Surviving The Maumee River Walleye Run

The Maumee River Walleye Run is what happens every spring when the Walleye fish have their spawning and many anglers and fishermen make their way up to Maumee River to catch a few of them. Walleye fish are good food as well as a very nice trophy piece, so you will have a lot of competition. Here is how to deal with the Maumee River Walleye Run.

There are usually plenty of small boats below 18 feet in length, as well as back anglers in the spring, but most people fish for walleye from the water by simply wading in the river itself. It doesn’t matter where you are fishing from, but casting is the best way to do it and catch Walleye fish. There is pretty consistent gear between all Walleye fishers.

For rods, people tend to use a 6′ 2″ medium weight graphite fast spinning rod. If you are looking to cast more heavily, go with Abu Garcia, and if you want lighter, go with St. Croix, but know that pretty much any type or length of rod will catch a fish. However, a 6 foot rod or so is the optimal range.

For the reel, you should get a medium action spinning reel with both front and rear drag. Also make sure the rod has the anti-reverse feature this is a small switch that changes the direction you rotate the reel to draw in the line.

There is other equipment that any river fisherman will need to do well on the Maumee River Walleye Run.

Terminal Tackle is what will contain your hook and lure. 1/8 to 3/4 ounce leadhead jigs are used. They should have brightly colored tails to conceal the hook, and the reason for the lead is so the hook will sink as far to the bottom as possible.

You need a monofilament line that’s 6-10 lbs in weight. The important thing about your fishing line is that it’s strong enough to fight the fish, but thin enough to not be seen as well as being resistant to abrasion on rocks and other river objects.

To wade in the river, you will need neoprene chest waders that come with thick soled boots. The boots need traction, and enough room to add layers of socks beneath should the weather call for it. Also, you need to have an external safety belt in case you fall.

To catch walleye in a net, you can use a short-handled one with a 24 inch opening. Make sure it can be connected to your belt when you are not actually using it.

Other things you will need are a waterproof plastic bag to keep your fishing license in to show the warden, a sunhat with a wide brim, some pliers to remove hooks, sunglasses, hook sharpeners and a bucket to carry anything you catch home with. You also should probably take a rope/chain stringer if you catch more than one fish and a cooler with enough ice to preserve the fish, just in case your home is too far to transport the fish safely.

Dan Eggertsen is a fishing researcher and enthusiast who is committed to providing the best walleye fishing information possible. Get more information on walleye fishing tips here: http://www.askwalleyefishing.com/