Best Baits for Walleye: What Works Every Time

Walleye fishing is a blast, but finding the right bait can make or break your day on the water. We all want to catch more fish, right? So, let’s talk about the best baits for walleye that really get those fish biting. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or just getting into walleye fishing, knowing what bait to use can boost your success big time.

What Makes a Good Bait for Walleye?

Walleye are picky eaters. They don’t just go for anything that swims by. They like baits that look natural and move just right. The best baits for walleye usually mimic the small fish or bugs they feed on. Bright colors, subtle movements, and the right size all matter.

Here’s what you want to look for in a bait:

• Realistic action: It should wiggle or flutter like live prey.

• Right size: Not too big, not too small. Usually 2 to 4 inches works well.

• Color: Natural colors like white, yellow, or silver work great, but sometimes bright colors like chartreuse or orange can trigger strikes.

• Durability: You want bait that lasts through a few bites without falling apart.

  
  

Using the right bait can make your fishing trip way more fun and productive. Plus, it’s a good feeling to know you’re using tackle that’s proven to work.

Soft plastic bait for walleye fishing

The Best Baits for Walleye You Should Try

Let’s get into the good stuff. Here are some of the top baits that consistently catch walleye:

1. Jigs with Soft Plastic Bodies

Jigs are a classic choice. They’re simple but deadly. Pair a jig head with a soft plastic body like a grub or minnow imitation, and you’ve got a winner. The jig’s weight helps you get down to where the walleye hang out, and the soft plastic wiggles just right.

• Use colors like white, chartreuse, or pumpkin.

• Try different sizes, but 1/8 to 1/4 ounce jigs are a good start.

• Work the jig slowly near the bottom with little hops.

  
  

2. Live Bait: Minnows and Nightcrawlers

Nothing beats live bait for walleye. Minnows are a favorite because they look like natural prey. Nightcrawlers also work great, especially when you’re fishing in rivers or lakes with a lot of current.

• Hook the minnow through the lips or behind the dorsal fin.

• Use a slip bobber or bottom rig to keep the bait at the right depth.

• Keep the bait lively by moving it gently.

  
  

3. Crankbaits and Hard Plastics

Crankbaits mimic small fish and can cover a lot of water fast. They’re great when walleye are active and chasing baitfish.

• Choose crankbaits that dive to the depth where walleye are holding.

• Colors like silver, gold, or perch patterns work well.

• Vary your retrieve speed to find what triggers bites.

  
  

4. Spinner Rigs and Blade Baits

Spinner rigs with a live minnow or soft plastic trailer are a go-to for many walleye anglers. The flash and vibration attract fish from a distance.

• Use a slow, steady retrieve.

• Blade baits are great in cold water or low light.

• Try silver or gold blades for maximum flash.

  
  

5. Soft Plastic Worms and Grubs

Soft plastics aren’t just for bass. Walleye love them too, especially when rigged on a jig or used on a slip bobber.

• Go for natural colors like white, pearl, or green.

• Rig them weedless if you’re fishing near cover.

• Twitch and pause your retrieve to imitate injured prey.

  
  

Soft plastic bait for walleye fishing

Are Walleye Top or Bottom Feeders?

This is a question that comes up a lot. Knowing where walleye feed helps you pick the right bait and technique.

Walleye are mostly bottom feeders. They like to hang near the lake or river bottom, especially during the day. They hunt by sight and smell, often feeding on small fish, insects, and crustaceans near the bottom.

That means your bait should be close to the bottom most of the time. Jigs, live bait rigs, and spinner rigs that stay near the bottom are your best bets. However, during low light conditions like dawn, dusk, or cloudy days, walleye may move up a bit in the water column to feed.

So, keep your bait near the bottom but be ready to adjust if the fish start moving.

Tips for Using Walleye Fishing Bait Effectively

Using the right bait is just part of the game. How you present it matters just as much. Here are some quick tips to get the most out of your bait:

• Keep it moving slowly: Walleye aren’t aggressive chasers. A slow, steady retrieve often works best.

• Change colors and sizes: If one bait isn’t working, switch it up. Sometimes a small change makes a big difference.

• Fish low light times: Early morning, late evening, and overcast days are prime walleye feeding times.

• Use scent attractants: Adding a little scent to your bait can help trigger bites.

• Match the hatch: Try to use bait that looks like what’s naturally in the water.

  
  

If you want to explore more options, check out this walleye fishing bait selection for quality tackle that’s proven to work.

Getting the Most from Your Tackle

Having the right bait is great, but pairing it with the right tackle makes a huge difference. Here’s what I recommend:

• Use a medium-light to medium action rod for better sensitivity.

• A smooth reel with a good drag system helps when you hook a big walleye.

• Use 6-10 lb test line for a good balance of strength and finesse.

• Keep your hooks sharp and your rigs simple.

  
  

B&D Custom Jigs & Tackle offers a wide variety of high-quality fishing tackle at fair prices. They’re a solid choice if you want gear that performs well without breaking the bank.

Ready to Catch More Walleye?

Now that you know the best baits for walleye and how to use them, it’s time to hit the water. Remember, the key is to keep it simple and pay attention to what the fish want. Try different baits, adjust your presentation, and don’t be afraid to experiment.

Walleye fishing is all about patience and persistence. With the right bait and tackle, you’ll be landing more fish and having a great time doing it. So grab your gear, pick your favorite bait, and get ready for some awesome fishing days ahead!