Great question. In fall, leeches on a bottom-bouncer Lindy-style rig are a go-to for walleyes because the fish are feeding up in preparation for winter and following bait around structure. Here’s a practical, bite-ready plan to maximize your fall leech bite.
- When to fish them: Dawn and dusk are prime windows. Fall days tend to be overcast or cooler, so the fish stay aggressive longer in low light. If you have a bright, blue-sky day, focus on deeper, near-structure zones where walleyes hug the bottom.
- Depth and spots: Start around the typical offshore structure, such as humps, points, and weed edges in the 12–25 ft range. As water cools, fish often slide deeper or tighten to perennial cover, so be prepared to probe 20+ ft if you’re not marking active fish.
- Rigging basics: Use a sturdy bottom-bouncer setup with a clear plan for fall depths. A 1/2–1 oz weight works in shallower ranges; upgrade to 1–2 oz for deeper water or windy days to keep your bait on the bottom. Run an 18–24 inch leader to a leech on a small, sharp hook. Many anglers run either one or two leeches; if bites slow, try adding a second leech for a quicker scent/drag cue.
- Retrieval/presentation: Keep contact with the bottom and use a slow, steady crawl with occasional light hops. The bite often comes as the rig drags along structure or edges; when you feel a tap or a hard pull, lift smoothly and pin the hook. Maintain a modest speed—roughly 0.5–1.5 mph depending on current and depth.
- Bait care: Keep leeches cool and moist in a breathable container; don’t let them bake in sun or heat. Fresh, active leeches usually trigger quicker strikes.
- Look for the right cues: cloudy days or post-frontal conditions can improve bite windows, while clear, bright days tend to push walleyes deeper or closer to structure. Use your electronics to pinpoint bait and active fish, then align your rig depth to those targets.
If you want a quick visual on the rig and presentation, check these guides: How to fish for Walleye! Using Bottom Bouncers and Lindy Rigs effectively! and Pueblo Reservoir, CO Walleye Fishing: Lindy Rig and Leech, More Bass Today Deep 5-11-19.
Bottom line: lean into early fall’s low-light windows, start shallow and move deeper as temps drop, and keep the rig and leeches tight to the bottom for consistent action. Get out there, stay patient, and you’ll dial in a solid fall bite. Tight lines and good luck out there! 😊
