In many northern states and provinces, walleye fishing seasons close temporarily in the spring to protect fish during their spawning cycle. However, many rivers remain open year-round, offering anglers a unique chance to target walleyes during this critical window. These rivers become highways for spawning runs, and the combination of fish density, changing water temperatures, and manageable water levels make for an exceptional fishing experience.

Spring river walleye fishing is especially appealing because walleyes are actively feeding before and after the spawn. Anglers willing to brave chilly temperatures and unpredictable river conditions are often rewarded with some of the best action of the year.

Top Rivers for Spring Walleyes

Certain rivers have gained legendary status among spring walleye anglers. Each of these waterways supports massive spawning migrations, drawing in anglers from all over the region:

• Rainy River (MN/ON): Known for its trophy-class walleyes, this river offers early-season action as fish move out of Lake of the Woods.
• Wolf River (WI): A tributary of Lake Winnebago, it’s popular for both boat and shore anglers targeting pre-spawn fish.
• Fox River (WI): Flowing through Green Bay, the Fox is another hotspot known for its abundance of fish and accessibility.
• Mississippi River (MN/WI/IA): One of the largest walleye systems in the country, it offers dozens of productive pools and backwaters.
• Detroit River (MI): A major fishery linking Lake St. Clair and Lake Erie, the Detroit hosts one of the largest walleye migrations in the Great Lakes region.

Accessible Fishing for All Skill Levels

One of the great advantages of spring river walleye fishing is that it’s not exclusive to boaters. Many of these rivers have public piers, accessible shorelines, and wadeable sections that make it easy for anglers without a boat to get in on the action. In fact, shore fishing can be extremely productive, especially during the peak of the spawn when walleyes are shallow and near current breaks.

Families, beginners, and experienced anglers alike can enjoy spring river fishing without investing in expensive gear or electronics. A quality spinning rod, a few jigs, and a handful of live bait can be all that’s needed to land a limit of walleyes.

Where to Find Walleyes in the River

Understanding the structure of the river and how walleyes use it is key to catching fish consistently. In early spring, fish begin their upstream migration and often concentrate below dams, near tributary mouths, or along current seams.

Walleyes seek out slower water to conserve energy while still staying close to the current where baitfish are being funneled. Key areas to target include:

• Deep holes and troughs adjacent to fast water
• Back eddies behind wing dams or rock piles
• Current seams along shorelines or islands
• Flat gravel or sand spawning areas

Fish may move multiple times throughout the day, especially when water temperatures rise, so covering water and adjusting locations is important.

Effective Spring Techniques: Pre-Spawn Through Spawn

As the spawn begins, walleyes move onto shallow flats with gravel or sand bottoms, typically in just 1 to 4 feet of water. At this stage, fish can become finicky and sensitive to pressure. Downsizing your gear—using lighter line, smaller hooks, and subtler presentations—can make a significant difference. Floating jigs or slip bobbers paired with live bait can be effective when fished slowly in these shallow zones.

Anglers also find success trolling crankbaits along deeper channels to cover water efficiently and locate scattered fish. Live bait such as minnows or leeches presented on jigs or bottom bouncers can be deadly, particularly when targeting slow-moving fish holding tight to the bottom. Jigging near rock piles, bridge pilings, and other structure is another effective way to mimic the natural movements of forage species.

Nighttime often brings increased activity, as walleyes spawn under the cover of darkness. Casting stickbaits or suspending crankbaits parallel to shorelines or near rocky structure can produce explosive strikes. However, not all fish feed actively during the spawn, so patience and persistence are crucial. Adjust your approach based on conditions and be ready to switch tactics as fish behavior changes throughout the spring season.

Post-Spawn Patterns: Don’t Pack Up Yet

Many anglers miss out on the excellent bite that follows the spawn. As walleyes begin their downstream migration, they are often hungry and actively feeding to recover. These “down run” fish are usually scattered but can be found in current breaks, deeper holes, or along ledges.

Use jigs with plastics, blade baits, or even trolling small crankbaits along channel edges. Fish tend to group back up in traditional summer haunts, so mapping their post-spawn movement is essential for continued success.

Water Conditions: The Make-or-Break Factor

Spring river fishing is highly dependent on water conditions. Fast snowmelt or spring rains can quickly swell rivers and muddy the water. In contrast, stable or slowly rising water levels tend to concentrate fish and improve catch rates.

Ideally, look for water temperatures in the low to mid-40s Fahrenheit to signal the start of the spawn. Water clarity is another factor—if you can’t see your lure a foot below the surface, fish may struggle to find it. In such cases, try darker colors or lures with vibration to help them locate the bait.

Essential Gear and Safety Tips

River fishing can be rugged and unpredictable. Wear a life jacket when boating, especially in fast current. Non-slip boots are a must for shore anglers navigating wet rocks or muddy banks. A quality landing net and long-handled pliers make fish handling safer and easier.

Always check local fishing regulations—some rivers have special size limits or catch-and-release-only periods during the spawn. And as always, practice ethical angling by handling fish with care and releasing any spawners that aren’t destined for the table.