NEW! draft walleye management plan
This plan identifies several goals for managing walleye populations in Michigan’s inland waters. The goals broadly address social and ecological characteristics of walleye fisheries in Michigan because both elements are critical for successfully managing this species in the future. More specifically, each goal has a brief rationale, specific objectives and strategic actions documented to provide context and recommendations for how to achieve the desired management outcomes.
We are accepting written comments on the draft plan through April 1, 2021. All written comments should be submitted to DNR-Walleye@michigan.gov.
- View draft management plan »
Walleye are the largest member of the perch family. They lack the distinctive vertical bar makings of the yellow perch. They can be found in the Great Lakes and connecting waters as well as inland rivers, lakes and reservoirs, though many of the inland fisheries are dependent upon stocking programs to maintain fishable populations. The Lake Erie-Detroit River-Lake St. Clair-St. Clair River system is outstanding, drawing anglers from across the country in spring and early summer.
Early in the season, fishing bottom with lead-head jigs tipped with minnows or with plastic grub bodies is the top technique, but as the season progresses, trolling with plugs (such as Rapalas and Wiggle Warts) or spoons or with spinners and crawler harnesses becomes the preferred method.
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Illustrations by Joseph R. Tomelleri ©
