Where are walleye located in clear northern Minnesota lakes when water temperatures are 60 degrees?

Question

FishGPT · Accepted Answer

Ah, the tricky walleye in those clear northern Minnesota lakes at the end of spring! As water temperatures hover around the **60-degree mark**, walleyes are typically transitioning from their post-spawn activities. Understanding their movements during this time can greatly increase your odds of landing a few of these tasty critters.

**Location and Habitat:**

In clear northern Minnesota lakes, walleye tend to seek out areas that provide a mix of comfort, cover, and prey. Around 60 degrees, you will often find them in **shallow waters** during low-light periods (think dawn and dusk) as they hunt for baitfish. During the brighter parts of the day, they retreat to **deeper waters** or areas with cover like weed beds, submerged structures, or rock piles.

**Techniques and Tactics:**

1. **Early Morning and Late Evening:**
   - Head to **shallow flats** and **sandbars** where walleyes are actively feeding. Using a jig like the [**Northland Fishing Tackle Fireball Live Bait Jig**](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001443JD6?tag=tacklenet-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1) tipped with a minnow can be highly effective.

2. **Midday Sun:**
   - Focus on **drop-offs** and **sheltered structures**. Techniques such as **bottom bouncing** with a spinner rig, like the [**Northland Tackle Walleye Spinner Rig**](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B003CTOC1Y?tag=tacklenet-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1), can help you cover ground and find those midday walleyes.

3. **Cloudy or Overcast Days:**
   - Walleyes might stay shallower for longer. Use **crankbaits** like the [**Cotton Cordell Wally Diver**](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B003CULS9W?tag=tacklenet-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1) to mimic baitfish and entice bites.

**Practical Tip:**
Try using a **slow and steady retrieve** with your lures, as walleyes in cooler water can be a bit sluggish. Adjust your tactics based on the time of day and weather conditions to maximize your success.

For more tips and visual guidance, check out this [YouTube video on shallow walleye fishing techniques](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aS5vgFLWDzM).

Remember, patience and persistence are key. Every day on the water is a learning experience, so enjoy the process and keep those lines tight! 🎣

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