How To Catch Walleye From Shore At Night

How to Catch Walleye from Shore at Night

Walleye fishing at night from the shore can be incredibly rewarding, offering a unique and exciting angling experience. The darkness brings a different kind of challenge and often results in bigger catches. This guide will equip you with the knowledge and techniques to successfully target these elusive fish under the cover of darkness.

Understanding Nighttime Walleye Behavior

Understanding walleye behavior at night is key to your success. Unlike during the day when they often hide in deeper waters, at night walleye move shallower to feed, drawn to the abundance of baitfish attracted to the shore. This makes shore fishing particularly effective.

Key Factors Affecting Nighttime Walleye Activity:

• Moon Phase: A full moon provides ample light, making walleye less active. New moon nights generally offer better fishing.
• Water Temperature: Cooler water temperatures generally mean more active walleye.
• Weather Conditions: Calm, clear nights are ideal. Wind can affect the baitfish and walleye movement.
• Baitfish Activity: If the baitfish aren't active, the walleye won't be either. Listen for signs of baitfish activity such as splashing.

Essential Gear for Nighttime Shore Fishing

Proper equipment is crucial for successful night fishing. Here's a checklist:

Must-Have Items:

• Powerful Headlamp: A strong, hands-free headlamp is a necessity for navigating the darkness and handling your tackle. Red light is preferable as it doesn't disrupt walleye's night vision as much as white light.
• Sturdy Fishing Rod: Choose a medium-heavy power rod with a sensitive tip for detecting subtle bites.
• Reliable Reel: A spinning reel is ideal, offering smooth operation and good casting distance. Ensure it's properly spooled with strong line.
• Strong Line: Use braided line (8-12 lb test) for its sensitivity and strength.
• Appropriate Lures: Select lures that are visible in low light conditions. Consider bright colors such as chartreuse, white, or glow-in-the-dark options. Jigs, crankbaits, and spinnerbaits are excellent choices.
• Tackle Box: Organize your lures, hooks, weights, and other essentials neatly.
• Waders (Optional but Recommended): Waders will keep you dry and warm, and also allow you to cover more ground.
• Safety Gear: Always prioritize safety. Wear a life jacket, especially if fishing near water's edge.

Nighttime Walleye Fishing Techniques from Shore

Successful night fishing requires patience and employing effective techniques:

Effective Strategies:

• Casting Technique: Make long casts to cover more water. Experiment with different retrieval speeds to determine what works best.
• Lure Selection: Try various lures and colors to find what's attracting walleye on a particular night. Observe the baitfish activity to determine what type of lure to use.
• Location Selection: Focus on areas with structure like drop-offs, points, or weed beds.
• Patience is Key: Walleye can be finicky, particularly at night. Stay persistent and keep experimenting with your techniques.
• Scent Enhancers: Consider using scent additives on your lures to increase your chances of attracting the walleye.

Safety First!

Night fishing poses unique safety risks. Here’s how to stay safe:

• Tell someone your plans: Let someone know where you're going, when you expect to be back, and your planned fishing location.
• Bring a buddy: Fishing with a friend increases safety and provides added assistance.
• Be aware of your surroundings: Pay attention to your footing, and avoid areas with uneven terrain.
• Check weather conditions: Monitor weather forecasts before and during your fishing trip and be prepared for changing conditions.

By following these tips and techniques, you’ll significantly increase your chances of catching walleye from shore at night. Remember, patience and persistence are key to success in this exciting form of fishing. Enjoy the thrill of the hunt!