There’s nothing quite like the thrill of night fishing for walleye. While most anglers pack it in as the sun sets, those in the know understand that’s exactly when the walleye really start to prowl the shallows in search of their next meal. In this post on how to catch walleye at night, I’ll share some of my top tips for having successful walleye excursions under the cloak of darkness.

With the right equipment, tactics, and locations, you too can experience the rush of reeling in these powerful predators after dusk. We’ll cover everything from ideal lure selections and presentations to effective electronics for finding fish at night. By the time you’ve finished reading, you’ll be itching to get your boat on the water or tackle box packed for an evening adventure.

11 Step-by-step Guidelines on How to Catch Walleye at Night

Step 1: Timing is Key

As mentioned earlier, walleye are most active at night. That’s why it’s essential to time your fishing trips accordingly. The best times for night walleye fishing are during the new moon and full moon phases when there is minimal light pollution from the moon. I recommend checking a lunar calendar before planning your next trip.

Step 2: Get the Right Gear

Having the right equipment is crucial for night fishing success. Invest in a high-quality headlamp, as well as glow sticks and reflective tape to help you see an array of colors in the dark. Additionally, make sure your fishing line is strong enough to handle large walleye and that you have a reliable reel with smooth drag. But most importantly, have a comfortable and sturdy boat to navigate the water safely in low light. You don’t want to put yourself in a dangerous situation just for the sake of fishing.

Step 3: Dress for Success

When night fishing, dressing appropriately can make all the difference. Be sure to wear warm layers, especially if you’ll be on the water when temperatures drop at night. Also, don’t forget to wear non-slip shoes to prevent slips and falls on a wet boat deck. It’s also a good idea to pack an extra change of clothes in case you get wet while landing a fish. But most importantly, make sure to wear a lifejacket at all times for safety.

Step 4: Bring the Right Lures

Walleye have excellent night vision and are drawn to anything that glows or emits light. This makes glow-in-the-dark lures and jigs highly effective for catching walleye at night. Experiment with different colors and sizes to find what works best in your local waters. Another tactic is using lures that vibrate or make noise, as walleye have a keen sense of hearing. You can also try using live bait such as minnows or leeches.

Step 5: Use Noisy Reels

Speaking of sounds, choosing a reel with a baitcasting mechanism can help attract walleye. These reels emit clicking noises that mimic the sound of baitfish, which can entice walleye to strike. Additionally, using a reel with a slow retrieve ratio can help keep your lure in front of the walleye longer, increasing your chances of a bite. You can also attach an electronic fish caller to your line for added noise and vibration.

Step 6: Slow Down Your Presentation

Walleyes are known for their sluggish movements at night, so it’s essential to slow down your presentation. This means using a slower trolling speed or casting and retrieving at a slower pace than you would during the day. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different retrieval speeds until you find what works for the conditions and walleye activity level. If using live bait, make sure to use a slow and steady retrieve.

Step 7: Focus on Structure

Walleye are opportunistic predators, so they’ll often lurk near structures such as rocky shorelines, weed beds, and drop-offs. These areas provide cover for baitfish and other food sources, making them prime locations for catching walleye at night. Use a fish finder to locate these structures or look for them during the day so you can return to them later in the evening.

Step 8: Fish Shallow Water

While walleye are known for their deep-water dwellings, they often move into shallower waters at night in search of food. This is especially true during the spawning season when they’ll venture into water as shallow as six feet. Keep this in mind when choosing your fishing location and adjust your presentation accordingly.

Step 9: Pay Attention to Weather Conditions

Just like with any type of fishing, weather conditions can play a significant role in walleye activity and success. Pay attention to changes in barometric pressure, wind speed and direction, and moon phase, as these can all impact walleye behavior. Generally, mild temperatures with low winds and light rain are the most ideal for night walleye fishing.

Step 10: Be Patient and Persistent

Fishing is a game of patience, and night fishing for walleye is no exception. It can take time to locate the right spot and to get the presentation just right. Don’t give up if you don’t get a bite right away.

With persistence, you’ll eventually find success. But remember to always prioritize safety and never take unnecessary risks in the pursuit of fish. You can always try again on another night. It’s also a good idea to bring a buddy along for added safety and company.

Step 11: Stay Safe

Last but not least, safety should always be the top priority when fishing at night. Make sure to have a fully charged phone and a flashlight handy in case of emergencies. Inform someone of your plans and location before heading out, and always wear a lifejacket while on the water. And most importantly, trust your instincts and never take any unnecessary risks.

With these step-by-step guidelines on how to catch walleye at night, you now have the knowledge and tools to catch walleye at night successfully. Give it a try on your next fishing trip, and experience the thrill of catching these elusive predators in the dark. Happy fishing!

Things to Remember

• Time Your Fishing Trips During New Moon and Full Moon Phases for Minimal Light Pollution
• Invest in a High-quality Headlamp, Glow Sticks, Reflective Tape, and a Sturdy Boat for Night Fishing
• Dress Warmly and Wear Non-slip Shoes, Bring an Extra Change of Clothes, and Always Wear a Lifejacket
• Use Glow-in-the-dark Lures and Jigs, Noisy Reels, and Slow Down Your Presentation for Best Results
• Focus on Structures and Fish Shallow Waters, Especially During the Spawning Season
• Pay Attention to Weather Conditions and Be Patient and Persistent in Your Fishing Efforts
• Prioritize Safety at All Times When Night Fishing.  End Each Trip With a Safe Return Home.  Enjoy the Outdoors While You’re Out There.  Stay Safe and Enjoy!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Night Fishing for Walleye Legal?

A: Yes, as long as you have a valid fishing license and follow all local regulations regarding catch limits and size restrictions. You may also need to obtain a permit for night fishing in certain areas. It’s always best to check with your local Department of Natural Resources before heading out on a night fishing trip.

Q: What Makes Night Fishing for Walleye Different from Daytime Fishing?

A: Night fishing for walleye requires different techniques and gear than daytime fishing. Walleye are more active at night, and their vision is optimized for low light conditions, making them more likely to strike at glowing or vibrating lures. The lack of visibility also requires anglers to slow down their presentation and focus on structures and shallower waters where walleye are more likely to be hunting for food.

Q: Is it Safe to Fish for Walleye Alone at Night?

A: It’s generally not recommended to fish alone at night, especially on a boat. Always inform someone of your plans and location before heading out, and consider bringing a fishing buddy along for added safety. If fishing alone is unavoidable, make sure to have all necessary safety equipment, such as a fully charged phone and flashlight, and always wear a lifejacket while on the water.

Q: Can I Use Artificial Lights While Night Fishing for Walleye?

A: Yes, you can use artificial lights while night fishing for walleye. In fact, many anglers use headlamps or other light sources to help them see and navigate their boat in the dark. However, be cautious not to shine bright lights directly into the water, as this can startle and spook walleye.

Conclusion

In conclusion on how to catch walleye at night, there is no doubt that catching walleye at night can be an exhilarating and rewarding experience for any angler. By following the tips and techniques outlined in this blog post, you are sure to have success on your next night’s fishing adventure.

Remember to choose the right equipment, target areas with cover and structure, use the appropriate bait and adjust your presentation based on conditions. Additionally, always prioritize safety and follow all necessary precautions when fishing at night.

Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, don’t be afraid to experiment and try new strategies to find what works best for you. With persistence, patience, and a little bit of luck, you’ll be reeling in those elusive walleye under the moonlit sky in no time. So what are you waiting for? Grab your gear, head out to your favorite spot on the water, and enjoy the thrill of catching walleye at night! Happy fishing!