What depth should I fish for walleye in the early season?

Question

FishGPT · Accepted Answer

When it comes to early season walleye fishing, depth is a critical factor that can make the difference between a fruitful expedition and a day spent just enjoying the water. As spring wanes and the water begins to warm, walleyes start moving from their winter haunts to shallower waters.

**Depth Considerations:**

In the early season, particularly in the late spring, walleyes are often found in **shallow waters** ranging from 5 to 15 feet deep. This is especially true during the pre-spawn and post-spawn periods when they move towards **shallow flats** and **gravel beds**. These areas offer the perfect combination of food availability and warmer temperatures that attract walleyes looking to feed after the long winter months.

**Techniques and Tips:**

- **Casting and Jigging:** Use a jig with a minnow or a plastic tail for casting in shallow waters. A light jigging action can be especially effective in provoking a bite.
- **Trolling:** If you're trolling, keep it slow and steady using crankbaits that mimic the local forage. This method is particularly useful when covering large areas to locate active fish.
- **Side Imaging:** Utilize side imaging technology to identify schools of walleye in shallow areas. This can significantly increase your chances of finding the right depth and location. Check out [this video by Doug Wegner on using side imaging for shallow water walleyes](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/uslXIR8OC6A/default.jpg).

**Gear Suggestions:**

- Consider using a [Dr.meter Fish Scale](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00ZWNGZFO?tag=tacklenet-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1) to accurately weigh your catch and ensure you’re meeting the local regulations.
- [Fishing Leaders with Swivels](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08G3R23CV?tag=tacklenet-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1) can help prevent line twists when jigging or trolling.

For more tips, watch [Jigs, Minnows & Plastics for Early Season Walleye](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/X8EkjiV8prI/default.jpg) to see how diverse baits can be used effectively.

**Practical Tip:**

During the early season, the best time to fish for walleye is often in the early morning or late evening when they are most active. Pay attention to water temperatures and weather patterns, as they can influence the depth at which walleyes are feeding.

Remember, the key to successful walleye fishing in the early season is adaptability. Be prepared to change depths and techniques as you learn more about the fish's behavior on any given day. Tight lines and happy fishing!

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