Photo: Engbretson, Eric / U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service / Public domain (via Wikimedia Commons)
Sander vitreus
Walleye
Freshwater
About this species
A golden-eyed North American perch prized as one of the finest freshwater table fish. Its light-gathering eyes let it feed actively at dusk and in stained water. Jigs tipped with minnows and slow-trolled crankbaits are staples.
Season
123456789101112
Depth
2 – 15 m
Habitat Spots
LakeReservoirRiver
Fishing Methods
LureTrollingJigging
Bait & Rig
Jig heads tipped with minnows or nightcrawlers and slow-trolled crankbaits fished near rocky points at dusk.
Edibility & Taste
One of the finest-tasting freshwater fish, with mild, sweet, flaky white flesh ideal for pan-frying or baking.
Similar Species
The large, glassy eye and a dark spot at the base of the first dorsal fin separate walleye from its closest look-alike, the sauger.
Record Weight
11.34 kg