How to Catch Walleye in the Mississippi
Walleye can be found up and down the Mississippi River and can be caught on some parts of it year-round. Over the past 20 years the walleye in this river have begun to hide out and spawn in places that they previously had not. In the Mississippi river, most walleyes are smaller than they are in lakes. Mississippi River walleye usually weigh between 2 and 5 lbs. These Mississippi River walleye also tend to be harder to catch than lake walleye.
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Instructions
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Find an area in the Mississippi during spawning season that is around a bend with a hard, rocky bottom, flooded trees or muddy brushy areas. By April spawning has usually begun everywhere on the river. At the end of spawning season, walleye on the Mississippi can be found near slow current because food will be more plentiful there. During this time of the year use a lure that looks like a prime food source such as a minnow. It is important that the lure mimic live bait as much as possible.
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Fish for walleye in the Mississippi River in shallow areas. When fishing in these shallow areas you should use a light jig that has just enough weight to be able to sink to the bottom. Cast from the boat toward the shore of the Mississippi. Be very patient and work your bait slowly. When casting toward the shore, pay attention to the shoreline and note if there are any birds around. Walleye and birds feed on the same type of bait fish, so if birds are present then most likely walleye are present also.
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Fish near the the main lock and dam near Dubuque, Iowa. In the winter months walleye will be found in schools near the bases of these areas. When the ice has subsided in this area, most walleye fisherman can catch their limit. In the winter months also, fish the locks and dams between St. Paul and St. Louis. A favorite spot of walleye fishermen between these two areas is in Pierce County, Minnesota, near Redwing. If fishing in more southerly areas of the Mississippi in the winter, fish for walleye in the deeper water.
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Tips & Warnings
Walleyes can bite very gently so pay close attention to your line.
Using a heavy jig that sinks too fast will spook the walleye because it does not look natural.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit walleye image by Elena Vdovina from Fotolia.com
