The Secrets Of Walleye Fishing In Arizona

Walleye prefer moderately deep lakes with gravel, rock or sandy bottoms. It is found primarily in cold water lakes but has proven to survive in warmer impoundments. It is prized for its great tasting filets. Click here to learn all about walleye fishing.

Walleye fishing in Arizona provides anglers with exciting opportunities to target this highly prized game fish. Although not as abundant as other species, walleye can be found in select lakes and rivers throughout the state. These fish are known for their excellent table fare and challenging nature, making them a sought-after catch among anglers.

Several lakes in Arizona offer walleye fishing opportunities. Apache Lake, located near Phoenix, is known for a minor walleye population and attracts anglers looking to land these elusive fish. Other lakes such as Show Low Lake, Fool Hollow Lake, Upper Mary Lake and Lake Powell also provide suitable habitats for walleye. These lakes offer vast expanses of water and favorable conditions, making them ideal for walleye angling.

Anglers can target walleye in these fisheries using a variety of techniques, including trolling with crankbaits, jigging with minnows or soft plastics, and casting with spinnerbaits.

Arizona has witnessed impressive walleye catches over the years, resulting in noteworthy state records. The current state record for walleye in Arizona stands at over 16 pounds, caught in Show Low Lake. This record demonstrate the potential for landing trophy-sized walleye in the state's waters.

When planning a walleye fishing trip in Arizona, it is essential to familiarize oneself with the specific regulations and restrictions for each water body. Conservation measures and bag limits are in place to ensure the sustainability of walleye populations. Anglers should also be aware of seasonal patterns and prime feeding times, as walleye are known for their nocturnal and low-light feeding habits.

Arizona's walleye fisheries provide an exciting and rewarding experience for dedicated anglers. With the chance to land trophy-sized fish, picturesque surroundings, and the challenge of outsmarting these cunning predators, walleye fishing in Arizona offers an unforgettable angling adventure.

Walleye Lakes In AZ

Arizona offers limited walleye fishing. Fool Hollow Lake and Show Low Lake are the primary places to fish for walleye. Other lakes like Apache Lake, Canyon Lake, Roosevelt and Saguaro Lake and Upper Lake Mary all have occasional catches.

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Top lures for walleye in Arizona

Walleye jigs work well in virtually any depth water. When walleyes are shallow, spinnerbaits, small crankbaits and rip baits are the often very productive. As they move deeper, spoons are ideal when walleye are active. Understanding the seasonal movements of walleyes can enhance your chances of selecting the right lures for conditions on local waters.

The state record walleye was caught out of Show Low Lake.

Read Gregg Munck's article about AZ walleye fishing.

Arizona walleye spawn in spring and when they have the option will choose to migrate from the lake up into feeder streams to spawn. If this option is not available they seek out shallow bars or shoals with clean bottom surfaces near deep water.

Fishing For Walleye

This toothy fish will eat virtually anything it can catch and get in its mouth. They prefer small fish and will eat crustaceans, worms and insects. They tend to be somewhat wary and prefer the safety of deeper darker water. Trolling for walleye with deep diving crankbaits, jerkbaits, spinners and live bait provides a way to cover vast areas and locate concentrations of fish. Use of planer boards allows anglers to cover water out both sides of the boat while trolling. Try fishing for walleye from sundown to midnight, particularly during the heat of summer.

Watch this video for walleye tips and tactics.

Walleye Resources

In-Fisherman - Walleye
U.S. Fish & Wildlife - Walleye
The National Wildlife Federation - Walleye

Also find information about walleye, sauger or saugeye fishing in these states.