Walleye

While Riddle, Oregon isn't the first place that springs to mind for walleye fishing, the South Umpqua River and nearby reservoirs like Galesville Reservoir offer surprisingly good opportunities. Walleye aren't native here, so they're not as numerous as in their traditional range, but the fish that are present can be quite large. The best time to target walleye is typically in the spring, as the water warms up and they move into shallower areas to spawn. Fall is another good time as they feed heavily before winter. A key to success is focusing on areas with structure, such as submerged timber, rock piles, or drop-offs. Local tip: Galesville Reservoir is known to have some submerged roadbeds and bridge pilings that hold walleye. Try trolling crankbaits along these areas. Also, be prepared for varying water levels in the river, which can affect fish location. Always check the current water conditions and regulations before heading out.