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Walleye Fishing Secrets and Techniques.
If you are heading to Sarasota, Florida for Vacation, then here are some fishing tips to help you maximize your vacation fun - Fishing Sarasota.
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Your Walleye Fishing Guide Table of Contents What Are Walleye What Gear Do You Need Do You Need a Boat for Walleye Fishing The Best Time to Fish for Walleye - Spring, Summer, Autumn or Winter How to Prepare for the Season All About Bait What About Rigging and Jigging Should You Hire a Guide Ever Try a Fly-in Preserving Your Prize Winning Walleye
Fishing Tips - Sarasota Florida Vacation - http:/etravelmagazine.info/2011/fishing-sarasota/ What Are Walleye
A Beginner Angler's Guide to the Walleye
If you've never fished before, many of your more experienced fishing buddies will probably recommend you go after the walleye. This popular fish, which is also Minnesota's state fish, is a challenge to catch but when you do reel one in, you'll find that it's all worth the effort. Here are some fascinating things you might want to know about the walleye:
Getting to know the walleye
The walleye, or Sander vitreus, is also known as the yellow walleye, yellow pike, pickerel or walleyed pike, never mind that it isn’t a relative of pikes or pickerels. This fish with many names is native to Canada, although it also makes many northern parts of the United States its home. It is the North American cousin of Europe's pike perch.
Characteristics
Walleye are sleek, beautiful fish that can grow to about 30 to 36 inches (75 to 90 cms.) in length. They look like the perch in general appearance. Walleye
Fishing Tips - Sarasota Florida Vacation - http:/etravelmagazine.info/2011/fishing-sarasota/ can reach about 10 to 15 lbs. (5 to 7 kgs.) in weight, although some might even exceed that. A walleye caught in the state of Montana, for example, weighed in at more than 16 lbs. and was measured at over 36 inches long. Walleye have a large mouth filled with sharp teeth.
Walleye are a mixture of gold and olive and the dorsal side tends to be olive, with the color gradually turning golden at the flanks. The belly of the fish is white, with dark saddles at its upper sides.
Female walleye tend to be larger compared to males. How fast they grow will depend on their location. Walleye found in southern regions, for example, tend to grow larger and much faster than other walleye.
Walleye tend to be old geezers, capable of living for a decade or more. In fact, the longest living walleye on record reached a ripe old age of 29. This often happens in fishing areas where populations largely remain untouched. However, in places where populations are heavily fished, walleye reach only about 4 or 5 years of age.
Why walleye?
The reason why it's called the walleye is because its eyes reflect light. Beneath
Fishing Tips - Sarasota Florida Vacation - http:/etravelmagazine.info/2011/fishing-sarasota/ its eye surface lies a layer that gathers light. This makes the fish capable of seeing even in areas with little light, which explains why walleye also stay in deeper waters. This type of behavior is noted by many anglers, who usually fish for the walleye at dusk or at night, when feeding occurs.
Walleye can also see well in rough or breaking water, where it will catch prey. This is why many anglers will look for areas with rough waters. These waters are also referred to as 'walleye chop' because walleye tend to congregate there.
Fishing for walleye
The walleye became a favorite catch among anglers because of their beautiful appearance and impressive size. Many anglers have mounted walleye proudly and many of these catches are a testament to the its striking beauty.
Another reason that makes the walleye a well sought-after fish is that it isn’t that easy to catch. This isn’t the type of fish that you just get up one morning, head off for the lake and hope to catch. In fact, anglers have to watch for certain locations, conditions, weather and even seasons to catch walleye.
Its popularity is also the reason why walleye fishing is regulated to avoid
Fishing Tips - Sarasota Florida Vacation - http:/etravelmagazine.info/2011/fishing-sarasota/ depleting the current population. Agencies in charge of natural resources will often check anglers’ catches to determine if they meet length limitations and quotas. If you fish for walleye, for example, you can’t fillet the fish in such a way that it is unrecognizable. It should be easily identifiable and its actual length measurable. Otherwise, you will be violating regulations.
In Minnesota where the walleye is king, a giant statue of the fish stands. It is so popular with the locals that residents of Minnesota are the largest consumers of the walleye in the U.S. However, the walleye’s fame extends far north, where it remains as one of the fish that Canadians seek on regular fishing trips. Since fishing is well regulated in both the U.S. and Canada, there is good reason that the walleye will remain as popular today as it will be years from now.
What Gear Do You Need
Fishing Gear You Will Need to Catch the Walleye
Catching walleye will depend on your equipment. In fact, more than the boat, it's the gear that will matter most in fishing. True, you can successfully catch walleye with the basic rod and a simple bait hanging from the line but really,
Fishing Tips - Sarasota Florida Vacation - http:/etravelmagazine.info/2011/fishing-sarasota/ when it's walleye you're eyeing, don't you want to increase your chances? Here are some tips on determining what fishing gear you need and how to choose them to catch the elusive walleye:
Choose a good, sturdy rod.
The rod is one of the basic components of your fishing gear. A lot of things ride on the type of fishing rod you buy. If you've never fished before, try buying a basic rod. Don’t buy the fanciest one. As a novice angler, there's a good chance you wouldn’t know what to do with it, at least for now.
If possible, go to the store yourself and pick your own fishing rod. Hold it in your hands and determine if the weight, size and feel are right for you. If you can grip it comfortably, it's probably a good choice.
A heavyweight rod?
In terms of weight, consider the type of water you will be fishing in. Walleye live in lakes and rivers and there will be times when you'll have to fish in rough water. Here, you will be better off choosing a fishing rod that is a bit heavier. A heavier rod will withstand choppy waters and heavy fish. They will also allow you to cast faster.
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The only disadvantage of a heavy rod is that if you're a beginner, it can be tough to handle. But if it's the walleye you want, then an active and heavy fish like this will need a stronger rod. Go for a rod that offers medium action and is about 6 +' to 7' long.
Other than the weight, choose a rod that feels generally comfortable in your hands. Remember that the walleye is a rather elusive creature and you could be handling that rod for a long time in the water. If you aren’t comfortable, you won't enjoy fishing at all.
As for material, fishing rods come in different materials. Three of the most popular include wood, fiberglass and carbon fiber. Again, check how well you can handle it. Check also for flexibility. Walleye can grow up to 30+ inches and they can be quite heavy. Even if you caught a 15-inch fish, struggling with it can be a challenge if your fishing rod is not flexible enough.
Buy a fishing line with the appropriate weight.
Fishing lines will matter when trying to catch the walleye. If you catch a big fish using a line with a low weight, you could lose it in the struggle because the line simply can’t hold the fish. Go for a fishing line in the mid-weight category.
Fishing Tips - Sarasota Florida Vacation - http:/etravelmagazine.info/2011/fishing-sarasota/ A fishing line with an 8 or 10-lb. test will do nicely.
Selecting a reel.
Modern fishing gear will definitely need a good, reliable reel. Otherwise, you'll be spending a half of your time trying to untangle your fishing line just to throw it back into the water. A good reel keeps your line in place, preventing tangles as you go.
Some experts recommend a spinning reel and rod. This type of fishing gear will make it easier for you to use light cranks and jigs, two components often used to catch the walleye. Check for drag. The reel should be smooth and easy, extremely useful if you'll be faced with a walleye who is more than willing to battle it out with you.
Choose a reel that fits well with your rod. Again, don’t choose gear that will weigh you down or be lighter than what you can normally handle. Check the gear that holds and releases the line. An open-faced reel uses a bail while a casting reel can be operated with a button.
Buy a good lure.
Fishing Tips - Sarasota Florida Vacation - http:/etravelmagazine.info/2011/fishing-sarasota/ Although you can use live bait with walleye successfully, you might also want to try using flies and lures to complete your fishing gear. In terms of purchase, by the way, this part is the most fun primarily because flies and lures are produced in different shapes, sizes, colors and function.
To attract the walleye, choose a lure that is a bit bigger and colorful. Colors such as red, blue, silver, perch and chartreuse are a hit with walleye. Stock up on lures and bait that come in natural shades as well. In clear water, walleye find these irresistible.
Do You Need a Boat for Walleye Fishing
Need a Boat to Fish for Walleye? Use This Practical Guide
Fishing for walleye is fun and challenging because this isn’t an easy fish to catch. Anglers also prefer this fish because of its beauty and size. Although many anglers have had success in fishing for walleye from the banks of lakes or rivers, the need to use a boat often crops up in the pursuit of this elusive fish.
Fishing for walleye from a boat
Fishing Tips - Sarasota Florida Vacation - http:/etravelmagazine.info/2011/fishing-sarasota/ Using a boat to fish for walleye will depend on where the fish is found during a particular fishing trip. Practically speaking, any spot on a lake or river that can't be reached if you're standing on the shore is only accessible if you use a boat. A boat is also a practical means with which to follow the walleye.
And really, who hasn’t found fishing in a boat more comfortable? You're dry, you're seated comfortably and you can even doze off as you wait for the elusive walleye. Imagine doing that while fishing from the shore or standing waist deep in water.
What type of boat do you need?
When it comes to using a fishing boat, you have dozens of choices. However, not every one is a perfect fit. Consider some of these facts before honing in on your fishing boat:
Are you fishing alone?
If you're the type of angler who likes to enjoy catching fish by your lonesome, a small boat should be enough to hold you and your equipment comfortably. However, if you're fishing with a buddy or several other anglers, find a boat that you all can fit into, with room to move and store your gear.
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Your location
Will you be on a river or a lake? Larger bodies of water such as lakes and reservoirs make it impractical to choose a boat without a motor. Or if it does have one, it should be capable of higher speeds to let you move from one area to another quickly and conveniently. A boat with an electric trolling motor, for example, may not be very effective on larger bodies of water.
Another consideration is the drift factor. A lake may seem serene and motionless but there are unseen currents that will move the boat in a certain direction. Of course, there's also the wind factor. Consider if the boat will drift faster from the bow or the stern and find out how you will have to compensate in case of an uneven drift.
Your equipment
The barest essentials when it comes to walleye fishing using a boat include your fishing gear and nothing else. These days, however, more anglers prefer to bring in more equipment, such as coolers with ice for storage, cleaning equipment, even cameras.
Fishing Tips - Sarasota Florida Vacation - http:/etravelmagazine.info/2011/fishing-sarasota/ If you will be loading your boat with this stuff and more, make sure there's enough room in the boat for you to move.
Weather
If you'll be fishing on a windy day, will the boat be able to handle it? On overcast days when fishing for walleye is nearly effortless, does your boat provide you and your equipment with enough protection in case of a downpour?
Your dream fishing boat
Now that you have an idea of what you need from a boat to enjoy fishing for walleye, it's time to choose your boat. First, of course, is the size and material. Smaller boats that can hold two to three people are about 14' to 20' long. Longer ones are about 22' long. These are made of aluminum.
Choose whether you prefer a V-bottom or a flat bottom boat. V-bottoms, particularly those with deep Vs, are better for use in deeper and larger bodies of water because they are more stable against heavy waves. Regular Vs are best used for smaller lakes.
Fishing Tips - Sarasota Florida Vacation - http:/etravelmagazine.info/2011/fishing-sarasota/ Manufacturers and dealers also offer different layouts and styles, so simply choose one that will offer the best in terms of comfort and functionality.
Fiberglass boats are also excellent units, often built to provide speed and durability. These boats are usually bigger, ranging from 15' to about 30'. If you fish frequently for walleye in rougher waters, try a center console boat. When you're far from shore, you will have to rely on this boat for endurance and stability. It is also equipped with onboard gear you'll find useful offshore.
If you like practicality and function, folding inflatable boats are ideal. These boats are perfect if you're mobile or if you prefer to use your own boat for fly-ins. They are easy to store and may be used both for freshwater and saltwater fishing. If you prefer more in terms of performance, bigger boats make excellent choices for sports fishing.
Want more comfort and company? Choose cruisers or walk-around boats that can hold you, your friends or family and your equipment. In terms of creature comforts, these boats are well equipped, perfect if you want to spend a full day (or more) onboard to fish for walleye.
The Best Time to Fish for Walleye – Is it Spring
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Fishing for Walleye in the Spring
There are many things that you can associate with spring. For the spiritual person, it’s a signal of a new life. Flowers start to bloom and ice starts to melt. For anglers, however, it means a time for great walleye fishing. During the spring, the temperature of the water turns from cold to warm and the walleye will start to move from their winter water habitats.
The main purpose for walleye at this time is to reproduce; thus, they will move to customary spawning grounds. Their movements do differ.
Others will cover a very short mile, probably finding themselves in reservoirs and lakes. Some of them may venture farther until they will reach the rivers of Mississippi.
If you are seeking to catch the most number of walleye, you should be able to spot them before they start to spawn. They normally gather in their respective spawning sites and other barrier structures that generally stop them from moving.
When Walleye Start to Spawn
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There are certain weather conditions that may be ideal for spawning. This includes the temperature of the water, how long the day lasts, as well as the rubble and rocky shore lines. The amount of light as well as the length of daylight can affect the feeding patterns of the walleye. The temperature of the water, meanwhile, plays an integral part during spawning and it can even determine how much they reproduce once they have completed the spawning activity.
The Best Temperature for Spawning
The most ideal time for spawning among walleye is 40 degrees Fahrenheit. They will usually end once the water warms up to 52 degrees. They will normally hatch their eggs among hard structures such as rubbles and rocks. The eggs should be properly secured among enclosed areas so they can be adequately protected from predator fish that love to feast on newly hatched eggs.
During spawning, there should be hardly any change in temperature. The water should slowly start to warm up. There should be no severe and immediate temperature swings, especially during the periods of gestation and hatching. The shorelines found in the east and the north become the perfect
Fishing Tips - Sarasota Florida Vacation - http:/etravelmagazine.info/2011/fishing-sarasota/ breeding grounds of walleye that are going to spawn.
Now, by nature, walleye fish really don’t have any knowledge which direction is south, north, east, or west. The shorelines at these directions are the most preferred for them because they receive the most amount of sunlight all day. Thus, the warmest waters are those located near the shore.
Two Types of Migration
There are also two kinds of migrations that should be noted. First are those walleye that migrate from the lakes to their usual spawning locations. The second kind of movement that should be watched for is that of walleye fish that don’t go to tributaries and rivers and instead settle in open waters as well as shallow reefs so they can hatch their eggs.
Spring Walleye Fishing in Wisconsin
Walleye aren’t really the best trophies for those who are involved in sport fishing in Wisconsin; however, they are still highly sought.
The best time for anglers to fish walleye in the Great Lakes during the spring is in the month of April. This is because the walleye are undergoing a transition.
Fishing Tips - Sarasota Florida Vacation - http:/etravelmagazine.info/2011/fishing-sarasota/ They are going to move from pre-spawn to the spawning period until they can move on to post-spawn period.
Where to Target
If you want to catch the best kinds of fish, in their most number, you should target areas such as the rivers as they would frequently settle there. Moreover, catching them doesn’t have to be difficult for you as you can access them even if you don’t have a boat or a special kind of tackle at hand. Walleye that spawn in the river are usually found in deep holes in narrow waters. They may stop once they encounter the rapids, dam, and other kinds of barriers. They will continue on as they are permitted to move.
Those fish that are found in the rivers deep holes are likely to be in their pre-spawn period. They will always bite if you can persuade them the proper way. You can settle for vertical jigging or use live bait. You can search in these holes and start jigging the bottom. Slowly move toward the waters column until you will know where they are most active.
The Best Time to Fish for Walleye – Is it Summer
Fishing Tips - Sarasota Florida Vacation - http:/etravelmagazine.info/2011/fishing-sarasota/ Fishing for Walleye in the Summer
Summer indicates numerous activities. For example, children are usually sent to summer camps right after school ends. It also means a time for great vacations to different states and countries.
For those who are looking for some adventure, however, particularly fishing, they can venture to the rivers and lakes and look for walleye.
Get into the Sport
The summer months may be the best times to look for walleye, especially for any individuals who are into sport fishing. This is because walleye are much harder to catch during this season. In summer, walleye are usually found in sand bars. At night, they are seen eating on crayfish as well as minnows. That is why if you are trying to catch walleye, your best bet for live bait includes bottom bouncer rigs, worms, and minnows.
Movements of Walleye
Walleye also tend to move to cooler and darker waters as the rivers and lakes start to get warm. They can be seen attached to various structures including
Fishing Tips - Sarasota Florida Vacation - http:/etravelmagazine.info/2011/fishing-sarasota/ deep weed beds, islands, and land forms located under water.
Once fall starts to approach, they go back to their spring routine and they will frequent rocks and rubbles as well as shallow areas. They will also gobble on any kind of fish so they can store up energy and prepare for the coming of winter. Any angler should take note the months of July and August. These months may not be the best times to actually catch them.
Combination of Live Bait and Spinner
If you are fishing for walleye, make sure you combine a spinner and live bait. Spinners are known for their speed, which can catch up with walleye that are simply hard to catch. To the spinner to be appropriately place in the zone, you should also combine it with a bottom bouncer. The latter can allow you to manipulate the bait anywhere you want it.
More on this in an upcoming chapter.
Tips on Catching Walleye during the Summer
1. Study the walleye as well as their seasonal habitats.
Fishing Tips - Sarasota Florida Vacation - http:/etravelmagazine.info/2011/fishing-sarasota/ Walleye fish are most likely to go deeper during the summer season. Moreover, they don’t like to run after bait in very far distances. If you are catching walleye in natural lakes, you can start observing weed beds edges with the help of a finder. If they aren’t there, you can proceed into their transition zones like the creek channels. If you are looking for them in reservoirs, you can search for structures and baitfish. They can also be present in large reservoirs.
2. Fish during the midsummer.
Walleye fishing is at its best compared to fishing during the spring or early parts of the summer. You also get to know the waters that they constantly reside. You may also need to look where the baitfish would usually settle. It’s likely that walleye fish will find their way there.
3. Pay attention to details.
You can use certain tools such as a depth finder. This will help you mark areas where they can be a substantial amount of fish. You should also be ready any time walleye start to take on your bait. Thus, make sure that your lures can go in whatever direction you want it to go and that the hooks are sharp enough to anchor the walleye.
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4. Choose your patterns and lure colors carefully.
You can complement the forage base to your lures. You can also choose fluorescent colors. You can start by using offshore planner boards coupled with crank baits. If this won’t give you the kind of produce that you like, you can proceed to vertical fishing and jigging spoons.
Challenges to Walleye Fishing during Summer
Deep water walleye fishing has its own challenges, especially during the summer. Normally, those who have found their way into the deepest portions of the water will likely die immediately. This is because the walleye don’t have much time to adjust their air bladders to any changes in body pressure. This is the usual scenario when the weather turns out to be very hot.
Sometimes to solve the problem, you can fish walleye during nighttime. The majority of the baitfish settle deep into the water during the day, but they will move in water columns at night. Once the sun has set completely, you can begin marking their areas with the aid of a depth finder.
Fishing Tips - Sarasota Florida Vacation - http:/etravelmagazine.info/2011/fishing-sarasota/ The Best Time to Fish for Walleye – Is it Autumn
Fishing for Walleye in the Autumn
A walleye is a kind of freshwater fish commonly found in the northern parts of the United States and in most of the lakes and rivers found in Canada. It is also known as the yellow walleye, yellow pike, pickerel, and walleyed pike. Walleye are a favorite among fishermen because they are such a challenge to catch.
The Tale of the Cold Front
Walleye do react to certain weather conditions. Normally people attribute it to the cold front; however, everybody knows that there’s more to it than that. In fact, the most perfect times to catch a monstrous walleye will only happen less than a dozen times in a particular season. That is why a fisherman or a walleye hunter, for that matter, should be able to monitor the weather and the clouds so they can beat the storm.
Cold fronts have a tremendous effect on how many fish you can catch. But what causes it? A cold front happens when moist warm air and cold dry air collide with each other. The warm air is pushed in east-southeast direction. Other signs of cold front include thunderstorm, snow, tornadoes, rain, and
Fishing Tips - Sarasota Florida Vacation - http:/etravelmagazine.info/2011/fishing-sarasota/ unstable weather.
Find the Action
The best types of walleye show up during the fall. Thus, its also the best time for walleye fishing. What you simply need to do is to look for the best walleye action. In all honesty, fishing for walleye in the fall can be so unpredictable, but as a majority of the people say, the worst weather conditions can give you the largest and best kind of fish. Most walleye fish are females. This is because female walleye should be able to eat a lot of food so they can nourish the eggs that they are carrying.
When it comes to fishing for walleye in a river, the fall can be the best season. This is because schools of them will start to move towards the dams and you can usually see them gathering in heads of pools.
The Challenge of Walleye Fishing
Fishing for walleye in the fall can be a very big challenge because the fish may be scattered in different areas of the rivers and lakes. You should take note that the best walleye fishing spot during the summer may not be the same during the fall. This is because the thermal layers associated with summer
Fishing Tips - Sarasota Florida Vacation - http:/etravelmagazine.info/2011/fishing-sarasota/ aren’t present during autumn. Because the level of oxygen starts to even out, the walleye will either be located in weed lines of shallow waters or in the deepness of the lake.
Go into the Shallow Waters
If you want to look for the biggest kinds of walleye, you better go to shallow waters. This is because hungry and large walleye will usually try to find food around that area. So shallow are they that they only have enough water to cover them. So if you happen to drop by that location, don’t forget to bring the rod. They will be happy to take a bite. Once they’re full, however, they will normally descend into the depths of the lake.
Change in Tactics
Some people complain that they can’t catch walleye during the fall season and blame it on the fish. What they don’t know, though, is that it has something to do with their strategies. They should match their fishing techniques with the seasonal changes of the fish. For example, even the environments of the rivers and lakes change in the months of September to October. It also means that your fishing strategies during the summer may not work during the fall.
Fishing Tips - Sarasota Florida Vacation - http:/etravelmagazine.info/2011/fishing-sarasota/ Techniques in Catching Walleye during Fall
1. When its fall, what matters most are the big baits and minnows. Go for six-inch minnows attached to a jig of around + ounces. You can jig your bait vertically above the fish. You should be patient enough, however, and give time for the fish to react. While waiting, do the action repeatedly.
2. Think of using light jigs and line. This is because it can take a long time for the fish to react, considering the coldness of the water. It can’t suck big amounts of river or lake water and it can’t flare its gills the way it used to when the water was warm. Thus, in the fall walleye fishing, you need to concentrate heavily. For best results, you can extend your fishing season for 1 or 2 months more. You will have better chances of getting the best trophy.
The Best Time to Fish for Walleye – Do You Prefer Ice Fishing Ice Fishing
When it comes to fishing for walleye, you don’t need to wait for spring, summer, or fall to come. You can fish right through the cold, hard ice.
What Ice Anglers Do
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If you are truly a serious ice angler, you should watch out for the early formation of ice. You should also be religious enough to watch it transform slowly into ice. Once it happens, you need to wait a little longer, perhaps a couple of weeks, before walleye will start to gather underneath. Normally, their bite will soon disappear and the oxygen level will disappear. Your best solution will be to look for where the fish move and get to them.
Factors that Affect Movements of Walleye
There are many factors that can affect the movements of walleye during the winter. For instance, they have the tendency to move into deeper water. This may be due to the dropping water temperature. They can fall into the preferred and the maximum temperature of 39 degrees Fahrenheit.
There is also shortened daytime coupled with snow cover and ice. This will tremendously destroy aquatic vegetation. It will cause the weeds to turn brown until they wilt and die. The elimination of weeds can mean the loss of their food source and protective cover.
Walleye also tend to move deeper when they are bothered by different types of fishing traffic. This includes the passage of snowmobiles, cars, and noisy
Fishing Tips - Sarasota Florida Vacation - http:/etravelmagazine.info/2011/fishing-sarasota/ trucks. Any ruckus happening on the top of the lake will force the walleye fish to dig deep.
How to Find Them
So you can truly succeed with walleye ice fishing, you should know when to hit the iced water. In fact, you may have to settle for a late trip during the winter. At this time, walleye fish will be preparing themselves as they are about to spawn during the spring.
The challenge, however, is ice fishing in the middle of dead winter. You will have to think of the water below as well as the movements of the fish during the day. What makes it worse is that even if there are predators, walleye fish may not be active at all.
Your best solution is to be truly flexible in locating the walleye when you are ice fishing. You should permit yourself to move from one location to another. This is because the fish do move all throughout the day, and you should be able to follow their path.
Know Where They Will Likely Spawn
Fishing Tips - Sarasota Florida Vacation - http:/etravelmagazine.info/2011/fishing-sarasota/ When late winter starts to set in, walleye will travel. They will be looking for specific locations where they can spawn. If you are aware of their migration routes, you can start digging the holes and wait for the walleye to come.
If you know where they will likely spawn, it will be very easy for you to catch them. This is because once the water temperature starts to heat up and they began moving into the area, they are usually hungry and will be happy to take a bite of your bait.
When Is the Best Time to Fish?
The best time to ice fish for walleye is during late evening or early in the morning. The reason may not be mainly because of the walleye but because there could be so many anglers during the middle of the day. You need to ease out of the competition.
You will also find it extremely helpful to dig holes in different locations and in varying lengths. You shouldn’t expect that you will be able to get them when you settle for similar levels.
Equipment to Use
Fishing Tips - Sarasota Florida Vacation - http:/etravelmagazine.info/2011/fishing-sarasota/ Don’t use a lighter line. This is because when you cut a hole, you may be creating jagged edges. This will make your line very susceptible to breakage. Heavier line will work best even if you’re seeking average-sized walleye.
Many anglers use the jigging technique to attract walleye. And because they will be extremely hungry around this time, they may be somewhat aggressive during their feeding frenzy. It’s wise therefore to make use of a bait and a lure that possess flash or vibration.
River versus Lake Fishing
Fishing Tips for River and Lake Walleye
Walleye are one of the most sought-after fish in North American waters. Also known as dore, jackfish, pickerel, walleyed pikes and marble eyes because of its distinctive gold and olive green eyes, walleye are characterized by their spotless fins, black rear, and white-tipped tail. Walleye may be found in rivers and lakes.
Fishing Tips for River Walleye
Fishing Tips - Sarasota Florida Vacation - http:/etravelmagazine.info/2011/fishing-sarasota/ If you’re lucky, the river you frequently fish may have walleye swimming in them throughout the year. This is especially true with bigger rivers. Nevertheless, it’s best that you ask local authorities regarding walleye seasons. In some instances, walleye only enter rivers to enjoy better water temperatures at a given point in time or for spawning before returning to their lake origins.
The best places to ask are Conservation and Natural Resources offices and local fishing and bait shops. It’s also prudent to ask if they have walleye fishing seasons and if so, what the requirements are regarding sizes and so forth.
For rivers with considerable depth, you’ll more likely catch walleye swimming around twenty-five feet below the surface. They could even be swimming deeper than that in the larger rivers or in winter or fishing during mid-summer. In shallower rivers, however, you have a good chance of catching walleye at just 10 feet below.
For some, the best fishing technique or tactic to use for catching fish is by utilizing lead head jigs. Consider the casting distance when shopping for jigs because you’ll want to cover the greatest possible area with every cast. Colors are also important, and you’ll want something easily spotted even underwater. Buy something that will best resemble the fish they feed on.
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If you notice a current, make sure to cast your jig upstream. Let it go slowly, reach the bottom then pull it up just as slowly. Exert light effort because walleye are more vulnerable to subtle approaches. Expect to lose a good number of jigs each fishing trip; it’s a given when it comes to walleye fishing.
Use live minnows as bait. Hook through the lips then make sure your bait works with the current and continues to be on display. If you see a walleye doing its best to go after your minnow but consistently falling short, try to re-hook your bait but this time pinning it through the dorsal fin. The latter will, however, make it harder for you to retain control of your bait in hard and strong currents.
Fishing Tips for Lake Walleye
Walleye may both be found in natural and man-made impoundment lakes. In most cases, the best time of the year to fish for walleye is during the summer not because they’re easier to fish but rather because people have more free time to enjoy fishing.
Walleye are creatures of habit. The first thing to remember is that walleye prefer swimming in the most suitable temperatures (approximately 73 F)
Fishing Tips - Sarasota Florida Vacation - http:/etravelmagazine.info/2011/fishing-sarasota/ during the summer but at the same time, they may also swim where there’s a lot of food for them to enjoy and when there are no bigger and predatory fish to worry about. Sunlight is also another thing they must absolutely avoid!
Again, save time by going directly to the local authorities and ask about the best spots for fishing. There are, however, a number of tips to remember where it’s best to fish depending on the time of the day.
At dawn, walleye can be easily found between weed beds. Remember that they’re nocturnal feeders so they’re up all night eating. At dawn, they’re just getting ready to leave their feeding places and go deeper to avoid sunlight.
When the sun is fully up, expect to find walleye in shaded areas. When there are no structures to provide shade, walleye could go deeper, anywhere between twenty and fifty feet. In areas with structures around like rock piles, walleye are sure to be in the vicinity because they also provide shade for them.
Walleye travel in schools like other fish. When you’ve caught a fish in a particular area, you’re sure to catch more from the same area.
Ultimately, there is really little difference between fishing for lake and river walleye. As long as you’re familiar with the routines of walleye, you’re sure to
Fishing Tips - Sarasota Florida Vacation - http:/etravelmagazine.info/2011/fishing-sarasota/ go home with one or more excellent catches!
All About Bait Choosing the Right Bait for Catching Walleye
As we discussed previously, walleye are mostly found in North American waters and are predatory members of the perch species. Their eyes appear glassy, thus its name, and their bodies have distinctive marks for easy identification. Walleye can both be found in rivers and lakes and prefer deeper waters as they grow older because of their dislike of sunlight. Although they don’t put up strenuous fights when caught, their preference for dwelling at the bottom makes choosing the right bait all the more important.
Choosing the Right Bait for Catching Walleye
Whether you’re using real or fake bait, just remember to choose one that resembles a walleye prey the most. Walleye have excellent eyesight so don’t expect them to be fooled with poor bait choices.
Types of Live Bait for Catching Walleye
Fishing Tips - Sarasota Florida Vacation - http:/etravelmagazine.info/2011/fishing-sarasota/ Lead Heads and Leeches - Fishing novices would do well by starting out with a lead head jig and leech combination. A lead head jig is more complex than using a plain hook. A leech is also the easiest bait because you can virtually prick it anywhere and still have it effectively serve its purpose. You can also use an artificial tail together with this baiting combination but it is unnecessary.
If you’re using a lead head jig and leech, it will achieve the greatest number of catches when you cast it past a riffle edge and proceed downstream. For shallower waters, make sure you keep your bait directly vertical. Deeper waters and stronger currents can make it hard to keep your bait vertical so you’ll have to use heavier bait in such instances.
It’s better to have one other person with you when you’re fishing from a boat. The person controlling your boat should be able to work with the current as it goes downstream and you focus on fishing for walleye.
Spinner Rigs and Minnows - Live minnows are arguably the most popular bait used for fishing walleye. Spinner rigs are definitely harder to prepare and use than jigs and though you can purchase ready-made ones from local fishing shops, you’ll usually find something you’ve personally made more effective.
Fishing Tips - Sarasota Florida Vacation - http:/etravelmagazine.info/2011/fishing-sarasota/ The best partner to a spinner-rigged minnow is a moderate to high-end fishing rod with above average speed of use. Let your bait stay approximately one foot away from the bottom. They don’t work well in rifles.
Types of Artificial Bait for Catching Walleye
Lizards - Walleye are fooled by plastic lizards because they resemble the amphibians and mudpuppies they prey on. Of course, you’ll have to jiggle them several times to cause the kind of vibration that walleye understand. The ideal size for lizards is four inches but you can go as far as seven inches if you feel that’s what you need. As for the jig heads, use anything between one half to 5/8 ounces.
Colors matter as well. While experts advise fishing enthusiasts to purchase lizards in the shades of orange, green, and red, some prefer their artificial baits to resemble the traditional colors of purple and blue of basses.
Worms - Plastic and rubber worms have long been used as bait for bass but they don’t enjoy the same level of popularity for those dedicated to catching walleye.
To use this type of bait effectively, start by dragging it on the top of reefs just
Fishing Tips - Sarasota Florida Vacation - http:/etravelmagazine.info/2011/fishing-sarasota/ so walleye in the vicinity have a better chance of seeing it. In shallow waters, just cast it out and then wait for it to drift to the bottom on its own. When it does, jerk your rod up once in a while to set out vibrations.
The good news for walleye fishing enthusiasts is that there’s a company currently working on plastic worms specifically designed for baiting walleye. Not only do they greatly resemble the appearance and, even to some extent, the taste of live bait, they are also safe to use for the environment!
Shad - Shad take the appearance of minnows and automatically work to serve its purpose once you’ve cast it upon a river or lake. When shopping for shad, make sure you choose the color that will best resemble live minnows depending on the time of the day you’re fishing.
Other types of artificial bait you can try using are tubes and grubs.
What About Rigging and Jigging
Basic Things to Remember about Rigging and Jigging for Walleye
Rigging and jigging are two of the primary ways to use your bait and start catching some delicious walleye. If it’s your first time to fish for walleye, you’ll
Fishing Tips - Sarasota Florida Vacation - http:/etravelmagazine.info/2011/fishing-sarasota/ enjoy greater productivity rates once you understand the basics of the two.
Basic Things to Remember about Rigging
To rig live bait for walleye, you’ll have to use a slip sinker. This is connected to the hook you need to pierce your live bait. With rigged bait, you only have to drop it in the water and allow the bait to do its work. The constant movement of your live bait will set out vibrations that will induce the walleye into taking the bait; hook, line, and sinker.
Rigging is a technique more effective in a specific fishing area. It isn’t ideal if you wish to cover the maximum possible area because of how it works. In rigging, you and your live bait stay put in one area. You wait for the walleye to come after you and not the other way around. Walleye traveling for better water temperatures are more prone to taking the bait so you’ll have more chances of catching them during the day. At night, walleye are too busy feeding from their long-time preferred habitats to notice your bait.
A spinning rig is one of the most popular choices for catching walleye. When you’re using a spinning rig, you should remember to keep your rig vertical while you keep your boat stationary. If you sense that a walleye has taken the bait have your companion move your boat on top of your catch as you begin
Fishing Tips - Sarasota Florida Vacation - http:/etravelmagazine.info/2011/fishing-sarasota/ pulling the fish to the surface.
When shopping for rigs, consider the leader length you’ll use because you’ll want more length to handle the finickier walleye. Colors rarely matter.
Basic Things to Remember about Jigging
With rigging, it is up to the bait to make the necessary action to catch the eye of walleye in this instance. In jigging, however, an angler is used and controlled by the individual to produce the necessary bait movement and action. Because of the presence and function of anglers, artificial bait may be used with jigging. The main advantages of artificial jigs over real ones are the added scent and better hook strength.
Another difference between jigging and rigging is the timing. When you feel a bite, you reel in the rigged bait slowly but with jigged baits, you set your hook right away.
Here are the several types of jigging techniques you can use.
Trolling Jigs - Jig trolling techniques may work where spinner rigs and crank baits have failed. Generally, however, jig trolling is used for walleyes not
Fishing Tips - Sarasota Florida Vacation - http:/etravelmagazine.info/2011/fishing-sarasota/ traveling in schools and swimming in medium depths.
To make trolling more successful, try to bounce your jig at the bottom as your boat moves forward. Long-shank hooks are a preferable match with trolling jigs because they can keep your baits vertical.
Vertical Jigs - Whether you’re fishing in lakes or rivers, as long as the depths are eight feet or more, vertical jigs may be used effectively. Vertical jigs work better in rivers, of course, but you can increase their effectiveness by looking for the deeper areas of lakes.
To keep your bait vertical, look for long-shank hooks again as well as round heads. With a long-shank hook, you get a better grip on your walleye once you start reeling it in unlike with a shorter hook. Using light-wire together with vertical jigs also makes a better combination because they are less vulnerable to snagging.
Consider the jig weight when using vertical jigs for fishing. This is especially true if you’re fishing in deeper waters and stronger currents. With vertical jigging, it’s better to have someone with you so you can fully concentrate on manipulating your fishing rod.
Fishing Tips - Sarasota Florida Vacation - http:/etravelmagazine.info/2011/fishing-sarasota/ Pitching Jigs - Pitching jigs are more effective if you’re fishing for walleyes in shallower depths. Most cases, walleyes are hiding amidst structures and break lines in shallow depths. Just remember that walleye, especially older ones, don’t like sunlight so they’re sure to look for shade. When pitching jigged bait, you need to use short-shank hooks and keep bait horizontal.
In the end, jigging and rigging have their respective shares of pros and cons so consider trying them out to see which one works better for you.
Should You Hire a Guide A Beginner Angler's Guide to Hiring a Guide
Fishing can be a very relaxing and enjoyable activity. However, for newbies, it can be quite challenging to find the right spot. Hiring a guide will help you enjoy your fishing trip so much more by taking care of the details of your trip. But do you really need one? And if you do, how do you go about hiring one?
Why you need a fishing guide
Unless you have a secret fishing hole that you don’t want to tell anyone about, you'll appreciate the help of a fishing guide. A fishing guide can offer you helpful tips about where to find the perfect location. They can also tell you
Fishing Tips - Sarasota Florida Vacation - http:/etravelmagazine.info/2011/fishing-sarasota/ what time of the year or day is best for a fishing trip.
If you're new to the area, a fishing guide can show you where to go, what to expect and what laws you'll need to comply with. If you're a beginner, hiring a guide will also be beneficial, particularly if you can't make heads or tails about choosing the right fishing gear.
Why you might not need a fishing guide
Hiring a fishing guide isn’t necessary if you're experienced and prefer to work on your own. If you'll be fishing with a group and some of your friends are experienced, you don’t really need a fishing guide. Hiring a fishing guide can also cost a lot of money and there's really no guarantee you'll catch fish.
However, if you prefer the convenience of having a fishing guide, here are some tips you can use:
Find a local guide.
A guide who operates in the locality where you want to fish will be more knowledgeable than a guide who doesn’t come from the same area. They are also a lot cheaper since you don’t have to pay for extras.
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Look for a fishing guide by asking other anglers for references. They could recommend a good fishing guide for you to use. Plus, you'll have a better idea what to expect since these people have firsthand experience of how the guide performs.
You can also check with online sites that let you search for guides by area or locality. Check out fishing forums. Many fishing guides participate in these discussions and some members may even give you some recommendations. If you prefer, you can even join online fishing groups with activities in your area.
If you still can't find a guide, ask your local fly or fishing shops. They should be able to help you with great references.
Look for a licensed and insured guide.
When interviewing your fishing guide, it's important that you work with one who is licensed. Fishing, especially for game fish, requires that you follow certain state regulations and rules, which an unlicensed guide will know little about. To make sure you don’t do anything illegal or unethical, work with someone who has a license.
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An insured guide is also safer to work with because he's covered in case anything happens. He should also have a permit to work in the area where he will be taking you.
Ask for experience.
Talk to the guide yourself. You'll have a better idea of how well you'll work together during your interview. Discuss the type of fishing you want to do and what type of fish you're interested in catching. Look for a guide who has a good experience. Of course, you'll have to pay more but it will be worth it.
Determine your budget.
Fishing should be fun and relaxing so when you receive your bill, it shouldn’t leave you shocked and upset. Before hiring a guide, find out how much the fees are, since they can vary. Most guides will charge you about $150, with a maximum of about $500 a day. The fee will cover 2 to 3 anglers.
If you prefer a chartered trip, a boat with crew will charge about $500 to over $1000 a day, which should cover 5 to 6 people. If you want something cheaper, get in touch with fishing boats that offer public outings. You can
Fishing Tips - Sarasota Florida Vacation - http:/etravelmagazine.info/2011/fishing-sarasota/ enjoy fishing for as little as $30 to $80 a day, although you'll have to share the trip with at least 20 other people, sometimes more.
What about the tip?
Most guides don’t work for tips. However, a tip is a token of gratitude and a nice touch especially if your guide has done a great job. Give your guide about 10 to 15% of the fee. If you're really generous, a 20% tip is a nice gesture and will make him even more enthusiastic about your next fishing trip if you choose to hire the same guide again.
Ever Try a Fly-in
Fishing for Walleye? Try Fly-in Resorts
Fishing can be an excellent hobby and sport but what if you live in an area where the waters don’t always offer you a chance to find your dream catch? If you prefer convenience and comfort, try fly-in resorts. In the United States and Canada, fly-in resorts do a brisk business, thanks to the enthusiasm of anglers who prefer to get away and be in hot pursuit of their prized walleye.
Why go to fly-in resorts
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A fly-in resort is essentially an exclusive outpost in an area near a lake or river. Its main purpose is to provide accommodations and services for hobby fishermen and serious anglers who want to have fun and find time to relax. It's a waste of good money to spend a few hours in these resorts and then leave.
Fly-in resorts also offer accommodations at remote outposts so if privacy is a concern, you'll find what you'll need here. In many fly-in resorts such as those found in Northwestern Ontario and in certain areas in the U.S., for example, may only be reached using a plane, which increases its adventure factor.
Many fly-in resorts also offer outfitting services so fishing gear rentals are available. Since walleye are also a challenge to catch, fly-in resorts also offer fishing guides to assist guests.
What you can expect
Services offered by fly-in resorts vary from the simplest where you have the bare but decent essentials to the luxurious, complete with expensive beddings, crew and staff. Cabins will often include separate bedrooms, bathrooms, toilets and kitchens complete with necessary appliances.
Fishing Tips - Sarasota Florida Vacation - http:/etravelmagazine.info/2011/fishing-sarasota/ Since your goal is to fish for walleye, check to see if fishing licenses and taxes are included in the package. Boat rentals are often included in the price, but you'll have to check with the resort for certain limits or restrictions. If you catch your walleye, most resorts will also offer to clean and fillet your catch for you.
Most fly-in resorts will require a deposit within a specified period of time before you check in. Watch out for this and make sure to book only if you're truly sure of your trip. Most fly-in resorts won’t refund your deposit in case of a no-show.
A fly-in resort package often includes air transportation from a designated location to the outpost and back again. You might also want to check if your fly-in resort has special arrangements with airlines or shuttle services. Special rates, usually labeled 'Fisherman's Fare', are often offered to attract more guests. Check with local travel agencies as well, if you want to take advantage of these discounted prices.
If you prefer privacy
Most fly-in resorts will have staff and crew on hand to meet your needs and offer their services in case of emergencies. However, if you're capable and prefer being on your own or with your family and friends, there are fly-in
Fishing Tips - Sarasota Florida Vacation - http:/etravelmagazine.info/2011/fishing-sarasota/ resorts that let you rent the whole area by yourself with no neighbors, no fellow guests and yes, no cabin staff or crew. These locations are quite safe and to ensure their guests' well being, resort staff will usually fly in every other day to check on you or replenish supplies. Otherwise, you're left to enjoy fishing for your walleye in peace.
How much will it cost?
All these privileges and remote accommodations don’t come cheap. Don’t consider fly-in resorts if you're working on a budget or don’t want to spend a dime over a hundred bucks.
Most fly-in resorts offer packaged trips with 3-day packages to 7-day packages and the cost of which will depend on the number of people who will be flying-in and on the type of services offered. Of course, the more luxurious the accommodations and services you'll receive, the more it will cost you.
Expect to spend an average of $950 for a package, with discounts in case you will be bringing children younger than 12. If you prefer a cheaper package and live near an area that is great for walleye fishing, try drive-in resorts. These resorts often offer excellent prices for a day of fishing. Once you're done, simply pack up and leave after paying a small fee.
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If you're serious about catching a prize walleye, staying at a fly-in resort will be a great idea not just for a fishing holiday for also for your family and friends. Costly probably, but once you've tried it, you'll find that it's more than worth the price.
Preserving Your Prize Winning Walleye
Tips on Mounting Your Prized Walleye: Taxidermy Techniques, Fish Handling and Advice on Finding the Right Taxidermist
A good-sized walleye (a fish sized between the legally permitted length to about 30 inches or so) may sometimes be too good to end up getting filleted and fried. Anglers who catch this beautiful fish often prefer to have it mounted instead of having it end up in the pan, primarily because walleye are beautiful fish, capable of reaching impressive lengths and weights. So if you get lucky with a 25" beauty, consider mounting it by using taxidermy techniques.
What is taxidermy?
In Greek, 'taxis' means arrangement and 'derma' means skin. The art and science of taxidermy involves preserving and mounting animal specimens
Fishing Tips - Sarasota Florida Vacation - http:/etravelmagazine.info/2011/fishing-sarasota/ (mainly vertebrates or those with backbones) to be used either for study or for display.
If you think taxidermy or mounting of your prized walleye is just simple 'stuffing' of the fish, you're wrong. A beautiful fish like the walleye needs so much more than just stuffing in order to be put up for display. Remember, you will be mounting the fish for display and not preserving it for future use as food. Techniques involving each differ greatly.
Procedure and cost of mounting
If you're curious about what happens to your prized walleye once it reaches a taxidermist, here is a breakdown of what the procedure of mounting involves:
Materials preparation
To mount your prized walleye, different tools are used, including knives for making incisions, modeling materials to make the body and chemical solutions for preserving the skin. The fish is then measured carefully and its external features are noted. Most taxidermists may even use cameras or drawings in order to record the unique physical characteristics of your walleye.
Fishing Tips - Sarasota Florida Vacation - http:/etravelmagazine.info/2011/fishing-sarasota/ Skinning and tanning
The skin of the walleye is removed and treated with chemicals to preserve it. This takes a while but it's a necessary process to ensure that the skin doesn’t rot or become brittle later.
Molding the body
Depending on the taxidermist, a plaster cast or foam mannequin may be used to represent the body of the walleye. This is where the measurements will matter because the skin has to fit the mold perfectly. The eyes are also replaced with glass or plastic to mimic the real walleye.
As for the cost, it can range from about $350 to $700 depending on size and the work that has to be done. A large-sized walleye may cost more.
Handling your prized walleye for mounting
Before you go to a taxidermist to have your prized walleye mounted, make sure you know how to preserve your fish well. Make sure that the body of the fish is well taken care of.
Fishing Tips - Sarasota Florida Vacation - http:/etravelmagazine.info/2011/fishing-sarasota/ Try to be gentle with the fish during the struggle and avoid damaging the body. Lost scales, damaged fins and tails won’t look well on the mounted walleye. For this, you might have to use a fish net to protect the fish. Never, ever club the fish on the head. You will ruin its shape, making it difficult for the taxidermist to repair.
Have it photographed. A colored photograph will be a good reference later on because the fish's colors will fade after it's taken out of the water.
Next, store your walleye. If you don’t have ice, cover the fish with wet burlap, cloth or newspaper and keep it away from heat and sunlight. If you have a cooler, keep the fish in ice. Unless you can find a taxidermist immediately, best keep the fish refrigerated for about five days. Anymore than that and you'll have to freeze it.
Choosing a taxidermist
Look for references, if possible. Friends and fellow anglers can recommend a good taxidermist and you can even view evidence of their work. If not, ask for a certification as proof that you are dealing with a professional.
Not all taxidermists mount fish, so be sure to ask. Make sure that the
Fishing Tips - Sarasota Florida Vacation - http:/etravelmagazine.info/2011/fishing-sarasota/ mounting shop you bring your fish to will do the actual work. If mounting involves a third party, it will cost more.
If you want the best deal, ask around and don’t just look at the price tag. See if the quality is excellent or at least satisfactory and up to your standards. If the work is bad, take your fish elsewhere.
How long do you have to wait to earn your trophy?
That depends on how many jobs the taxidermist still has to complete before he takes care of your fish. However, a waiting period of at least a month is reasonable enough. Remember that tanning the skin takes time and once mounted, the walleye has to be completely dry.
Be patient. Some taxidermists may even work on your mounting for 6 months or more.
Should you DIY?
Never try to mount your prized walleye yourself if you have no experience as a taxidermist. Taxidermy is an art and a science and has to be exact and creative at the same time.
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It also requires that you know techniques used in dissection, have a little background on anatomy (at least fish anatomy), tanning and sculpture. Learn about mounting first and practice the art. Once you've perfected it, then you can try mounting your prized walleye. Other Fishing Resources 1. Large Mouth Bass Extreme 2. Advanced Secrets of Tuna Fishing 3. Make Your Own Fish Lures 4. Ice Fishing Tips 5. Powerful Fly Fishing