In the springtime, Ohio is not the Buckeye State for some people. It’s the Walleye State.
Thousands of walleye spawn each year in the western basin of Lake Erie, approximately a two-hour drive from Knox County.
“There they will spawn on the reefs, basins, and rivers,” an article on the Lake Erie Fish website said. “River fishing for spawning walleye has become quite popular and a pastime for a lot anglers.”
“Walleye are a large predatory fish that have many sharp teeth in their mouth,” the Ohio Department of Natural Resources describes the fish on its website. They can weigh as much as 16 pounds.
The most popular of the rivers for walleye fishing is the Maumee, Lake Erie Fish said.
“The walleye come in to the river and spawn on the gravel in the fast water,” the article said. “Anglers use floating jigs to catch the fish. This jig setup must have a single hook and not have an opening greater than 1/2 inch. Braid fishing line to a fluorocarbon leader is what most use.”
The State of Ohio has strict rules about fishing for spawning walleye.
“Dropping the limit to four (fish) per person, single hook with no more than 1/2 inch opening, and area restrictions,” Lake Erie Fish said. “In addition, any walleye that the hook is outside the mouth when caught is considered snagged and must be returned immediately.”
The Sandusky River is a good alternative fishing spot for walleye.
“It gets less pressure but can be just as productive at times,” the article stated. “There are a lot of walleye that move through the bay to get to the river. Some stay and spawn in the bay, but most move on to the river. The same Ohio laws apply to the Sandusky River that apply to the Maumee River. Some of the more popular areas are in Fremont below the main bridge. There is nice parking and plenty of room.”
Lake Erie Fish recommends calling area bait shops for the latest reports on where walleye are being caught. Also, check the river flow with the U.S. Geological Service.
“There is nothing worse than showing up and the river being high and muddy,” Lake Erie Fish said. “You will be wasting your time.”
The article also recommends taking a set of waders with you.
“If you show up in sneakers you will be turning around and going home,” it said.
Finally, the article reminds anglers to, above all, have fun.
