Springtime walleye fishing on the Mississippi River can be a rewarding experience for anglers. As the weather warms up and the water temperatures rise, walleye start to move from their deep wintering holes to shallower areas to feed and spawn. Here are some tips for springtime walleye fishing on the Mississippi River:
- Timing: The timing of the walleye run can vary depending on the weather and water conditions, but generally, the best time to fish for walleye on the Mississippi River is in April and May. Always be ready during the February thaw. This is when many of the dams on the Mississippi River start to open up and be accessible to open water fishing.
- Location: Look for areas with structure, such as rocks, logs, and drop-offs, where walleye can hide and ambush their prey. Focus your fishing efforts on shallow areas near these structures. Near Locks and Dams are a go-to during the springtime spawning period. The flowing current with hard bottom can be a great area to catch a walleye int the 10 lb. category. Pool 4 (Red Wing) is a very popular spot for the spring walleye/sauger run. Here is a Lock and Dam on the Mississippi River that will give you an outlook on what to look for.
- Here you should remind yourself, current can be very strong depending on the water level for that given year. Finding where the current is meeting that slack water can give you the best opportunity. In the early spring, fishing by the deeper holes, rock structures, timber, and even try those shallow flats during prime hours to get your next big bite.
- Bait: The most used technique especially on pool 4 is vertical jigging. Typically using a half ounce jig and a plastic. Using 3/8ths can give you a little better advantage when the water isn't flowing as fast. Using plastics is my favorite way to target walleyes. Typically white or orange/green work really good. Blade baits work very good this time of year as well.
- Techniques: Dropping your lure to the bottom and bringing it up 6 inches to a foot. When you are using a jig and plastic or live-bait, just let it sit there. There is enough current to make your lure move down there so no need in trying to do too much. When fishing a blade bait or lure of that nature that might have rattles, bring it ip 1 to 2 feet with a jigging motion and dropping it back down just 6 inches to a foot off the bottom. By doing this, it activates your rattles or vibration in the water. These typically work when the fish are a bit more active.
Remember to always check local regulations and obtain any necessary licenses before fishing on the Mississippi River or any other body of water. Good luck and happy fishing! #catchreleaserepeat
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