Walleye

Sander vitreus

Wisconsin's most popular game fish. Walleye thrive in the state's cold, clear lakes and rivers. Lake Winnebago's spring run, the Flambeau Flowages, and hundreds of northwoods lakes offer world-class walleye fishing year-round.

Size Limit

15 inches minimum (varies by water)

Daily Bag

5 (combined with sauger)

Season

First Saturday in May through March 1 (varies by zone)

State Record

18 lb

High Lake (1933)

Best Months to Fish

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

What to Use

Live Bait & Natural

LeechesNightcrawlersMinnowsFathead minnows

Lures & Artificials

Jig and minnowLindy rigCrankbaitsBlade baitsJigging Rapala

Walleye Fishing in Wisconsin

Wisconsin’s most popular game fish. Walleye thrive in the state’s cold, clear lakes and rivers. Lake Winnebago’s spring run, the Flambeau Flowages, and hundreds of northwoods lakes offer world-class walleye fishing year-round.

Regulation Notes

Special regulations on many waters. Ceded territory waters may have different rules. Always check lake-specific regulations.

More Wisconsin Fish Species

Bluegill

Centrarchidae

Brook Trout

Salmonidae

Lake Sturgeon

Acipenseridae

White Bass

Moronidae

Green Sunfish

Centrarchidae

Coho Salmon (Silver Salmon)

Salmonidae

View all fish species →

Plan Your Walleye Trip

Find lakes, guides, and bait shops for your next walleye fishing trip in Wisconsin.

Explore Lakes Find a Guide Bait & Tackle

Regulations shown are statewide defaults. Some waters have special regulations — always check the current Wisconsin DNR regulations before fishing. A Wisconsin fishing license is required for ages 16+.