Ice fishing is a popular winter activity for anglers around the world, and catching walleye is one of the most sought-after fish during this time of year. To catch the elusive walleye, it is essential to have the right setup, which will increase your chances of success. Here, we’ll discuss the preferred setup for catching walleye during ice fishing.
Location
The first step to catching walleye is finding the right location. Walleye are known to live in deep waters during the winter months, so it’s best to drill a hole in the deepest areas of the lake. Many anglers also prefer to fish near underwater structures like weed beds and rock piles, as these areas are the primary feeding grounds for walleye.
Rods
Once you have found the right location, the next step is to choose a fishing rod. For walleye fishing, a medium to a medium-heavy rod is preferred. This type of rod will allow you to cover a range of depths and handle larger fish.
Reels
For ice fishing and walleye, a spinning reel with a high gear ratio is ideal. The high gear ratio allows for faster retrieval, which is essential when fishing through the ice. Additionally, a good drag system will help you to pull in walleye successfully, preventing the fish from breaking the line or running away.
Line
When it comes to choosing a line for walleye fishing, monofilament lines with a weight capacity ranging from 6 to 10 pounds are typically used. This type of line is less visible to the fish and is durable, making it ideal for fishing in rough conditions.
Bait
Walleye can get finicky when it comes to bait, so it’s important to experiment with a variety of options until you find what works best. Some of the most popular baits for walleye fishing include minnows, jigs, spoons, and artificial lures. When fishing with live bait, it’s best to use a single hook and weight the bait to the bottom.
Final Thoughts
As with all fishing, patience and perseverance are key to success. Finding the right location, using the right tackle, and experimenting with different types of bait can make all the difference in catching walleye during ice fishing season. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or just starting, following these tips can help you increase your chances of catching a trophy walleye.