The walleye is one of the most popular freshwater fish in North America and has a strong following in many freshwater lakes and impoundments. Hopefully the following facts will help you understand more about this amazing fish.
Facts About The Walleye
- Walleye have large eyes with a layer of reflective pigment (almost like a cats eye) which allows them to feed in murky water, dim light and darkness.
- Due to their good eyes walleye are sensitive to sunlight and during these times walleye often move into water as deep as 40 feet.
- Walleye can only see shades of red and green and therefore green, orange and red lures are the most popular.
- Originally walleye occurred naturally in the northern regions of North America, but as it currently stands walleye have been stocked into almost every state of the US.
- Walleye have a very sensitive lateral line which allows them to sense wounded bait fish or lures.
- The oldest walleye recorded was 29 years and there is evidence that walleye can live to over 30 years of age.
- Walleye prefer cold water and feed right through the winter, but can also be caught during all other times of the year.
- The walleye reaches maturity at about 3-5 years and spawning occurs at 43 to 50° F. A large female can lay up to 500,000 eggs.
- The most popular lures for walleye are minnows, but jigs, spinners and grubs also account for fish.
