Walleye

Walleye fishing near Sullivan, Missouri, requires a bit of a drive to reach suitable habitat. While not directly in Sullivan, nearby larger reservoirs and rivers hold populations of walleye. The best time to target walleye in this region is during the spring spawning run or the fall feeding frenzy. Focus your efforts on areas with rocky points, submerged timber, and deep water access. A good option is driving a bit further to the Lake of the Ozarks, which has a solid walleye population. For closer options, consider the Meramec River, focusing on deeper pools and areas below riffles. A key local tip is to fish during low-light conditions, such as early morning, late evening, or on cloudy days, as walleye are sensitive to bright sunlight. Jigs tipped with minnows or nightcrawlers are effective, as are trolling crankbaits. The walleye population isn't extremely dense, so patience and persistence are key to success.