Walleye Fishing in Minnesota
6 per day
Varies by water body (commonly 15 inches minimum)
Mid-May through mid-February
Overview
Walleye is Minnesota's most popular gamefish and the state fish.
Mille Lacs Lake is the premier walleye destination, though regulations change frequently.
Leech Lake and Lake Winnibigoshish produce consistent walleye action throughout summer.
Live bait rigging with leeches is the classic Minnesota walleye technique.
Check current regulations carefully—slot limits and harvest restrictions vary by water.
Best Waters in Minnesota
- Mille Lacs Lake — Iconic walleye lake with large structure flats and mid-lake reefs holding walleye throughout the season.
- Leech Lake — Second-largest inland lake with excellent walleye populations on mud flats and rock reefs.
- Lake Winnibigoshish — Big lake in the Chippewa National Forest with outstanding walleye fishing year-round.
- Upper Red Lake — Revived walleye fishery with excellent numbers and trophy potential.
- Lake of the Woods — Border lake with Ontario producing trophy walleye on reefs and current areas.
Local Techniques & Baits
Techniques
- Live bait rigging
- Jigging with minnow
- Slip bobber
- Trolling crankbaits
- Lindy rigging
Baits & Lures
- Leeches
- Fathead minnows
- Nightcrawler harness
- Rapala Husky Jerk
- Northland Fireball jig
Seasonal Guide for Minnesota
SpringSpring Fishing
Walleye opener in May is a tradition. Target shallow reefs and windblown shorelines with jigs and minnows.
SummerSummer Fishing
Deep mud flats and rock reefs in 18-30 feet. Trolling spinner harnesses with nightcrawlers is deadly.
FallFall Fishing
Walleye move to main-lake structure and follow baitfish. Crankbaits trolled on lead core produce big fish.
WinterWinter Fishing
Ice fishing for walleye is a way of life. Tip-ups with minnows and jigging Rapalas on reefs and breaks.
Regulations
Regulations change frequently. Always verify current regulations with Minnesota Fish & Wildlife. Information shown was last updated 2025-01-01.
| Bag Limit | 6 per day |
| Size Limit | Varies by water body (commonly 15 inches minimum) |
| Season | Mid-May through mid-February |
| Notes | Regulations vary significantly by lake. Always check current MN DNR regulations. |