Apr 29 2009
Walleye Season Opener looks to be Promising.
Here in my part of Ontario, the walleye opener looks to be promising. All of the right elements are coming into play. Central Ontario, area 10 for provincial fishing regulations, is shaping up nicely for the season opener. The temperature was just reaching the proper spawning temperature in the river the other day, and this should lead to an active spawn over the next week or so if the temperature holds nicely. The opening day is May 16 this year. Exactly two and a half weeks from now.
Walleye in northern parts of North America spawn actively when water temperatures reach around 40 degrees. Once this happens, they move into their spawning areas and over a couple of nights spawning occurs. Once they spawn, the males hang around the spawning area and continue feeding as the females retreat to a post spawn area and feeding stops for about two weeks while they recover. After about two weeks the larger females begin to feed very actively and this is the time of year that the most record walleye are taken.
Rivers tend to be a good choice for season opener as walleye tend to spawn earlier in rivers than in lakes. Water temperature increases sooner due to warmer spring run off water. By opening weekend this year, the females will be in their post spawn feeding areas and these aren’t too difficult to identify. Walleye tent to congregate post spawn in deeper pools down stream from their spawning area. In rivers they tend to spawn near areas with rocky of gravel bottom’s where the water is moving more quickly. They need highly oxygenated water for spawn to be successful. If you’re not sure about the depths of your fishing area, invest in a fish finder, or just spend your time trolling. Once you locate fish, try drifting past the same location a few times. Walleye tend to congregate in small schools.
As far as bait is concerned, minnows are highly touted as the most effective bait in spring and fall, and night crawlers should be left until later in the season. I happen to enjoy using artificial bates as I am almost as successful for the most part, and there aren’t as many difficulties associated with them. They stay on the hook better, they stay fresh longer, and they don’t waste as easily. Regardless of what bait you use, be sure it’s lively. There is no point in using live bait if it’s half dead. Walleye will bite on a dead minnow if their really biting, but most days, you may be better with artificial rather than dead bait.
Whatever luck your opening weekend brings, it will be acceptable I am sure. Victoria Day weekend mark’s the opening weekend of summer to most people in Northern Ontario. Cottages are opened for the first time, most provincial parks open for the season, and it’s the first long weekend where you can spend your days in a t-shirt. Whatever your long weekend brings, I hope and sincerely wish that it is safe and enjoyable for everyone.
Happy Sporting,
Robbie
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