Why Lake Erie Walleye Should Be On Your Bucketlist

⦁ It may be the best time in history to fish for Walleye on Lake Erie

In 2021, The Ohio Department of Natural Resources estimates there were 95 million walleye in the lake that are two years or older. A fish that is over two years is usually over 15 inches, the minimum size for keeping in Ohio. That number does not include younger fish from the spring spawn.

Lake Erie’s Walleye population is also increasing. According to Ohio’s Department of Natural Resources, “four of the past seven Walleye hatches have been from above-average to exceptional, including two of the largest hatches ever sampled. These successful hatches created strong 2015, 2018, and 2019 year classes that are driving population growth in the current age 2 and older population estimate.

Exceptional hatches from 2003-2010 are currently producing many trophy-sized fish. In 2020, the number of Walleye harvested per hour was the 4th highest on record, and most catches were in the 15-24” range, well into the legal limit.

**It may be the best time in history to fish for Walleye on Lake Erie**

The number of Walleye harvested per hour was the 4th highest on record, and most catches were in the 15-24” range, well into the legal limit.

⦁ Fill your freezer

Walleye have firm, white, and moist flesh with a mild taste, making them perfect for all types of preparation. I grew up in Key West, Florida with a diet of mostly Snapper, Grouper, Mahi-Mahi, Swordfish, and Wahoo, but I always jump at the chance to cook a fresh Walleye filet. For an added bonus, the cheeks of the Walleye are a serious delicacy.

The Walleye season in Ohio runs from March 1st to February 28th in 2022, with a daily limit of 6 per person and minimum size of 15 inches. With the abundance of trophy-size Walleye in Lake Erie, you will most likely have no problem filling your limit. June-September are arguably the most productive months for Walleye.

⦁ An abundance of commercial guides and fishing methods

In the spring and fall, Walleye congregate to shallow water allowing anglers to have great success fishing from shore, presenting an extremely low barrier to entry. This is the perfect chance for a quick weeknight getaway or a fun family weekend.

If you own your own boat, Lake Erie Walleye fishing is great for both experienced and novice anglers. The local bait shops are pretty friendly, so stop by to buy a fishing licenses and ask for some local intel while you’re at it. Just make sure that your boat is prepared to handle the seasonal conditions and weather changes.

If you don’t know where to start when fishing for Walleye or you want to maximize your time on the water and learn something, hiring an experienced and professional fishing guide is the best option for you. This is what these folks do for a living, so they are very proficient at finding and catching these fish. Professional guides can also help you have more fun on the water and stay safe.

⦁ Bonus catches

Not only does Lake Erie hold one of the largest Walleye populations in the world, but it also has other species that you may catch and keep. These include Perch, Steelhead, Brown Trout, Lake Trout, Smallmouth Bass, Chinook Salmon, and Coho Salmon.

About The Author

Turner Rowland was born in Key West, Florida, and has an avid passion for Inshore and offshore fishing. After moving to Tennessee early in life, he began a life-long fascination with wildlife, hunting, and fishing that has taken him around the world.

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