Basic Things to Remember about Rigging and Jigging for Walleye

Basic Things to Remember about Rigging and Jigging for Walleye

Rigging and jigging are two of the primary ways to use your bait and start catching some delicious walleye. If it's your first time to fish for walleye, you'll enjoy greater productivity rates once you understand the basics of the two.

Basic Things to Remember about Rigging for Walleye
To rig live bait for walleye, you'll have to use a slip sinker. This is connected to the hook you need to pierce your live bait. With rigged bait, you only have to drop it in the water and allow the bait to do its work. The constant movement of your live bait will set out vibrations that will induce the walleye into taking the bait; hook, line, and sinker.

Rigging is a technique more effective in a specific fishing area. It isn't ideal if you wish to cover the maximum possible area because of how it works. In rigging, you and your live bait stay put in one area. You wait for the walleye to come after you and not the other way around. Walleye traveling for better water temperatures are more prone to taking the bait so you'll have more chances of catching them during the day. At night, walleye are too busy feeding from their long-time preferred habitats to notice your bait.

A spinning rig is one of the most popular choices for catching walleye. When you're using a spinning rig, you should remember to keep your rig vertical while you keep your boat stationary. If you sense that a walleye has taken the bait have your companion move your boat on top of your catch as you begin pulling the fish to the surface.

When shopping for rigs, consider the leader length you'll use because you'll want more length to handle the finickier walleye. Colors rarely matter.

Basic Things to Remember about Jigging for Walleye
With rigging, it is up to the bait to make the necessary action to catch the eye of walleye in this instance. In jigging, however, an angler is used and controlled by the individual to produce the necessary bait movement and action. Because of the presence and function of anglers, artificial bait may be used with jigging. The main advantages of artificial jigs over real ones are the added scent and better hook strength.

Another difference between jigging and rigging is the timing. When you feel a bite, you reel in the rigged bait slowly but with jigged baits, you set your hook right away.

Here are the several types of jigging techniques you can use.

Trolling Jigs - Jig trolling techniques may work where spinner rigs and crank baits have failed. Generally, however, jig trolling is used for walleyes not traveling in schools and swimming in medium depths.

To make trolling more successful, try to bounce your jig at the bottom as your boat moves forward. Long-shank hooks are a preferable match with trolling jigs because they can keep your baits vertical.

Vertical Jigs - Whether you're fishing in lakes or rivers, as long as the depths are eight feet or more, vertical jigs may be used effectively. Vertical jigs work better in rivers, of course, but you can increase their effectiveness by looking for the deeper areas of lakes.

To keep your bait vertical, look for long-shank hooks again as well as round heads. With a long-shank hook, you get a better grip on your walleye once you start reeling it in unlike with a shorter hook. Using light-wire together with vertical jigs also makes a better combination because they are less vulnerable to snagging.

Consider the jig weight when using vertical jigs for fishing. This is especially true if you're fishing in deeper waters and stronger currents. With vertical jigging, it's better to have someone with you so you can fully concentrate on manipulating your fishing rod.

Pitching Jigs - Pitching jigs are more effective if you're fishing for walleyes in shallower depths. Most cases, walleyes are hiding amidst structures and break lines in shallow depths. Just remember that walleye, especially older ones, don't like sunlight so they're sure to look for shade. When pitching jigged bait, you need to use short-shank hooks and keep bait horizontal.

In the end, jigging and rigging have their respective shares of pros and cons so consider trying them out to see which one works better for you.

Need a Boat to Fish for Walleye? Use This

Need a Boat to Fish for Walleye? Use This Practical Guide

Fishing for walleye is fun and challenging because this isn't an easy fish to catch. Anglers also prefer this fish because of its beauty and size. Although many anglers have had success in fishing for walleye from the banks of lakes or rivers, the need to use a boat often crops up in the pursuit of this elusive fish.

Fishing for walleye from a boat
Using a boat to fish for walleye will depend on where the fish is found during a particular fishing trip. Practically speaking, any spot on a lake or river that can't be reached if you're standing on the shore is only accessible if you use a boat. A boat is also a practical means with which to follow the walleye.

And really, who hasn't found fishing in a boat more comfortable? You're dry, you're seated comfortably and you can even doze off as you wait for the elusive walleye. Imagine doing that while fishing from the shore or standing waist deep in water.

What type of boat do you need?
When it comes to using a fishing boat, you have dozens of choices. However, not every one is a perfect fit. Consider some of these facts before honing in on your fishing boat:

Are you fishing alone?
If you're the type of angler who likes to enjoy catching fish by your lonesome, a small boat should be enough to hold you and your equipment comfortably. However, if you're fishing with a buddy or several other anglers, find a boat that you all can fit into, with room to move and store your gear.

Your location
Will you be on a river or lake? Larger bodies of water such as lakes and reservoirs make it impractical to choose a boat without a motor. Or if it does have one, it should be capable of higher speeds to let you move from one area to another quickly and conveniently. A boat with an electric trolling motor, for example, may not be very effective on larger bodies of water.

Another consideration is the drift factor. A lake may seem serene and motionless but there are unseen currents that will move the boat in a certain direction. Of course, there's also the wind factor. Consider if the boat will drift faster from the bow or the stern and find out how you will have to compensate in case of an uneven drift.

Your equipment
The barest essentials when it comes to walleye fishing using a boat include your fishing gear and nothing else. These days, however, more anglers prefer to bring in more equipment, such as coolers with ice for storage, cleaning equipment, even cameras.

If you will be loading your boat with these stuff and more, make sure there's enough room in the boat for you to move.

Weather
If you'll be fishing on a windy day, will the boat be able to handle it? On overcast days when fishing for walleye is nearly effortless, does your boat provide you and your equipment with enough protection in case of a downpour?

Your dream fishing boat
Now that you have an idea of what you need from a boat to enjoy fishing for walleye, it's time to choose your boat. First of course, is the size and material. Smaller boats that can hold two to three people are about 14' to 20' long. Longer ones are about 22' long. These are made of aluminum.

Choose whether you prefer a V-bottom or a flat bottom boat. V-bottoms, particularly those with deep Vs, are better for use in deeper and larger bodies of water because they are more stable against heavy waves. Regular Vs are best used for smaller lakes.

Manufacturers and dealers also offer different layouts and styles, so simply choose one that will offer the best in terms of comfort and functionality.

Fiberglass boats are also excellent units, often built to provide speed and durability. These boats are usually bigger, ranging from 15' to about 30'. If you fish frequently for walleye in rougher waters, try a center console boat. When you're far from shore, you will have to rely on this boat for endurance and stability. It is also equipped with onboard gear you'll find useful offshore.

If you like practicality and function, folding and inflatable boats are ideal. These boats are perfect if you're mobile or if you prefer to use your own boat for fly-ins. They are easy to store and may be used both for freshwater and saltwater fishing. If you prefer more in terms of performance, bigger boats make excellent choices for sports fishing.

Want more comfort and company? Choose cruisers or walk-around boats that can hold you, your friends or family and your equipment. In terms of creature comforts, these boats are well equipped, perfect if you want to spend a full day (or more) onboard to fish for walleye.

Getting Ready for the Eye-Opening Walleye Season Opener

Walleye season is just about to open and the first day is always an eye-opening experience for all. You need to start preparing in order to enjoy maximum fishing pleasure. Although you do this every year, you still end up forgetting one or two essentials. For a perfect start this year, use the following tips as a checklist of things to do and bring.

Checking Your Fishing Gear and Equipment for the Walleye Season

Fishing License - Don't wait for trouble to come knocking at your door. Apply early, submit your requirements promptly, and keep your fishing license together with the rest of your fishing gear.

Tackle Box - You can't catch walleye without bait so make sure your tackle box contains all the necessary equipment: live and plastic bait, jigs and rigs, hooks, slip bobbers, split shots, hooks, plugs, crank baits, and crawler harnesses. Keep in mind that the quantity of bait and other tackling essentials you'll bring with you will greatly depend on when and where you'll be fishing.

Fishing Rods, Reels, and Lines - For fishing novices, keep in mind that this recreational activity is just like playing golf or tennis. There are certain rods, reels, and lines that work better in certain situations.

Fishing Nets - Consider taking with you several types and sizes of fishing nets to meet all possible fishing needs you'll encounter on the opening day of walleye season.

Troubleshooting Kit - Take a pair of pliers with you: this is the ultimate fishing tool that will help you solve lots of small and big troubles while you're fishing for walleye. Make sure you also have a filet knife, side planers, fish chains, nail clippers, forceps, and hook sharpeners included in your troubleshooting kit.

Locating Tools - To help you search for more walleye, make sure you've got with you fish markers, a portable fish finder, compass, head lamps, fish scale, fishing maps, and tape measure.

Electronic Equipment - Have a camera with you at all times to keep photographic evidence and remembrances of your catches. Make sure you've got an extra electric motor ready for emergency needs. If possible, have GPS and batteries as well.

Comfort - To be able to fish more comfortably and successfully, make sure you're wearing fishing boots and you've got life jackets and rain gear ready in cases of emergency. A pair of fishing gloves, a bottle of mosquito repellent (one that won't be easily washed off by water, preferably), sunscreen and sunglasses, all-purpose rags, and a small bucket for your dumping needs. Pillows and sleeping bags are also necessary if you're staying the whole day. There'll be times when you'll need to take a short nap while waiting for some walleye to take the bait.

Consider any special health conditions you may have. If you are wearing contact lenses, be sure to take with you all your supplies.

Consider bringing means to entertain yourself especially if you're fishing on your own. Take with you a couple of books, a portable DVD or music player, or playing cards. Other essentials you could bring are garbage bags, a knife, axe, and flashlight.

Food - If it's going to be a long trip, decide if you wish to go to the bank once in a while to eat. If not that, check if you've got all your cooking supplies. Have your coolers ready, a bottle opener, coffee maker, ice, eating utensils, plates and glasses, and sealable bags.

Boat - Have a professional give your boat a thorough checkup at least a month before the opening of walleye season to ascertain if it's ready to face another fun but challenging voyage. Make sure you've got boat seats, anchors, and an adequate supplies of oil or gas. Take a repair kit on board and make sure you know the basic troubleshooting solutions for common boating problems.

If you're fishing in a new area, make sure your boat is capable of meeting the expected current strength, depth, and weather conditions.

Medical Kit - Besides the usual essentials of a basic medical kit, take with you as well a couple of painkillers, moist towelettes, tissue paper, and allergy medicine since you'll be spending a lot of time outdoors.

General Concerns - Of course, preparing for the opening of walleye season isn't limited to checking your gear and equipment. Familiarize yourself with the rules and requirements as well.

Tips for Using Ice Fishing Jigs

Ice fishing jigs are undoubtedly one of the most important lures in a tackle box, and understanding the correct method of jigging for freshwater fish in lakes throughout the north is critical in catching the big fish. Incorrectly jigging will result in few if any bites, even if fish are present in the area.

One of the most important things to remember about using an ice fishing jig is that success will rely on the action of the lure, the bait used on the jig as well as action of the jig to attract the fish. Bait is an optional choice, but most ice fishermen use some kind of bait, a maggot, larva, pre-scented plastic bait or even a bit of fresh or frozen minnow if live is not available.

The next step is to find the jig action that seems to attract the fish. Ice fishing jigs are designed to mimic the action of a bait fishing moving up and down in the water, at about the level that fish are feeding. Depth finders and a fish locator can be ideal in helping to set the jig at the correct distance off the bottom. The jig should then be bounced about one to two feet off the bottom, with a lag of twenty to thirty seconds between jigs. The motion can be more or less pronounced and it is important to keep varying the ice fishing jig motion until you find the action that starts the fish feeding.

The jig can also be moved from side to side in a method called thrumming. To move the jig in a horizontal method rapidly move the end or the rod or the tip of the rod back and forth rapidly. By the end of the line this will result in a one to three inch sideways movement as well as an up and down bobbing motion. Ice fishing jigs that work well in this presentation are the hard bodied or contoured type jigs with a baited hook presentation.

Bobbers can be very effective for depth control of jigs. Once you have had a nibble or have landed a fish at one depth, try jigging one or two feet on either side of the jig to allow for maximum area coverage. Be sure to stay within the allowed number of lines for the body of water that you are fishing, and if you are using tip-ups follow the distance regulations. Most fishing regulations require that anglers must have a clear line of vision with all tip-ups in the water.

Maine Ice Fishing

There are many different sports and popular winter activities in Maine, ice fishing being one of the top on most angler's lists. Maine ice fishing offers a variety of species of fish as well as an opportunity to fish many of the lakes and waterways that are not always accessible to anglers in the summer months. For example, deep water fishing in lakes such as in Lake Cumberland, Knox or Lincoln requires a boat in summer months, but in winter months all it requires is a sled an a warm pair of boots.

There are several different tournaments offered in Maine ice fishing events, and these are popular with both experienced anglers and those new to this winter sport. Many of the tournaments including those in the Jackman and Moose River Regions of the state as well as the well known Sebago fishing derby are highlights of the winter Maine ice fishing season.

The ice fishing tournament also includes events such as:

Nordic walking a new way to safely exercise in colder temperatures. This is a great activity for everyone.

Polar ice dip people actually put on swimming suits and go for a dip in the lake, definitely only for the brave.

Kids fishing tourney children compete in different age categories to see who can catch the biggest fish, the longest fish and just enjoy the sport.

Snowshoe race everyone can take the challenge and strap on some snowshoes and compete in a fun and interesting race.

Winterfest fun activities, food and entertainment for tournament participants and guests.

The Sebago derby is typical to other Maine ice fishing tournaments. Entrance is by pre-registration and a flat fee for either individual anglers or a rate for families. Participants can fish in specific areas during designated times. They must have the fish into the weigh stations by the end of the derby to be counted. There are limits on the number of fish of each species that can be weighed per day with Muskie and Pike having no limit, pickerel having a ten per day limit and togue having a two per day limit. During the derby all participants must follow Maine ice fishing regulations and restrictions as determined by the Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife.

Within the waterways of Maine, ice fishing has become a key sector of the winter economy. There are an extensive number of guides, lodges and winter chalets that provide accommodation and even fishing trips out onto the lakes in the area. Many of the fishing lodges also offer tours and trips for family members that may not be as interested in spending the day on the lake.

Lake Simcoe Ice Fishing

Located in the southern part of the Canadian province of Ontario, Lake Simcoe is the fourth largest lake in the province with a total water area of 725 square kilometers. Lake Simcoe ice fishing is considered to be some of the finest in the area, with opportunities for anglers of every level of experience and age. Lake Simcoe is an easy ninety mile drive from Toronto, and there are numerous winter lodges, hotels and accommodations around the lake itself. Since Lake Simcoe ice fishing is a popular winter pastime, the lake is home to many other winter sports such as snow shoeing, snowmobile racing and riding, cross country skiing and winter hiking and camping.

Lake Simcoe ice fishing species include trout, pike, whitefish, whitefish, ling and walleye. The various types of fish in Lake Simcoe are easily identified by their distinguishing features. To help those interested in Lake Simcoe ice fishing the following tips and strategies will be of assistance:

Pike Northern Pike are very aggressive fish. They have a noticeably sharp shape to their head that makes them unmistakable. Pike also have very sharp, pronounced teeth and are very aggressive both in taking the bait and when they are being landed. Pike tend to be aggressive feeders year round although they do nibble a little bit at bait in the winter months. Pike follow smaller fish around the lake and are often found about 3 to 6 feet under the bottom of the ice surface. Lake Simcoe ice fishing for pike is ideal as these fish are very mobile and rather lone hunters, so the size of the lake makes it ideal for moving with the fish without disturbing other anglers.

Walleye- Lake Simcoe ice fishing strategies for walleye include jigging areas just beyond weeds and ridges of vegetation. Walleye are typically found feeding at times just before dark and just after dawn in the periods of dusk. They will typically bite most actively at minnows and plastic worms with lots of action.

Lake Trout lake trout tend to move throughout the lake quite a bit over the season. In the first part of the winter months the trout tend to feed at about 50-90 foot depths, while the lake trout move deeper further into the year and then into more shallow water closer to the spring thaw. Deeper water lake trout feed during the brightest parts of the day and the trout in more shallow areas of the lake will feed during the hours right after dawn and just before dusk.

Whitefish many people use chumming as a method of keeping whitefish located in one area of Lake Simcoe, ice fishing season more commonly. Chumming includes dropping minnows, chopped meat or rice into the water to keep fish in one area a couple of days before deciding to fish the area. Whitefish stay in schools, so one hit typically means that there are many fish in the area. Once they know that bait is heading down to the deep water, more aggressive and larger whitefish will actually swim up closer to the surface if they are actively feeding. Chopped salted minnows or scented plastics make excellent lures in a feeding school of whitefish.

Lake Simcoe ice fishing has many different ice fishing bait shops, house rentals and tournaments to provide everything that a angler needs for a great ice fishing vacation.