Walleye

Walleye fishing near Eagle River, Alaska, offers a unique opportunity to target this popular sport fish in an unexpected environment. While not native to the region, successful stocking programs have established walleye populations in certain lakes and reservoirs within the Matanuska-Susitna Valley. The best time to target walleye is during the spring and fall months, particularly during the pre-spawn and post-spawn periods. Focus on areas with rocky structures, drop-offs, and submerged timber, where walleye like to ambush prey. Jigs tipped with live bait or plastic trailers are effective, as are crankbaits trolled along deeper edges. Given the colder climate, walleye tend to be less aggressive than their southern counterparts, so a slower presentation can be beneficial. Access to these waters varies, so be sure to research public access points and boat launches beforehand. Remember to check local regulations for size and bag limits, as they may differ from those in other walleye fisheries.