Walleye Fishing in Virginia
Overview
The Walleye is a popular freshwater game fish found throughout Virginia. The walleye is widely regarded as the finest-eating freshwater fish in North America and is the most sought-after species across the upper Midwest and Great Lakes region.
Best Waters in Virginia
- New River — river. Species: smallmouth-bass, walleye, musky, channel-catfish.
Local Techniques & Baits
Techniques
- jigging
- trolling
- live-bait
- ice-fishing
- night-fishing
Baits & Lures
- Jig and minnow (1/4-3/8 oz)
- Leech on live-bait rig
- Nightcrawler harness (spinner rig)
- Jigging Rap (size 7)
- Shad-pattern crankbait
- Reef Runner Ripshad
- Gulp! Alive minnow
- Blade bait (silver)
Seasonal Guide for Virginia
SpringSpring Fishing
Spring is the most important season for walleye anglers. Walleye spawn when water reaches 42-50F, running up rivers and congregating on wind-blown rocky shorelines. Post-spawn walleye are hungry and aggressive, making late spring one of the best fishing windows of the year. Jigs tipped with minnows or leeches along current breaks and rocky flats are deadly. Many rivers have outstanding tailrace fisheries below dams during the spring run.
SummerSummer Fishing
Summer walleye move to deeper structure, often relating to the thermocline layer in 15-30 feet of water. They hold on deep humps, reefs, weed edges, and main-lake points. Trolling with crankbaits and spinner harnesses is the most efficient way to locate and catch summer walleye. Live bait rigs with leeches or nightcrawlers fished slowly along structure transitions are also highly effective. Dawn and dusk remain the best bite windows.
FallFall Fishing
Fall walleye follow massive schools of baitfish, especially perch and shad, into shallow bays and along shorelines. This triggers some of the most aggressive feeding of the year as walleye fatten up for winter. Crankbaits and jigs worked along wind-blown rocky shorelines and points produce well. Water temps of 50-60F are the sweet spot. Night fishing from shore with jerkbaits can be outstanding in fall.
WinterWinter Fishing
Winter walleye slow down but remain catchable. They hold on deep structure such as mid-lake humps, points, and basin edges. In ice-fishing states, walleye are one of the most prized ice-fishing targets. Jigging with spoons, Jigging Raps, and jigs tipped with minnow heads through the ice is extremely popular. The low-light periods around dawn and dusk remain the most productive bite windows even under the ice.
Regulations
Regulations change frequently. Always verify current regulations with Virginia Fish & Wildlife. Information shown was last updated 2025-01-01.
| Bag Limit | 5 per day |
| Size Limit | 18 inches minimum |
| Season | Year-round |