Walleye

While Sumner, Washington, isn't typically the first place that comes to mind for walleye fishing, the nearby Columbia River system offers opportunities within driving distance. The key is understanding the seasonal movements of these fish. Spring and fall are prime times, as walleye migrate upstream to spawn or downstream to overwinter. Focus your efforts on areas with current breaks, submerged structure, and depth changes. Popular access points include boat ramps along the Columbia River near the I-5 corridor. Be aware of strong currents and changing water levels, especially during spring runoff. Local anglers often use jigs tipped with nightcrawlers or plastic swimbaits worked slowly along the bottom. The walleye population in this region is supported by stocking programs, so check the WDFW regulations for size and bag limits before heading out. Also, consider investing in a good sonar unit to locate submerged structure where walleye tend to congregate.