A glint of light off the side of a shiner may be the key to triggering a strike from a stubborn walleye. Emerald shiners are an important food for walleyes in many large lakes. But because emerald shiners are difficult to keep alive, many walleye experts use golden shiners.

Other popular baitfish for walleyes include fatheads, common shiners and redtail chubs. Madtoms work well for walleyes in rivers. For average-size walleyes use 21/2 – 3-inch baitfish. However, a walleye over 5-pounds can easily swallow a 6-inch minnow.

Slow-trolling with a slip-sinker rig probably accounts for more walleyes than any other bait-fishing technique. If you feel even the slightest tug, release the line so the fish can swim off without feeling resistance. Wait until the fish stops, then quickly reel up slack and set the hook.

Baitfish work best in spring and fall. But in northern lakes where natural foods are scarce, baitfish are effective for walleyes year-round. In these waters, dead or preserved baitfish work nearly as well as live ones.

How to Tie a Basic Slip-sinker Rig:

Step #1
Basic slip-sinker rigs are tied by threading a 1/4 – 1/2-ounce walking sinker on 8 – 10-pound mono.
Step #2
Attach a barrel swivel.
Step #3
Tie 3 feet of 6-pound mono to the swivel.
Step #4
Add a #4 or #6 short-shank hook.