What is the best bait for ice fishing walleye?

Best Bait for Ice Fishing Walleye

When it comes to ice fishing for walleye, selecting the right bait can significantly increase your chances of success. Here are some of the best options:

1. **Live Bait**:
- **Minows**: Small live minnows, especially shiners or fatheads, are a top choice for walleye. They are particularly effective when fished under a tip-up or jigged with a rod.
- **Nightcrawlers**: These can also work well, especially when the walleye are more active. You can use them whole or cut them into smaller pieces to entice bites.

2. **Artificial Lures**:
- **Jigs**: A good jig can be a game-changer. Consider using a 1/8 to 1/4 oz jig head and tip it with a minnow or a piece of nightcrawler. Colors like chartreuse, orange, and glow-in-the-dark can be particularly effective in murky or low-light conditions.
- **Spoons**: Spoons can be great for covering water and attracting walleye. Try using a flutter spoon or a lipless crankbait in gold or silver. These can mimic the movement of baitfish and trigger predatory instincts.

3. **Soft Plastics**:
- **Swimbaits**: Soft plastic swimbaits can mimic the action of a wounded fish. Rig them on a jig head and work them slowly through the water column.
- **Grubs**: Small grubs can be effective, especially in colder water. Use them on a jig head and bounce them off the bottom to attract walleye.

### Tips for Success:
- **Depth**: Walleye are often found near the bottom, so adjust your bait accordingly. Start fishing at around 15-30 feet deep, depending on the time of year and water body.
- **Movement**: Walleye can be finicky, so varying your jigging technique can help. Try a slow lift and drop, or a more aggressive jigging motion to see what triggers bites.
- **Time of Day**: Early morning and late afternoon are typically the best times to catch walleye through the ice.

Remember to check local regulations regarding bait usage, as some areas have restrictions on live bait. Good luck out there, and may your ice fishing adventures be filled with walleye catches!

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Topics covered in this question:

Fishing Tips Bait Ice Fishing Jigs Walleye