Blade Bait Fishing Tactics For Walleye

Introduction

Blade baits have long been favored by anglers targeting walleye due to their ability to attract and entice these elusive fish. In this guide, we will delve into the world of blade bait fishing tactics for walleye. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced angler, this article will provide valuable insights to help you improve your walleye fishing game using blade baits.

Understanding Blade Baits

Blade baits are compact metal lures designed to mimic wounded baitfish. Their slender profile and metal blade create enticing vibrations and flash that trigger the predatory instincts of walleye. The vibrations produced by blade baits are particularly effective in colder water conditions when walleye tend to be less active.

Selecting the Right Blade Bait

Choosing the right blade bait is crucial for success in walleye fishing. Consider the following factors when selecting a blade bait:

Size and Weight: The size and weight of the blade bait should match the prevailing forage size in the water. Smaller blade baits ranging from 3/8 to 7/8 ounces are generally effective for walleye.

Color Selection: Opt for colors that imitate the prevalent forage in the water. Silver, gold, and natural finishes are popular choices for blade baits targeting walleye. In clear water, choose more natural and subtle colors, while in stained or murky water, opt for brighter and more contrasting colors.

Techniques for Blade Bait Fishing

a. Vertical Jigging:

Vertical jigging is a classic technique for targeting walleye with blade baits. Follow these steps for successful vertical jigging:

1. Locate promising areas such as drop-offs, humps, or structure where walleye are likely to hold.
2. Position your boat directly over the target area and lower your blade bait to the desired depth.
3. Use a rhythmic jigging motion, lifting the rod tip sharply and allowing the bait to fall back down. Pay attention to subtle strikes or changes in resistance.

b. Casting and Retrieving:

Casting and retrieving blade baits allows you to cover a larger area and locate active walleye. Follow these steps:

1. Cast your blade bait near potential walleye holding areas, such as weed edges, rock formations, or points.
2. Allow the bait to sink to the desired depth before starting your retrieve.
3. Retrieve the blade bait with a steady, medium-paced retrieve, occasionally adding twitches or pauses to mimic injured baitfish. Vary the speed and retrieve style until you find what works best for the walleye's feeding behavior.

c. Trolling with Blade Baits:

1. Choose a trolling speed that matches the walleye's activity level. Slow to moderate speeds are generally effective.
2. Attach a blade bait to a trolling rig or use planer boards to spread your lines and cover a larger area.
3. Vary your trolling depth by using different weight blade baits or adding weight to the line. This allows you to target walleye at various depths.

Blade Bait Retrieval Techniques

a. Steady Retrieve:

The steady retrieve is a simple and effective technique for imitating a swimming baitfish. Follow these steps:

1. Cast your blade bait and let it sink to the desired depth.

2. Start a steady retrieve, maintaining a consistent speed and depth.

3. The blade bait's inherent action and vibrations will attract nearby walleye. Pay attention to any changes in resistance or strikes and be ready to set the hook.

b. Rip and Pause:

The rip and pause technique adds action and variation to your retrieve, triggering aggressive strikes from walleye. Follow these steps:

1. Cast your blade bait and let it sink to the desired depth.
2. Use a sharp upward rod motion to rip the blade bait upward, creating an erratic and fleeing action.
3. Allow the bait to flutter and fall back down, imitating an injured prey. Pause briefly before repeating the ripping motion.
4. This technique often entices walleye that are following the bait but haven't committed to striking. The sudden change in movement can trigger a predatory response.

c. Bottom Bouncing:

Bottom bouncing with blade baits is an effective technique for targeting walleye holding near the lake or riverbed. Follow these steps:

1. Cast your blade bait and let it sink to the bottom.
2. Use a slow, steady retrieve, letting the blade bait bounce along the bottom.
3. The bouncing action imitates an injured prey and can trigger strikes from walleye.
4. Pay attention to changes in bottom composition or structure as these areas can attract walleye.

Tips and Tricks for Success

a. Reading the Water:

Understanding the water conditions and walleye behavior is key to successful blade bait fishing. Look for depth changes, structure, and areas where baitfish congregate. Walleye often relate to these features.

b. Seasonal Patterns and Water Temperature:

Walleye behavior and feeding patterns change with the seasons and water temperature. In colder water, slow down your presentation and focus on deeper areas where walleye seek warmer water. As water temperatures rise, walleye become more active, allowing for faster retrieves and targeting shallower areas.

c. Adaptation:

Don't be afraid to experiment with blade bait sizes, colors, and retrieval techniques to find what works best in different conditions. Walleye can be finicky, and their preferences may vary from day to day. Be willing to adapt and adjust your approach based on the fish's response.

Gear and Equipment

a. Fishing Rod, Reel, and Line:

Choose a medium-light to medium-power spinning rod and reel combo that can handle the weight of the blade bait. A sensitive rod with a fast or extra-fast action is ideal for detecting subtle strikes. Use a low-stretch braided line to enhance sensitivity and detect even the slightest taps.

b. Essential Tackle and Accessories:

Carry a variety of blade baits in different sizes and colors to match the conditions. Have a quality fishing net, pliers, and hook sharpening tools on hand. These tools will help you handle and release walleye efficiently.

c. Maintenance and Care:

After each fishing trip, rinse your blade baits with freshwater to remove any debris or saltwater. Inspect hooks for sharpness and replace if necessary. Store your blade baits in a tackle box or organizer to prevent tangling and damage.

Conclusion:

Mastering blade bait fishing tactics is a valuable skill for targeting walleye. By understanding the unique characteristics of blade baits, selecting the appropriate techniques, and adapting to different conditions, you can increase your chances of hooking that trophy walleye. Remember to experiment, be patient, and enjoy the thrill of walleye fishing with blade baits.