As an avid fisherman, I’ve spent countless hours out on our lakes and rivers in search of the elusive walleye. These cagey predators have earned their reputation as one of the toughest freshwater fish to consistently catch. However, over time I’ve picked up some techniques that produce results, especially during those times when the bite is tough.
One of my go-to tactics is what we call “bottom bouncing.” On days when the walleye aren’t active near the surface, getting your lure down on the bottom and slowly working it along the structure is a great way to entice strikes. In this blog post, I’ll share the specifics of how to bottom bounce for walleye, including my go-to lures, rigging, and boat control techniques that are guaranteed to put more of these prized fish in the live well. So let’s dive in and learn how to master this effective technique!
What is Bottom Bouncing?
As the name implies, bottom bouncing is a fishing technique where your lure or bait is bounced along the bottom of the lake or river. This method is popular among walleye fishermen because it mimics their natural feeding behavior. Walleye are known to forage on the bottom for their preferred prey, such as crayfish and smaller fish. So by bouncing your lure along the bottom, you’re imitating this natural movement and increasing your chances of getting a strike.
Supplies You Will Need to Bottom Bounce for Walleye
- Quality fishing rod and reel
- Braided or monofilament fishing line
- Bottom bouncer sinkers
- Walleye jigs
- Live bait (such as minnows, leeches, or nightcrawlers)
Step-by-step Guidelines on How to Bottom Bounce for Walleye
Step 1: Rigging Your Line
To set up your bottom bouncing rig, start by attaching a bottom bouncer sinker to the end of your main fishing line. The size of the sinker will vary depending on the depth and current conditions of the water you’re fishing in. As a general rule, use heavier sinkers in deeper water or areas with strong currents.
Next, tie on a 3-4 foot leader line using monofilament or fluorocarbon. This will serve as your main fishing line and should be lighter in weight compared to the mainline. Finally, tie your walleye jig to the end of the leader line.
Step 2: Determining Boat Speed
Boat speed is crucial when bottom bouncing for walleye. Too fast, and your lure will not stay on the bottom long enough to entice a strike. Too slow, and it won’t bounce along the bottom effectively. A good rule of thumb is to start with a slow troll speed (around 1 mph) and gradually increase or decrease as needed based on the depth and current conditions. This may require some trial and error, so be patient and make adjustments as necessary.
Step 3: Finding Structure and Depth
Walleye are structure-oriented fish, so it’s essential to identify areas with underwater structures such as drop-offs, humps, or rock piles. Use a fish finder to locate these structures and determine their depth. Once you find a promising spot, adjust your bottom bouncer sinker weight accordingly to keep your lure bouncing along the bottom. If you’re not getting any bites, try varying the depth until you find where the walleye are actively feeding.
Step 4: Working Your Lure
When your rig is set up and in the water, use a slow lift-and-fall motion with your rod to bounce your lure along the bottom. This movement should be gentle and subtle, mimicking the natural movements of prey.
Varying the speed and length of your lifts can also help trigger strikes from inactive walleye. As you move along the structure, make sure to cover all depths and angles to increase your chances of getting a strike. Make sure to also pay attention to any changes in bottom composition, as walleye often congregate near transitions from sand to rocks or weeds.
Step 5: Pay Attention to Bites
Bottom bouncing for walleye can produce subtle strikes that are easy to miss. Keep an eye on your rod tip for any movements or twitches, as well as your line for any sudden movements or slack. If you notice any of these signs, set the hook quickly and with a firm but gentle pull. Make sure to keep your rod tip low to the water and reel in any slack quickly to avoid losing the fish. This technique can also produce some bigger bites, so be prepared for a fight!
Following these steps should help you master the art of bottom bouncing for walleye. Remember, practice makes perfect, so don’t get discouraged if you don’t have immediate success. Keep experimenting with different rigs, lures, and techniques until you find what works best for your local fishing conditions. Happy fishing!
Additional Tips and Tricks to Bottom Bounce for Walleye
1. Always use a sharp hook and regularly check for any damage or dullness. Walleye have tough mouths, so a sharp hook is crucial to successfully hooking and landing them.
2. Use different colors and sizes of jigs to find out what the walleye are biting on. Some days they may prefer brighter colors, while other days they may be more attracted to natural tones.
3. Consider using a bottom bouncer with rattles or adding a spinner blade in front of your lure for added attraction and vibration.
4. Don’t be afraid to try different techniques, such as dragging your lure along the bottom instead of bouncing it. Walleye can be picky, so switching things up may entice them to strike.
5. When the bottom bounces in rivers, pay attention to the current and adjust your boat speed and sinker weight accordingly. You want your lure to bounce along the bottom without getting swept away by the current.
6. Always be aware of your surroundings and stay safe on the water. Watch out for other boats, rocks, and underwater structures when navigating to avoid accidents.
Following these tips, along with the steps outlined above, will help you become a pro at the bottom bouncing for walleye in no time. So grab your gear and head out to your favorite fishing spot to put this technique into practice! Happy fishing!
Things You Should Consider to Bottom Bounce for Walleye
1. The first thing to consider before trying bottom bouncing for walleye is the type of water you’ll be fishing in. This technique is most effective in lakes and rivers with rocky or sandy bottoms, as these are the preferred habitats of walleye.
2. You should also take into account the weather and water conditions. Bottom bouncing works best in clear, calm waters with minimal wind or waves.
3. It’s essential to have the right equipment for bottom bouncing, including a sturdy fishing rod and reel, quality line, and suitable sinkers and jigs. Investing in good gear will make your experience more enjoyable and increase your chances of success.
4. Don’t underestimate the power of live bait when bottom bouncing for walleye. While artificial lures can be effective, using live bait such as minnows, leeches, or nightcrawlers can significantly increase your chances of getting a strike.
5. Lastly, always make sure to check local fishing regulations and obtain any necessary permits before hitting the water. This will ensure you are following all rules and regulations while enjoying this exciting technique for catching walleye.
Following these considerations will help you have a successful and enjoyable bottom-bouncing experience while respecting the environment and following all guidelines. Happy fishing!
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I Need a Special Type of Boat to Bottom Bounce for Walleye?
No, you can bottom bounce from any type of boat. However, boats with trolling motors and fish finders can make the process easier and more efficient. If you don’t have these features, consider using an anchor to hold your boat in place while the bottom bounces.
Can I Bottom Bounce for Walleye from Shore?
Yes, you can bottom bounce from shore. Look for areas with structure and use a slip sinker rig or Carolina rig to get your lure to the desired depth. Remember to adjust your sinker weight and use a slow, gentle motion to mimic the bottom bouncing technique.
Are There Any Other Fish Species I Can Catch While Bottom Bouncing for Walleye?
Yes, bottom bouncing can also be effective for catching other species such as bass, pike, and trout. However, make sure to check local fishing regulations to ensure you are targeting legal fish species and following all guidelines. Happy fishing!
Is Bottom Bouncing the Only Technique I Can Use for Walleye Fishing?
No, bottom bouncing is just one of many techniques that can be effective for catching walleye. Other popular techniques include trolling, casting and retrieving, and jigging. Experiment with different methods to find what works best for you in different fishing conditions.
Conclusion
Now you know how to bottom bounce for walleye like a pro! Make sure to always follow safety precautions and local fishing regulations, invest in quality gear, and experiment with different techniques to find what works best for you. With patience and practice, you’ll be reeling in plenty of walleye using this effective and fun technique. Happy fishing!