Walleye

Walleye fishing near Watertown, Minnesota, centers around Lake Waconia, the area's largest lake. While not known as a walleye hotspot, Waconia offers a decent population for anglers willing to put in the time. The best times to target walleye here are in the spring and fall, when water temperatures are cooler. Early spring, right after ice-out, can be particularly productive as walleye move shallow to spawn. In the fall, they'll be actively feeding to prepare for winter. Trolling crankbaits or jigging along structure, such as points and humps, are popular techniques. A local tip: pay close attention to wind direction, as walleye tend to congregate on the windward side of the lake. Also, be aware that Lake Waconia can get crowded, especially on weekends, so consider fishing during the week or early mornings. The walleye in Waconia are generally of average size, but larger fish are occasionally caught.