Locating Winter Walleyes

Where does walleye feed in winter time?

First Ice
Early in the season, on most lakes and rivers, you can find walleye on and around typical walleye structure. It will pay to concentrate on long sloping points, rock bars, shallow rocky shoals, sunken reefs and islands, and between-island saddles.



Mid Season

They will remain on the same structures throughout the season, but while walleye continue to feed, their metabolism is at its slowest at this point in the season. As a result, walleyes only eat 1/3 of what they eat at their peak fall period, which in turn means slimmer pickings.

Last Ice
On larger lakes and rivers, walleyes start moving towards the spawning grounds. Again look for classic structure, but closer to the spawning grounds.

Overall
Walleyes feed in low light conditions, and this applies throughout the ice fishing season. Fishing is at its best at sunrise, sunset and on overcast days. Typically the best late fall spots are the best winter spots, the fish move in and stay there through the winter right into early spring.