How to Catch Spring Walleye in the South
- 1). Select the proper tackle. While the water in many Southern waters is turbid, it is at its clearest during the spring. Since walleyes are a finicky fish, use the lightest fishing line you can get away with. Eight- to 10-pound monofilament line is a good choice. Select a 6- to 6.5-foot medium-action rod and a variety of sizes of jig heads. The rule with jigs is to use only one that is heavy enough to allow you to maintain bottom contact.
- 2). Locate the walleyes. The fish should be actively feeding during the spring, especially during periods of warm weather. Target shallow, rocky areas that have a current moving through them. Cast jigs and minnows or troll crankbaits as you search for schools. If these shallow areas fail to produce, move to deeper areas like dropoffs and creek channels. These deeper areas will become more important as the water temperature climbs through the 60s and into the 70s.
- 3). Use a live minnow if you are fishing with a jig or live-bait rig. During the spring, walleyes are focused on eating minnows and small fish, so fishing with them makes your presentation more natural.
- 4). Fish after dark. Walleyes have cones in their eyes that allow them to see well even in the dark. As a result, they have an advantage over their prey. Walleyes often will move into the shallows at night to feed. Again, places with rocks and current are best. Long-line troll a shallow-running crankbait as you search for walleyes. The fish likes to spread out and feed over large expanses, so trolling is often the best method for catching them. Keep noise to a minimum.
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