Walleye

Walleye fishing near Hayden, Idaho, centers around Hayden Lake and the nearby Spokane River system. While not as renowned as some other walleye destinations, Hayden offers a solid opportunity to land these tasty fish. The key is understanding their seasonal movements. Spring, after ice-out, can be excellent as walleye move into shallower areas to spawn. Trolling crankbaits along the drop-offs and submerged points is a productive tactic. Fall, as water temperatures cool, also triggers a feeding frenzy. Jigging near the lake's deeper structure is a good bet then. A local's secret? Walleye often relate to the thermocline during the summer months, so use your electronics to locate this temperature break. Be aware of specific regulations regarding size and creel limits on Hayden Lake and the Spokane River, which can vary.