaking a strike. When you feel a fish take your lure, don’t hesitate to set the hook. I like to use six-and-a-half to seven-foot medium or medium-heavy rods with fast-action tips. This lets me feel the bite, yet have enough backbone power to fight them. When using jigs, I prefer spinning gear, and when running bottom bouncers, I like baitcasting outfits.

Shallow-water fishing, however, is hard on fishing line. Snags can and do occur regularly, so your line will be put to the test as it rubs and brushes against underwater obstructions. Therefore, select a line that’s tough, durable and nick resistant. My favourite for this application is Berkley Trilene XT in 12-pound test (below), which I find both durable and highly sensitive.

Keep in mind that shallow-water walleye can be easily spooked by excessive noise and activity, so when fishing from a boat, use your electric trolling motor as much as possible. If you have to fire up the big motor to change locations, don’t drive right over the area you intend to fish. Instead, approach cautiously, cut the engine well away from the spot, then drift in or use the trolling motor to get close.