Topwater walleye? You bet—if you try these tips and techniques

TIMING

Topwater fishing with both fly and spin gear is most productive when the water is calm. If it’s choppy, the sound and motion of your bait has to compete with the disturbance from the waves, making it harder to attract fish. Meanwhile, walleye can see incredibly well in low-light conditions, giving them an advantage over most prey at dusk and dawn, as well as on overcast days. That makes those prime times to tie on topwaters.