Walleye are a popular sport fish found in North America, and ice fishing is a great way to catch them during the winter months. Using the best walleye ice fishing lures can help you increase your chances of success. There are many different types of lures that can be used for ice fishing, but some of the most effective include:
- Jigs
- Spoons
- Rattlin’ lures
- Lipless crankbaits
When choosing a lure, it is important to consider the depth of the water you are fishing in, the type of cover present, and the size of the walleye you are targeting. It is also important to experiment with different colors and retrieves to see what works best on the day you are fishing.
In conclusion, using the best walleye ice fishing lures can help you catch more fish. There are many different types of lures that can be used, so it is important to experiment to find what works best for you. With a little practice, you will be able to catch walleye through the ice like a pro.
Best Walleye Ice Fishing Lures
Ice fishing for walleye can be a rewarding experience, and using the right lures can make all the difference. Here are 11 key aspects to consider when choosing the best walleye ice fishing lures:
- Size: Walleye lures typically range in size from 1/8 ounce to 1/2 ounce.
- Color: Bright colors, such as red, orange, and yellow, are often effective in attracting walleye.
- Action: Walleye lures should have a realistic action that mimics the movement of baitfish.
- Depth: Consider the depth of the water you are fishing in when choosing a lure.
- Type: There are many different types of walleye lures available, including jigs, spoons, and crankbaits.
- Price: Walleye lures can range in price from a few dollars to several hundred dollars.
- Brand: There are many different brands of walleye lures available, so do some research to find one that is reputable.
- Reviews: Read reviews of walleye lures before you buy them to see what other anglers have to say about them.
- Warranty: Some walleye lures come with a warranty, which can give you peace of mind in case the lure breaks.
- Availability: Make sure the walleye lure you want is available in the size, color, and type you need.
- Personal preference: Ultimately, the best walleye ice fishing lure is the one that you have confidence in and that works well for you.
By considering these key aspects, you can choose the best walleye ice fishing lures for your needs. With a little practice, you’ll be able to catch walleye through the ice like a pro!
Size
The size of a walleye lure is an important factor to consider when choosing the best walleye ice fishing lures. Walleye lures typically range in size from 1/8 ounce to 1/2 ounce, with 1/4 ounce being the most common size. The size of the lure will depend on the size of the walleye you are targeting, the depth of the water you are fishing in, and the type of lure you are using.
Smaller lures are generally more effective for smaller walleye, while larger lures are more effective for larger walleye. The depth of the water will also affect the size of the lure you choose. If you are fishing in shallow water, you will want to use a smaller lure so that it stays close to the bottom. If you are fishing in deep water, you can use a larger lure that will sink deeper.
The type of lure you are using will also affect the size of the lure you choose. Jigs are typically smaller than spoons and crankbaits, so they are a good choice for fishing in shallow water or for targeting smaller walleye. Spoons and crankbaits are larger than jigs, so they are a good choice for fishing in deeper water or for targeting larger walleye.
By considering the size of the walleye you are targeting, the depth of the water you are fishing in, and the type of lure you are using, you can choose the best walleye ice fishing lures for your needs.
Color
When choosing the best walleye ice fishing lures, it’s important to consider the color of the lure. Bright colors, such as red, orange, and yellow, are often effective in attracting walleye. This is because these colors are visible in low-light conditions and can mimic the colors of baitfish that walleye prey on.
- Visual Attraction: Bright colors stand out in the water and can attract walleye from a distance, especially in murky or low-light conditions.
- Mimicking Baitfish: Many baitfish that walleye feed on have bright coloration, such as red fins or yellow stripes. Using lures that mimic these colors can increase your chances of catching walleye.
- Contrast: Bright colors can create a contrast against the snow and ice, making them more visible to walleye.
- Water Clarity: The clarity of the water you are fishing in can also affect the effectiveness of lure color. In clear water, natural colors may be more effective, while in stained or murky water, brighter colors may be better.
By understanding the connection between color and walleye attraction, you can choose the best walleye ice fishing lures to increase your chances of success.
Action
When choosing the best walleye ice fishing lures, it’s important to consider the action of the lure. Walleye lures should have a realistic action that mimics the movement of baitfish. This is because walleye are predators that are attracted to lures that look and move like their prey.
There are many different types of walleye lures with different actions. Some lures have a tight, wobbling action, while others have a wide, sweeping action. Some lures even have a combination of actions. The best way to choose the right action for your lure is to experiment and see what works best on the day you are fishing.
One of the most important things to consider when choosing the action of your lure is the depth of the water you are fishing in. If you are fishing in shallow water, you will want to use a lure with a tight, wobbling action. This type of action will keep your lure close to the bottom, where walleye are more likely to be feeding.
If you are fishing in deep water, you can use a lure with a wider, sweeping action. This type of action will allow your lure to sink deeper into the water column, where walleye are more likely to be suspended.
By understanding the connection between action and walleye attraction, you can choose the best walleye ice fishing lures to increase your chances of success.
Depth
When choosing the best walleye ice fishing lures, it’s important to consider the depth of the water you are fishing in. Walleye are a bottom-dwelling fish, so they are more likely to be found near the bottom of the water column. However, they will also move up in the water column to feed on suspended baitfish.
- Shallow Water: In shallow water (less than 10 feet deep), you will want to use a lure that stays close to the bottom. This could be a jig, a spoon, or a small crankbait.
- Deep Water: In deep water (over 10 feet deep), you can use a lure that sinks deeper into the water column. This could be a jigging spoon, a large crankbait, or a live bait rig.
- Suspended Fish: If you are fishing in deep water and you believe that the walleye are suspended in the water column, you can use a suspending jerkbait or a lipless crankbait.
- Experimentation: The best way to determine the best depth for your lure is to experiment. Try fishing at different depths until you find the depth where you are getting the most bites.
By considering the depth of the water you are fishing in, you can choose the best walleye ice fishing lures to increase your chances of success.
Type
Choosing the right type of walleye lure can have a significant impact on your success. There are three main types of walleye lures: jigs, spoons, and crankbaits. Each type of lure has its own unique advantages and disadvantages.
- Jigs are the most versatile type of walleye lure. They can be fished at any depth and can be used to imitate a variety of baitfish. Jigs are also relatively inexpensive, making them a good choice for budget-minded anglers.
- Spoons are another popular type of walleye lure. Spoons are typically fished by casting them out and then retrieving them with a steady retrieve. Spoons are good at imitating the movements of fleeing baitfish, which can trigger strikes from walleye.
- Crankbaits are a type of diving lure that can be fished at a variety of depths. Crankbaits have a wide, sweeping action that can attract walleye from a distance. Crankbaits are also good at imitating the movements of injured baitfish, which can trigger strikes from walleye.
The best type of walleye lure for you will depend on the specific conditions you are fishing in. If you are fishing in shallow water, a jig or spoon is a good choice. If you are fishing in deep water, a crankbait is a good choice. And if you are fishing in a variety of conditions, a jig is a good all-around choice.
Price
When it comes to choosing the best walleye ice fishing lures, price is an important factor to consider. Walleye lures can range in price from a few dollars to several hundred dollars, so it is important to set a budget before you start shopping.
- Quality: The price of a walleye lure is often indicative of its quality. More expensive lures are typically made from higher-quality materials and components, and they are more likely to be durable and effective.
- Brand: The brand of a walleye lure can also affect its price. Lures from well-known brands are often more expensive than lures from lesser-known brands. However, this does not necessarily mean that they are better quality.
- Features: The features of a walleye lure can also affect its price. Lures with more features, such as multiple hooks or realistic paint jobs, are often more expensive than lures with fewer features.
- Availability: The availability of a walleye lure can also affect its price. Lures that are in high demand are often more expensive than lures that are less popular.
Ultimately, the best way to choose the right walleye ice fishing lures for you is to consider your budget and your needs. If you are on a tight budget, there are many affordable lures that will still catch fish. If you are looking for the best possible lures, you may be willing to pay a higher price.
Brand
When it comes to choosing the best walleye ice fishing lures, brand is an important factor to consider. There are many different brands of walleye lures available, each with its own unique strengths and weaknesses. It is important to do some research to find a brand that is reputable and makes high-quality lures.
- Quality: The quality of a walleye lure is often indicative of its brand. Reputable brands are known for using high-quality materials and components, which results in lures that are durable and effective.
- Experience: Reputable brands have often been in business for many years, and they have a wealth of experience in designing and manufacturing walleye lures. This experience gives them a deep understanding of what works and what doesn’t, and it allows them to produce lures that are consistently effective.
- Customer service: Reputable brands are also known for their excellent customer service. They are always willing to answer questions and help customers choose the right lures for their needs. They also stand behind their products and offer warranties in case of any defects.
By choosing a reputable brand, you can be sure that you are getting high-quality walleye lures that will help you catch more fish. Some of the most reputable brands of walleye lures include Rapala, Berkley, and Lindy.
Reviews
When choosing the best walleye ice fishing lures, it’s important to read reviews from other anglers. This can give you valuable insights into the effectiveness of different lures, as well as their strengths and weaknesses. Reviews can also help you identify lures that are well-made and durable, and those that are more likely to break or fail.
There are many different places where you can find reviews of walleye lures. Online retailers, such as Amazon and Tackle Warehouse, often have customer reviews that can be very helpful. You can also find reviews on fishing forums and websites. When reading reviews, it’s important to keep in mind that everyone has different preferences and experiences. What works for one angler may not work for another. However, by reading a variety of reviews, you can get a good overall sense of the quality and effectiveness of a particular lure.
In addition to reading reviews, it’s also a good idea to talk to other anglers in your area. They can often give you valuable advice on which lures are working best in your local waters. By taking the time to read reviews and talk to other anglers, you can increase your chances of choosing the best walleye ice fishing lures for your needs.
Warranty
When choosing the best walleye ice fishing lures, it’s important to consider the warranty. A warranty is a guarantee from the manufacturer that the lure will be free from defects in materials and workmanship for a specified period of time. This can give you peace of mind in case the lure breaks or fails.
There are many benefits to choosing a walleye lure with a warranty. First, it can save you money in the long run. If the lure breaks or fails, you can simply return it to the manufacturer for a replacement or refund. This can save you the cost of buying a new lure.
Second, a warranty can give you peace of mind. Knowing that your lure is backed by a warranty can give you confidence that it will perform well and last for many years to come.
Finally, a warranty can help you make a more informed decision about which lure to buy. When you’re comparing different lures, be sure to consider the warranty. A lure with a longer warranty is more likely to be a quality product that will last for many years to come.
When choosing a walleye ice fishing lure with a warranty, be sure to read the terms and conditions carefully. Some warranties only cover defects in materials and workmanship, while others also cover damage caused by normal use. Be sure to choose a warranty that meets your needs.
Availability
When choosing the best walleye ice fishing lures, it’s important to consider availability. There’s no point in choosing a lure that you can’t find in the size, color, or type you need. This is especially important if you’re fishing in a remote area or during a time when certain lures are hard to come by.
There are a few things you can do to ensure that the walleye lures you want are available. First, check with your local bait and tackle shop. They should be able to tell you what lures are in stock and when they expect to receive new shipments. You can also check online retailers, such as Amazon and Tackle Warehouse. They often have a wider selection of lures than bait and tackle shops, and they can ship lures to your door.
If you’re having trouble finding the lures you want, you can always try making your own. There are many online resources that can teach you how to make your own walleye lures. This can be a fun and rewarding way to get the lures you need.
By taking the time to ensure that the walleye lures you want are available, you can increase your chances of success on the ice.
Personal preference
When it comes to choosing the best walleye ice fishing lures, there is no one-size-fits-all answer. The best lure for you will depend on a number of factors, including the type of water you’re fishing in, the depth of the water, and the size of the walleye you’re targeting. However, one of the most important factors to consider is your own personal preference.
- Confidence: The most important thing is to have confidence in the lure you’re using. If you don’t believe in the lure, you’re less likely to fish it effectively. Confidence comes from experience, so the more you use a particular lure, the more confident you’ll become in its ability to catch fish.
- Effectiveness: Of course, it’s also important to choose a lure that is effective. There are many different types of walleye lures available, so it’s important to do some research to find the ones that have worked well for other anglers. You can also experiment with different lures to see what works best for you.
- Personal experience and style: Ultimately, the best way to choose the best walleye ice fishing lures for you is to experiment and find what works best for you. There is no substitute for experience, so the more time you spend on the ice, the better you’ll become at choosing the right lures.
- Adaptability: It’s important to be adaptable when choosing walleye ice fishing lures. Different lures work better in different situations, so it’s important to have a variety of lures on hand. This way, you can be prepared for anything the fish throw your way.
By considering your own personal preferences, you can choose the best walleye ice fishing lures for your needs. With a little experimentation, you’ll be able to find the lures that help you catch more fish and have more fun on the ice.
FAQs About Best Walleye Ice Fishing Lures
Ice fishing for walleye can be a rewarding experience, and using the right lures can make all the difference. Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about walleye ice fishing lures:
Question 1: What are the best walleye ice fishing lures?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the best lure will vary depending on the specific conditions you are fishing in. However, some of the most popular and effective walleye ice fishing lures include jigs, spoons, and crankbaits.
Question 2: What size lures should I use for walleye ice fishing?
The size of the lure you use will depend on the size of the walleye you are targeting. For smaller walleye, use smaller lures, such as 1/8 ounce jigs or spoons. For larger walleye, use larger lures, such as 1/4 ounce or 1/2 ounce jigs or spoons.
Question 3: What color lures should I use for walleye ice fishing?
Bright colors, such as red, orange, and yellow, are often effective in attracting walleye. This is because these colors are visible in low-light conditions and can mimic the colors of baitfish that walleye prey on.
Question 4: What action should my lure have?
Walleye lures should have a realistic action that mimics the movement of baitfish. This will make your lure more attractive to walleye and increase your chances of catching fish.
Question 5: How deep should I fish my lure?
The depth at which you fish your lure will depend on the depth of the water you are fishing in and the location of the walleye. In general, you should start by fishing your lure near the bottom and then adjust the depth as needed.
Question 6: How can I improve my chances of catching walleye through the ice?
There are a few things you can do to improve your chances of catching walleye through the ice. First, use the right lures and fish them at the right depth.
Second, be patient and persistent. Walleye can be finicky, so don’t get discouraged if you don’t catch fish right away. Keep fishing and you will eventually be rewarded.
Summary: By choosing the right lures and using the right techniques, you can increase your chances of catching walleye through the ice. So get out there and start fishing!
Transition to the next article section:
Now that you know about the best walleye ice fishing lures, it’s time to learn how to use them effectively. In the next section, we’ll discuss the different techniques for ice fishing for walleye, including jigging, spoon fishing, and crankbait fishing.
Tips for Using the Best Walleye Ice Fishing Lures
Ice fishing for walleye can be a rewarding experience, but it’s important to use the right lures and techniques to be successful. Here are a few tips to help you get started:
Tip 1: Use a variety of lures.
No single lure is going to work in every situation. That’s why it’s important to have a variety of lures on hand so that you can match the hatch to the conditions you’re fishing in.
Tip 2: Experiment with different colors and sizes.
Walleye can be finicky eaters, so it’s important to experiment with different colors and sizes of lures to see what they’re most interested in on any given day.
Tip 3: Fish at different depths.
Walleye can be found at a variety of depths, so it’s important to experiment with fishing at different depths to see where they’re holding. A good starting point is to fish near the bottom, but don’t be afraid to try fishing higher in the water column if you’re not getting any bites.
Tip 4: Be patient.
Walleye fishing can be slow at times, so it’s important to be patient and persistent. Keep fishing and you will eventually be rewarded.
Summary: By following these tips, you can increase your chances of success when ice fishing for walleye. So get out there and start fishing!
Transition to the article’s conclusion:
Now that you know how to use the best walleye ice fishing lures, it’s time to put your knowledge to the test. Get out on the ice and start catching fish!
Best Walleye Ice Fishing Lures
In this article, we’ve explored the world of walleye ice fishing lures, from the different types and sizes to the colors and actions that work best. We’ve also discussed the importance of experimenting with different lures and techniques to find what works best for you. Now that you know the basics, it’s time to get out on the ice and start catching fish!
As you continue to learn and experiment, you’ll develop your own unique style and preferences. And that’s what makes ice fishing for walleye so much fun. There’s always something new to learn and discover. So keep experimenting, keep learning, and keep catching fish!
