The Walleye (Sander vitreus) is a ray-finned fish native to North America, belonging to the perch family, Percidae. This freshwater species is widely distributed across Canada and the northern United States, thriving in large lakes and river systems. It supports substantial commercial and recreational fisheries, and is a prized catch for anglers due to its challenging nature and reputation as an excellent table fish.
Distinct Physical Features
The Walleye is named for its eyes, which contain a reflective layer called the tapetum lucidum. This layer gives the eyes a glassy look, enhancing the fish’s ability to see and hunt in dim conditions, such as at night or in murky water. This adaptation provides a predatory advantage over its prey. The species exhibits an elongated, torpedo-shaped body, with coloration ranging from dark olive-brown to yellowish-gold.
The body is mottled with a pattern of six to ten dark blotches or bars along the back and sides. Walleye possess prominent canine teeth for capturing prey. They feature two distinct dorsal fins: the first is supported by 12 to 16 spines, and the second by one spine and 18 to 22 soft rays.
A definitive identifying mark is the dark spot found at the posterior base of the spiny dorsal fin. The caudal (tail) fin is forked, and its lower tip displays a characteristic white coloration. Average Walleye length is between 12 and 30 inches, though trophy specimens can reach 42 inches and weigh over 25 pounds.
Preferred Habitats and Geographic Range
Walleye are native across North America, ranging from Quebec to the Northwest Territories, and south into the United States, reaching Alabama and Arkansas. They are predominantly found in the St. Lawrence-Great Lakes, Arctic, and Mississippi River basins. This cool-water species prefers temperatures ranging from 20 to 24°C, avoiding temperatures above 24°C.
They thrive in large, shallow lakes, reservoirs, and rivers, preferring well-oxygenated environments. Their low-light vision allows them to inhabit turbid or murky water, where prey is disadvantaged. Walleye often seek deeper water or submerged structure during the day, becoming more active in the shallows at dawn and dusk.
Walleye as a Game Fish
The Walleye is a popular game fish, valued for its culinary qualities. Its flesh is regarded for its delicate, mild flavor and firm, flaky, white texture. The Walleye holds cultural significance in the upper Midwest of the United States, often featured in “walleye fish fries.”
Anglers target this species using techniques based on its behavior of retreating to deeper water or structure during the day. Common methods include trolling with live bait or lures, and jigging when fish are concentrated around structure. Success is often linked to the “walleye chop,” a wind-induced surface chop that increases water turbidity and encourages active feeding.