Walleye
Renowned as excellent table fare, walleye are one of the most important and sought-after game fish in North America. Often thought of as a fish that inhabits lakes and rivers located in northern latitudes, walleye are native to Missouri’s larger rivers and streams.
Life Cycle
Walleye are one of the first fish to spawn in the spring. Spawning typically begins when water temperatures exceed 46°F. Mature walleye spawn on gravel shoals of tributary streams that flow into large reservoirs and on rocky points or along the rocky face of dams within the reservoir. Eggs are deposited along the rocks and left to develop without any parental care.
Young walleye mainly eat zooplankton (microscopic animals) and aquatic insects, but quickly convert to a diet of primarily fish within their first year. Their main food items include, but are not limited to, gizzard and threadfin shad, minnows, other fish species, crayfish, etc.
Walleye in south Missouri can grow up to 18” by their third year, while fish in the northern part of state may not reach that length until their fifth or sixth year. Abundance and availability of prey and the length of growing season all play a part in these growth differences.
Range and Habitat
The fish prefer the deeper pools and are attracted to areas with flow and good habitat. In the big rivers this could be near locks, dams and jetties while on the smaller rivers, submerged boulders, logs and root wads are attractive.
In lakes, rocky banks, points and bluffs adjacent to submerged river channels and drop-offs are usually good locations for walleye. Since walleye prefer cool water, the depth at which they are found is dependant upon the season of the year, water temperature and oxygen concentrations. Walleye also inhabit the lakes' tributaries and streams, as long as there is ample flow.
Fun Facts
Walleye are the largest member of the perch family, which also includes sauger, yellow perch and darters. Other common names for walleye are jack salmon and walleyed pike.
The fish’s large, opaque eyes are efficient at gathering light. Thus, walleye are very effective at feeding during low-light conditions and nighttime hours.
