Walleye Fishing Lures, Baits, Tackle & Gear used in Wisconsin
Wisconsin offers some of the best walleye fishing in the country, and having the right tackle and gear can make all the difference. Whether you’re fishing the Mississippi River, the Great Lakes, or inland lakes, selecting the proper lures, baits, and tackle is key to a successful catch.
Walleye are known for their elusive nature, making them both a challenging and rewarding target for anglers. Their preference for low-light conditions means that understanding their behavior and habitat is crucial for success. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced angler, having a well-rounded selection of gear can significantly increase your chances of landing a trophy fish. From slow-moving jigs to fast-action crankbaits, the right setup can make all the difference.
In this guide, we’ll cover the essential gear used by Wisconsin anglers to effectively target walleye. You'll find insights on everything from the best hooks and bobbers to specialized artificial lures that can help maximize your success on the water. Also, don't forget to check out Wisconsin Walleyes! for additional tips, local fishing reports, and expert advice.
Photos of Walleye Fishing Lures, Baits, Tackle & Gear
Essential Walleye Fishing Gear
1. Hooks & Bobbers
- Hooks: Use size 2 to 6 hooks for live bait like minnows or leeches.
- Bobbers: Slip bobbers allow precise depth control, helping keep your bait in the strike zone.
2. Jigs & Jig Heads
- Jigs: A staple for walleye fishing, jigs work well with soft plastics or live bait.
- Jig Heads: Choose from round, stand-up, or swimming jig heads to match different conditions.
3. Sinker Weights
- Types: Split shot, egg sinkers, and bottom bouncers help keep your bait at the right depth.
- Usage: Adjust weight depending on current, wind, and water depth.
4. Spoons
- Best for: Vertical jigging and casting, spoons mimic injured baitfish to trigger aggressive strikes.
- Top Choices: Gold, silver, and perch-colored spoons perform best in Wisconsin waters.
5. Soft Baits
- Types: Grubs, shad, paddle tails, and worms are popular choices.
- Best Colors: Chartreuse, white, and glow-in-the-dark work well in various water conditions.
6. Rattle Traps
- Why Use Them? The rattling sound and vibration help attract walleye, especially in murky waters.
- Retrieve Tips: A stop-and-go or steady retrieve often produces the best results.
7. Crankbaits & Stick Baits
- Crankbaits: Effective for trolling or casting, these lures mimic natural prey.
- Stick Baits: Best used in cold water conditions when fish are less aggressive.
8. Spinners & Small Artificial Lures
- Spinners: Combine flash and vibration to entice bites in both clear and stained waters.
- Small Artificial Lures: Miniature swimbaits, twister tails, and finesse plastics are great for finicky walleye.
Fishing Tips for Wisconsin Anglers
- Match the Hatch: Pay attention to local baitfish and insect hatches to select the most effective lures.
- Time of Day Matters: Walleye are most active during early morning, late evening, and overcast days.
- Water Temperature & Depth: Adjust your lure selection based on seasonal water temperatures and fish depth preferences.
Responsible Fishing Practices
Always Remember:
✅ Check Local Fishing Regulations – Follow size and bag limits to support sustainable fishing.
✅ Practice Catch & Release – Consider releasing large breeders to maintain healthy walleye populations.
✅ Don’t Litter – Keep Wisconsin’s waters clean by disposing of trash properly.
Final Thoughts
Walleye fishing in Wisconsin is both challenging and rewarding. By using the right lures, baits, tackle, and gear, you can improve your chances of landing a trophy fish. Remember to always fish responsibly and respect the waters for future generations.
Tight lines and happy fishing!
Always Check Local Fishing Regulations | Practice Catch & Release | Don’t Litter!
[ Also Checkout Types of Wisconsin Fish ]
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