Land of Nipigon

Land of Nipigon Fishes

Walleye

The largest member of the Perch family, the Walleye get their name from their large golden eyes which point outwards (towards the wall). This results in a unique eye shine in the dark and is directly related to their low-light seeing ability.

Walleye prefer warmer waters, shallower and darker waters due to their light sensitivity. A highly aggressive feeder which are common in the region.

Walleye have been commercially fished in the Nipigon area however this caused a collapse of the fish stocks and Nipigon Bay and Black Bay are closed to Walleye fishing. The Nipigon area still boasts numerous inland Walleye lakes which include Lake Nipigon, the Largest, wholly in, Ontario Lake.

Lifespan: 10-20 Years
Habitat: Inland lakes, rivers, streams. Tinted water with shallow areas with abundant underwater vegetation.

Spawning: Spring (May)
Spawn Habitat: Gravel beds in rivers
Foods: Surface insects, nymphs, aquatic insects, other smaller fish,
World Record: 25lbs
Standard Baits: Jigheads bounced on bottom, tipped with minnows or worms. Live minnows, Spinners.

Where to fish
Most of Lake Superior is closed to Walleye so one must fish inland lakes. Frazer, Elizabeth are the most common walleye fishing lakes around however there are many more just north of Lake Helen.

What to fish
Jig heads tipped with minnow or worms. Artificial tubes and jig heads as well. Bottom bouncers with spinners.

How to fish
Best results in early morning/evening. Find an area of shallow water near a deeper pocket. Bounce jigheads off bottom as you retrieve.