July walleye fishing tips are essential for any angler looking to reel in some big catches during the warm summer months. Walleye behavior changes as temperatures rise, making it important to understand their habits in order to have successful fishing trips. During July, walleye often move deeper into the water to seek cooler temperatures and follow their preferred food sources.
This means that anglers need to adjust their fishing techniques and equipment to locate and lure them effectively. By focusing on the right locations, choosing the perfect bait, and employing practical fishing methods, you can significantly increase your chances of hooking some impressive walleye this summer.
So, if you’re planning a walleye fishing trip this July, make sure to keep these tips in mind to make the most out of your fishing experience.
Key Takeaways
- Walleye’s behavior changes in response to rising summer temperatures, impacting your fishing strategy.
- To catch walleye in July, focus on deeper water locations and use suitable bait and techniques.
- Choosing the right gear and learning from expert advice can improve your success rate in summer walleye fishing.
Understanding Walleye in Summer
During the summer months, walleye behavior can change drastically due to the warmer water temperatures and increased daylight hours. To successfully catch walleye in July, it’s essential to understand these changes and adapt your fishing techniques accordingly.
As the dog days of summer roll in, walleyes tend to make significant adjustments to their patterns. In some lakes, they may be found in both shallow and deep waters, depending on the location . You need to pay attention to the water temperatures since they play a crucial role in walleye behavior. Walleyes might be more active in deeper waters during the day, so if you’re fishing during daytime hours, it might be a good idea to concentrate on deep-water structures.
Now, let’s talk about some patterns summer walleyes might adopt to accommodate the warm weather. In deeper waters, they may suspend themselves, roam the basin, or settle near the summer thermocline (a layer in the water where temperature changes rapidly) . Meanwhile, in shallow waters, walleyes might seek cooler spots with more significant cover or near underwater structures, providing them with a comfortable environment away from the scorching sun.
When it comes to fishing for walleye in the summer, your approach should be adaptable to the specific conditions and environment of your chosen fishing spot. Try switching between various fishing techniques such as jigging or using live bait to target schooling fish around deep structures . By understanding the dynamic behavior of walleyes during these warm months, you can increase your chances of bringing home a prized catch. Happy fishing!
Footnotes
- https://www.themeateater.com/fish/freshwater/how-to-catch-walleye-in-the-summer ↩
- https://www.gameandfishmag.com/editorial/5-best-tips-for-catching-walleye-in-summer/332322 ↩ ↩2
- https://www.gameandfishmag.com/editorial/late-summer-walleyes-3-deadly-tips-to-catch-a-limit/384151 ↩
Best Time for July Walleye Fishing
July is an excellent month for walleye fishing, as the warm weather brings these fish closer to the surface and more active. Late summer, during the months of July and August, is known as the “dog days” of walleye fishing because the warmer water temperatures can make the fish more difficult to locate. But don’t worry, with the right strategies, you can still have a successful fishing trip during this time.
The first thing you need to know is that walleyes are more active during the early morning and late evening hours. In the summer, this means between 5 am and 9 am in the morning, and an hour before sunset to several hours after in the evening. So, set your alarm, grab a cup of coffee, and get ready for some prime walleye fishing!
Another important factor to consider when fishing for walleyes in July is their preference for cooler water. As the temperatures rise throughout the day, walleyes will often retreat to deeper waters in search of a more comfortable temperature. Consider targeting areas with cooler water, such as weedbeds, where walleyes are known to hide during daytime hours.
Finally, don’t forget to pay attention to the moon’s phases. During the new moon, walleyes tend to be more active and venture out into open water. Conversely, during the full moon, their activity might decrease due to the brighter light conditions making them more cautious. Planning your fishing trips around the moon’s phases can give you an advantage.
In conclusion, to have a successful walleye fishing trip in July, focus on fishing during the early morning and late evening hours, seek out cooler waters like weed beds, and plan your trip around the moon’s phases. Happy fishing!
Ideal Locations for Walleye Fishing in Summer
Now that the summer is here, you might be wondering where to find walleye during these warmer months. The good news is that walleye are still very much active during this time and can be found in various water depths and structures. Let’s take a look at some ideal locations to target walleye in July.
When it comes to shallow water, consider fishing near shoals with compacted sand, rock, or weed bottoms, which are high-percentage summer walleye spots. Waves crashing or weeds growing can bring higher oxygen levels and create the start of the food pyramid, making these spots more attractive to the fish.
Deep water locations are also prime spots for walleye. As the summer temperatures rise, some walleye can be found at the base of deep structure, just above the thermocline. This is where vertical jigging with heavy jigs and live bait can be an effective tactic to catch them. Additionally, walleye might lie at the edge of bottom channels or roam around the open lake basin.
When considering the main lake, don’t forget about fishing near weed edges. During the summer, walleye may be patrolling these areas or hiding in woody cover on flats. These spots can often be found just above the thermocline, which makes them an excellent place to focus your efforts.
Aside from the main lake, you can also find walleye around weed edges, where they hide or wait for prey. Make use of your fish finder to locate them and adapt your techniques accordingly, such as using a slip sinker rig or Lindy rig with live bait.
Finally, walleye may also venture into deeper water at night or on windy days, looking for food around shallow rock reefs. So, don’t hesitate to fish in these areas, as this can yield excellent results.
Remember to keep these locations in mind when you’re out on the water this summer. By targeting the right spots, you’ll increase your chances of hooking into some walleye during their active summer months. Happy fishing!
Choosing the Right Bait
When it comes to July walleye fishing, choosing the right bait can make all the difference in your success. In the summertime, walleyes are often more active and feeding on a variety of food sources, making it essential to know which baits will be the most effective.
One popular bait choice for walleye fishing is the use of live bait. This can include minnows, leeches, and nightcrawlers. Minnows, especially shiners, are a favorite among walleye due to their natural movement and scent. To make your bait more irresistible, try using a hook that allows the minnow to move freely, making it look even more lifelike.
Leeches are another excellent live bait option for catching walleye in July. Their wiggling action makes them highly enticing, and they can be easily fished on a hook or with a jig. Since leeches are tough and durable, they will not easily come off the hook even when aggressively struck by a walleye.
Nightcrawlers can also be used effectively during the summer months. These earthworms are a natural part of the walleye diet and can be fished on a hook or combined with a spinner to create even more attraction. Keep in mind that a nightcrawler should be threaded onto the hook in such a way that it appears as natural as possible, without any unusual kinks or bends.
Live bait can be the key to getting walleyes to bite during the summer, but don’t underestimate the power of artificial lures as well. Crankbaits and diving plugs can be successful, especially when mimicking patterns and colors of the walleye’s natural prey.
Remember, the summer months offer a unique opportunity to capitalize on the walleye’s active feeding habits. By selecting the right bait, whether it’s a minnow, leech, or nightcrawler, you can increase your chances of reeling in some trophy catches. Don’t forget to experiment with different methods and presentations to find what works best for your specific fishing conditions. Good luck on the water!
Effective Fishing Techniques
When it comes to July walleye fishing, there are a variety of effective techniques to help you catch more fish. Let’s discuss some popular methods that can enhance your fishing experience.
Jigging is a go-to technique for many walleye anglers. Use a jig head and pair it with a soft plastic or live bait, such as minnows or leeches. Drop your jig to the bottom and gently bounce it up and down. Pay attention to your line as walleye tend to strike subtly, so you’ll need to be quick to set the hook.
Trolling is another great way to cover a large area and target walleye that may be suspended or scattered. When trolling, try using deep-diving crankbaits or planer boards to get your bait to the desired depth. Adjust your trolling speed depending on the activity level of the fish, ranging from 2.2 to 2.8 miles per hour.
Bottom bouncers are effective when walleye are hugging the bottom. Attach a bottom bouncer to your line, followed by a 3 to 4-foot leader with a spinner or live bait rig. As you slowly troll, the bouncer will keep your bait close to the bottom, making it hard to resist for any walleye in the area.
Live bait rigs can be especially productive in July, as natural presentations often entice wary fish. Use a lake map to identify potential hotspots, such as sharp drop-offs, weed lines, or underwater humps. Rig up a live bait rig with a minnow, leech, or nightcrawler, and slowly work your offering over these structures.
Remember, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to walleye fishing. You might want to combine these techniques, for example, by using bottom bouncers and live bait, or trolling with planer boards. Experiment with different approaches and learn to adapt to the specific conditions on the water. With a little practice, you’ll be well on your way to mastering the art of July walleye fishing. Happy angling!
Choosing the Right Gear for Walleye Fishing
When it comes to walleye fishing in July, selecting the appropriate gear is essential to maximize your chances of success. The first thing you’ll need is a reliable walleye rod. The length and kind of walleye rod you pick should cater to the fishing technique you’ll be using. For example, if you’re casting or jigging, a 6’6″ to 7′ medium-light action rod is a solid choice.
Pair your rod with a quality reel that offers a smooth drag system and can hold at least 150 yards of 6 to 10-pound test line. Braided or fluorocarbon lines work great for walleye fishing as they provide excellent sensitivity, allowing you to feel even the slightest bites.
Now let’s talk about lures. One popular brand that offers a variety of successful walleye lures is Northland Fishing Tackle. Some of their top-performing lures include the Northland Rumble Shad, which is a versatile crankbait that mimics the movement of baitfish. This lure is perfect for both shallow and deep water fishing.
Additionally, Northland Tackle’s jigs, spoons, and live-bait rigs are also highly effective in walleye fishing. Experiment with various colors and sizes until you find the combination that works best for your specific fishing location and conditions.
Here’s a summary of the essential walleye fishing gear you’ll need:
- A medium-light action walleye rod, 6’6″ to 7′ in length
- A quality reel with a smooth drag system
- 150 yards of 6 to 10-pound test line (braided or fluorocarbon)
- A selection of Northland Fishing Tackle lures, including the Northland Rumble Shad
Remember, every location can be different, so be prepared to adapt your gear and techniques to suit the environment you’re fishing in. Keep these tips in mind, and you’ll be well on your way to a successful July walleye fishing adventure. Happy fishing!
Tips from Expert Walleye Anglers
Now that July is here, it’s time to get serious about fishing for walleye. Expert walleye anglers have some tried-and-true tips that can help you catch more of this delicious fish. Here are some of their best recommendations.
First and foremost, look for weed lines. According to the folks at Midwest Liprippers, many anglers start searching deeper waters once June and July arrive. However, there’s excellent walleye fishing in shallow waters as well due to the intense weed growth creating an ideal habitat for them.
Next, keep an eye on the baitfish. Kent Hutcheson, a veteran walleye guide, says that successful summer walleye anglers need to pay attention to both baitfish and walleye habits. As water temperatures rise, baitfish move to deeper water, and walleyes follow them. It’s not unusual to find walleyes in depths of 40 feet or more.
Speed is essential when targeting walleyes near the bottom. Experts at Game & Fish suggest getting started at a trolling speed of 2.2 to 2.8 miles per hour. Adjust your speed and the amount of line you let out to connect you with the bottom better.
Finally, don’t be afraid to switch up your approach. According to MeatEater Fishing, summertime walleyes could be located in both shallow and deep areas. So, explore various locations and methods until you find what works best for you in your specific fishing spot.
Following these tips from seasoned walleye anglers and guides might be just what you need to increase your chances of a successful catch this July. Happy fishing!
Conclusion
In summary, summer walleye fishing can be both an exciting and productive experience. With a good understanding of walleye habits and preferences, you’ll be well on your way to catching these elusive fish.
You’ve learned some valuable tips to help you locate and catch walleye during these warmer months. Familiarizing yourself with walleye location can make all the difference in your pursuit, so remember to focus on structure and depths, as well as daytime versus nighttime fishing. Be open to trying new techniques and locations, as catching these clever fish is often a matter of being adaptable and observant.
When it comes to lures and bait, make sure you match them to the walleyes’ natural prey during the summer months. This will significantly improve your chances of enticing this fish to bite. Don’t forget to switch it up and try different lures, as walleyes can be quite picky.
Finally, remember that walleye fishing in July is meant to be an enjoyable and rewarding activity, so have fun and enjoy the experience. With these tips in mind, you are sure to have a successful summer walleye fishing adventure. Tight lines and happy angling!
Frequently Asked Questions
What depth should I fish for walleye in July?
In July, walleye can be found at various depths depending on the body of water. Some walleyes may stay shallow while others prefer deeper areas. Use a lake map to help you locate likely walleye haunts and adjust your fishing depth accordingly.
Do walleye bite in July?
Yes, walleye do bite in July! Their feeding habits may change due to the warmer weather, but with a little patience and dedication to finding their preferred locations, you can enjoy summer walleye fishing.
What do walleye eat in July?
Just like the rest of the year, walleyes mostly feed on smaller fish and insects. It’s a good idea to adjust your bait and lure selection based on the local forage fish species that walleye commonly feed on during the summer months.
Where to find mid summer walleye?
Mid-summer walleye can sometimes be found in both shallow and deep areas of the water. Factors like water temperature, food availability, and structure play a significant role in determining where walleye will be located. Using a lake map should help you pinpoint suitable spots based on these factors.
How to catch late summer walleyes?
To catch late summer walleyes, you should experiment with various techniques such as trolling, jigs and plastics, and spinnerbaits. Make sure to adapt your lures and presentation depending on the depth and location of the walleye you’re targeting.`
Walleye fishing techniques for July?
Some effective walleye fishing techniques for July include trolling at a rate of 2.2 to 2.8 miles per hour, using spinnerbaits in areas with structure, and experimenting with various jig sizes and plastics. Remember to adjust your methods based on the specific conditions you’re fishing in.