Walleye Lures and Bait for Fishing Buying Guide

You’re here because you’ve either been staring at a fishing rod wondering why the walleye aren’t biting or you’re ready to up your game and snag that monster fish you've been dreaming of. Either way, you're in the right place!

Maybe you’ve tried every trick in the book, every lure in your tackle box, and yet the walleye remain elusive. Or perhaps you’re just curious about what lures and bait work best for catching these sneaky, toothy fish. Stick with me, because by the end of this post, you'll have a solid understanding of what it takes to hook a walleye and why some lures and bait work better than others.

Let’s dive into the juicy (or should I say, "fishy"?) details on walleye lures and walleye bait that will transform your fishing trips from "just sitting by the water" to "look at the size of that thing!"

Why Good Walleye Lures and Bait Matter?

Choosing the right walleye lure or bait isn’t just a matter of luck. It’s science, technique, and maybe a sprinkle of fishy magic. Walleye are known for being a little picky and a lot unpredictable. Sometimes they bite on anything shiny; other times, it’s like they’re avoiding you on purpose.

The key to successful walleye fishing is finding the right lure or bait to match the conditions: water temperature, depth, time of day, and even the mood of the fish. Yes, fish have moods. Didn’t think fishing could get this deep, did you?

Why Catching A Walleye Is So Tricky?

Walleye have fantastic eyesight, but they prefer low-light conditions. This means they often feed at dawn, dusk, or on cloudy days. They can see better in murky water than most fish, making lure choice extra important. If your lure looks unnatural, the walleye will give it a hard pass.

Plus, they have sharp teeth and a cautious demeanor, so they're not going to bite just any old bait you toss into the water. You need to make them think, “Wow, that’s one tasty snack,” or they won’t even consider it. So how do you do that? Glad you asked.

What Are The Best Lures and Bait for Walleye Fishing?

There are countless types of walleye lures and bait out there, but which ones actually work? Before we get into the specifics, here’s something surprising: A recent study found that 67% of anglers who use live bait catch more walleye than those who stick to artificial lures. Crazy, right? But don't pack away your tackle box just yet—artificial lures have their advantages, too. Let’s break it down.

1. Crankbaits: Your Go-To Artificial Lure

Did you know that crankbaits are a favorite among walleye anglers. Why? Because they mimic the swimming action of small fish, which is irresistible to walleye. These lures come in various shapes, sizes, and colors. The trick is to choose a crankbait that matches the fish the walleye are naturally feeding on. If you’re fishing in clear water, opt for a natural-looking crankbait. In murkier water, bright colors like orange or chartreuse can grab their attention.

Pro Tip:

Use a deep-diving crankbait when fishing in deeper water. You want your lure to be right in front of the walleye’s nose, and deep-diving crankbaits can get down to the right level quickly.

2. Jigs: The Old But Reliable

I would say igs are another popular choice. They’re versatile, simple, and, most importantly, effective. Whether tipped with live bait or used alone, jigs can catch walleye in almost any condition. Use a brightly colored jig when fishing in murky waters, or go subtle when the water’s clear.

Fun Fact:

The jig is the most used walleye lure by pro anglers. They might look basic, but don’t underestimate their power.

3. Spinnerbaits: Flashy and Fun

No doubt that spinnerbaits might just be the flashiest lures in your tackle box. Their rotating blades catch the light, making them especially effective in low-visibility water. Spinnerbaits can be used on their own or paired with a soft plastic body to give them more action.

Hot Tip:

Fish spinnerbaits at a slow pace. Walleye like to stalk their prey before making their move, so a slower retrieve mimics a vulnerable fish.

Now that we've covered the top artificial lures, let’s switch gears and talk about live bait. If you really want to up your walleye fishing game, don’t ignore these wriggly wonders.

Using Live Bait for Walleye Fishing

Some anglers swear by artificial lures, while others wouldn’t dream of fishing for walleye without live bait. The truth is, both work, but live bait has an undeniable appeal. Walleye are natural predators, so they’re drawn to the real deal—live, squirming, tasty-looking bait. Let’s look at the most effective live bait options for walleye.

1. Minnows: Classic Choice

Anglers say minnows are probably the most popular live bait for walleye. Why? Because walleye love to eat smaller fish. Hook a minnow through the back or lips and let it swim naturally. When that walleye sees a struggling minnow, it's game over.

2. Leeches: Underrated Bait

I know that leeches might not be your favorite critter, but walleye find them irresistible. Hook them up and drag them slowly along the bottom of the lake. Leeches tend to wiggle in a way that’s hard for walleye to ignore. Bonus: They work great in warmer water, especially in late spring and summer.

3. Nightcrawlers: Dependable All-Rounder

Nightcrawlers are another bait that can trigger bites when nothing else seems to work. Walleye are bottom feeders, so dragging a juicy worm along the lakebed can be very effective. Use them with a slip sinker rig for best results.

How to Find the Best Walleye Lures and Bait to Buy?

So now you know the best options for lures and bait, but where do you find them? The answer is simple—online. But before you start clicking, here’s a step-by-step guide to finding the best walleye lures and bait online.

Step 1: Do Your Research

Before buying, read product reviews and recommendations. Check out online fishing forums, watch YouTube videos, and see what other anglers are using.

Step 2: Check for Deals

Some of the best fishing gear comes with a hefty price tag, but you can often find deals and discounts. Sign up for newsletters from fishing supply stores or follow them on social media for exclusive offers.

Step 3: Buy from Reputable Sellers

Always buy from a trusted seller of walleye lures or well-known brands. Cheap knock-offs might look good online but can fall apart the minute they hit the water.

Step 4: Do Some Experiment

What works for one walleye angler might not work for another. Sometimes, you need to try different lures and bait combinations before you find the perfect one. Don’t be afraid to experiment!

What’s the best time of year to fish for walleye?

Answer: Spring and fall are generally the best seasons for walleye fishing. During these times, the fish are more active and more likely to bite.

Can I use the same lures for walleye in all water types?

Answer: Not really. You need to consider water clarity, depth, and light conditions. In clear water, go for natural colors. In murky water, bright, flashy lures work better.

Is live bait better than artificial lures?

Answer: It depends on the situation. Live bait works wonders when walleye are feeling sluggish, but artificial lures can trigger bites in more aggressive fish.

How deep should I fish for walleye?

Answer: Walleye are usually found at depths between 10 to 30 feet. But this can vary depending on the time of day and water temperature.

Summary: Reel in Some Big Walleyes with Lures and Bait

Walleye fishing can be a challenge, but with the right walleye lures and walleye bait, you’ll increase your chances of success. Crankbaits, jigs, and spinnerbaits are reliable lure options, while live bait like minnows, leeches, and nightcrawlers can be irresistible to walleye. Remember, matching your bait or lure to the fishing conditions is crucial.

Ready to land the walleye of a lifetime? What’s your favorite lure or bait for catching these fish? Drop a comment below and share your tips! Let’s keep the conversation going.