Fall Walleye Fishing

Fishing for walleye in the fall can be one of the most productive times of the year. In walleye terms fall can be anytime from late August through mid October.

In fall the walleye are moving from the eastern end of Lake Erie to the Island area of the lake. This is where they go on a feeding frenzy to store up fat for the coming winter. They winter in the deep areas around the Bass Islands.

To catch these fish you need to be aware of when the westward movement begins and how it is progressing. Following walleye fishing reports is the best way to do this. Follow the best charter captains and the anglers that are members of the many fishing clubs. You will have to be diligent and keep up with the walleye fishing reports to know when the fish are in your area or an area you may fish.

Trolling in the deep areas around the Bass Islands is usually the best way to catch them. Unless you know exactly where the fish are, trolling gives you the best chance to find their exact location. At this time of year the walleye are traveling in large schools so when you locate a school the odds are good that you will have success in catching them.

Booking a charter with one of the local charter captains will give you the best chance to catch large numbers of walleye and possibly a trophy fish. They know where the fish are because they are out there every day they can get on the lake. They know how deep they are, what lures they are hitting , the best lure colors to use and how fast to troll. All these are important if you are going to catch large numbers of fish.

If you choose to go it alone with your own boat, you will have to get all your ducks in a row so to speak. First you will need a boat that is Lake Erie worthy. You will need info from the fishing reports to know where the fish are. Pay close attention to those reports that list types of trolling rigs being used, distance back for trolling, type and color of lures and speed that they are trolling. Make sure you are aware of the current and pending marine weather. Don’t skip this step because Lake Erie can brew up a storm faster than most. Once on the lake and at the location you have chosen check out what the rest of the fisherman are doing. Observe things like approximate speed, direction of trolling and buoys in the water to mark where they caught fish. Monitor your radio and listen to the chatter. If you are lucky you can pick up some good info.

Walleye fishing is a great sport. Check the fishing reports and enjoy it with your family and friends. Take a kid fishing