Walleye fishing is a popular pastime for many anglers. The challenge of landing these wily fish is what keeps people coming back for more. But, in order to be successful, you need to know what walleye rigs work best for three-season fishing. In this blog post, we will explore the best walleye rigs for three-season fishing. We’ll cover everything from live bait rigs to jigging rigs and more. So, whether you’re a novice angler or a seasoned pro, read on to learn the best way to rig up for success this season.
The Jig and Minnow Rig
One of the best walleye rigs for three-season fishing is the jig and minnow rig. This rig is effective in a variety of situations, including when the fish are holding close to the bottom or suspended in midwater.
The jig and minnow rig consists of a jigging spoon, a live minnow, and a leader. The spoon is attached to the main line with a swivel, and the minnow is hooked through the lips with a small hook. The leader is tied to the spoon with a loop knot.
To fish this rig, cast it out and let it sink to the bottom. Then, lift your rod tip and reel in slack line as you jig the spoon up and down. The spoon will flash and flutter as it rises and falls, attracting fish from a distance. Keep your rod tip up so that you feel the strike when a fish hits, then set the hook firmly.
This rig can be fished in water of any depth, making it ideal for exploring new areas or targeting specific depths where fish are known to be holding. It’s also a good choice when fish are finicky and not biting aggressively. By using different sizes and colors of spoons, as well as live bait of various types, you can experiment until you find what triggering strikes from walleyes in your area.
The Bottom-Bouncing Rig
If you want to target walleye in the spring, summer, and fall, then a bottom-bouncing rig is your best bet. This rig is very versatile and can be used in a variety of situations.
To tie a bottom-bouncing rig, start with a mainline that is about 20 feet long. Then, attach a sinker to the end of the line using a small swivel. Next, tie on a lure or bait of your choice. Finally, add a leader of about 2 feet to the other end of the swivel.
When fishing with a bottom-bouncing rig, cast your line out and allow it to sink to the bottom. Then, slowly reel in your line while bouncing the sinker along the bottom. This will help attract fish and get them to bite.
Bottom-bouncing rigs are great for catching walleye in all types of water conditions. They are especially effective in deep water or when fishing around structure. So, if you want to increase your chances of success this season, make sure to give this rig a try.
The Slip-Bobber Rig
Slip-bobber rigs are one of the most popular and versatile walleye rigs. They can be used to fish a variety of depths and can be adjusted to fish different types of bait.
Slip-bobber rigs can be fished with live bait or artificial lures. Live bait such as minnows or leeches are commonly used, but worms and nightcrawlers also work well. Artificial lures such as jigs and crankbaits can also be effective, especially when fishing in deeper water.
Slip-bobber rigs are relatively easy to set up and use. A starightforward rig consists of a line, a bobber stop, a slip bobber, a bead, a sinker, and a hook. The line is tied to the Bobber stop which is threaded onto the line above the slip bobber. The bead is then placed on the line below the slip bobber followed by the sinker. Finally, the hook is tied onto the end of the line.
Once the rig is assembled, it can be cast out and allowed to sink to the desired depth. The slip bobber will stop at the desired depth, allowing the bait to suspend in front of any fish in the area. This is an extremely effective rig for targeting walleyes that are holding tight to structure or suspended in mid-water column.
The Lindy Rig
There are a variety of rigs that can be used for walleye fishing, but the Lindy rig is one of the best options for three-season fishing. This rig is versatile and can be used in a variety of situations, making it a great option for anglers who want to be able to fish in all types of conditions.
The Lindy rig is made up of a main line, a leader, and a hook. The main line is attached to the leader, and the hook is attached to the end of the leader. The length of the main line and leader will vary depending on the depth of water you are fishing in. The hook can be baited with live bait or artificial lures.
When using this rig, it is important to set the drag on your reel so that it is light enough to allow the fish to take the bait without being able to break the line. Once a fish is hooked, you can then increase the drag to help land the fish.
This rig can be used in both deep and shallow water, making it a versatile option for anglers. It is a great choice for those who want to be able to fish in all types of conditions.
The Crawler Harness Rig
The three-season walleye rig is a versatile and effective way to catch fish during the spring, summer, and fall. This rig can be used in a variety of situations and is versatile enough to catch a variety of fish species. The crawler harness rig is a great choice for anglers who want to catch walleye, pike, or other fish that swim near the bottom of lakes and rivers. This rig is also a good choice for anglers who want to use live bait, as the harness will keep the bait in place and allow it to move freely.
Walleye Rigs: Step-by-Step Instructions
When it comes to walleye rigs, there are a few different ways that you can go about rigging your line. The most popular method is the three-way rig, which is relatively simple to set up and can be effective in a variety of fishing situations.
Here are some step-by-step instructions for how to rig a three-way walleye rig:
- Start by tying a swivel to the end of your fishing line.
- Next, tie on a short length of leader material to the other end of the swivel.
- To the end of the leader, tie on a bait hook. You can use any type of bait that you want, but live minnows or leeches are often very effective for walleyes.
- Now take another length of leader material and tie it to the other eye of the swivel. This second leader should be about twice as long as the first one.
- To the end of this second leader, tie on a sinker weight. The size and type of weight that you use will depend on the depth of water that you’re fishing in and the current conditions.
- Finally, tie on another bait hook to the end of this second leader. Again, you can use any type of bait that you want but live minnows or leeches are often very effective choices.
Slip-Float Rig
The Slip-Float rig is one of the most versatile walleye rigs, and can be used in a variety of situations. It’s a great option for fishing in deeper water, or when the fish are holding tight to the bottom.
To tie a Slip-Float rig, start by attaching a barrel swivel to the end of your line. Then, tie on a leader of about 18 inches, using a triple overhand knot. Next, attach a slip float to the leader using a slip knot. Finally, tie on a hook of your choice (we recommend using a #4 or #6 hook).
The beauty of the Slip-Float rig is that it can be adjusted to fish at any depth. Simply slide the slip float up or down the leader until it’s at the desired depth. For best results, use live bait such as minnows or nightcrawlers.
The Loten Rig, a modified slip sinker rig
The Loten Rig is a modified slip sinker rig that can be used for three-season walleye fishing. This rig is designed to be used with live bait, such as minnows or leeches, and can be fished in a variety of depths.
To tie the Loten Rig, start by threading a small slip sinker onto your line. Then, tie on a barrel swivel. Next, attach a length of leader material to the swivel, and tie on a hook. Finally, add a second barrel swivel above the hook.
This rig can be fished with either a floating or sinking line. To fish it with a floating line, simply cast it out and allow the bait to drift along with the current. To fish it with a sinking line, use enough weight to get the bait down to the desired depth.
The Loten Rig is an effective rig for walleye fishing during the spring, summer, and fall months. It can be used in deep or shallow water, making it versatile enough to fish in many different situations. Give it a try the next time you go walleye fishing!
Drop-Shot Rig
A drop-shot rig is one of the best walleye rigs for three-season fishing because it is effective in all types of water conditions and can be used to fish a variety of baits. This rig consists of a line with a sinker at the end and a hook above the sinker. The bait is threaded onto the hook and the entire rig is cast into the water. The sinker will hold the rig in place on the bottom while the bait moves around freely, attracting fish.
This rig is most effective when fishing in deep water or around structure, such as reefs or sunken logs. The bait stays close to the bottom where the fish are feeding, and the weight of the sinker keeps the bait down even when currents are strong. Drop-shot rigs can be used with live bait or artificial lures, making them versatile and effective in any situation.
The Carolina Float Rig
The Carolina float rig is a versatile and effective walleye rig that can be used in a variety of different fishing situations. This rig is particularly effective in the spring and fall months, when walleye are actively feeding on baitfish.
To fish with a Carolina float rig, simply attach a baitfish (live or dead) to the hook, and cast it out into the water. The bait will then float just above the bottom, where the walleye will be lurking. This rig can be fished with a variety of different baits, including minnows, leeches, and nightcrawlers.
One of the great things about the Carolina float rig is that it can be easily adjusted to fish at different depths. By simply changing the size of the weights used, you can fish anywhere from just under the surface to down deep near the bottom. This makes it an ideal rig for targeting walleye that are relating to different depths throughout the water column.
If you’re looking for a versatile and effective walleye rig that can be used year-round, then look no further than the Carolina float rig!
The Bottom-Bouncer Rig
The Bottom-Bouncer Rig is a versatile rig that can be used for a variety of fish, including walleye. It is a simple rig that consists of a weight, a hook, and a line. The weight is attached to the line and the hook is attached to the weight. The bottom-bouncer rig is designed to keep the bait on or near the bottom while fishing.
This rig is best used with live bait, such as minnows or worms. The bait is hooked onto the hook and the weight is cast out into the water. The bottom-bouncer rig will sink to the bottom and bounce along as it is retrieved. This action will often trigger strikes from walleye that are lurking near the bottom.
The Bottom-Bouncer Rig can also be used with artificial lures, such as crankbaits or jigs. When using artificial lures, it is important to choose a lure that matches the size of the baitfish in the area you are fishing. For example, if you are fishing for walleye in a lake where there are large baitfish, you would want to use a larger lure than you would if you were fishing for walleye in a creek where the baitfish are smaller.
Hildebrandt Hammer Time Walleye Spinner Rig
If you’re looking for a versatile walleye rig that can be effective in a variety of fishing conditions, the Hildebrandt Hammer Time Walleye Spinner Rig is a great option. This rig features a #4 Colorado blade and a size 8 snap swivel, making it perfect for trolling or casting in both deep and shallow water. The hammer-shaped blade creates a unique vibration that is irresistible to walleye, and the bright colors are sure to attract their attention. Whether you’re fishing in open water or around structure, the Hildebrandt Hammer Time Walleye Spinner Rig is an excellent choice for three-season walleye fishing.
Gear up for Walleye Rigging with this List of Essentials
In order to have success while fishing for walleye, you must rig your tackle properly. To help you get started, we’ve put together a list of essential gear that every angler needs for rigging their walleye rigs.
- A good quality rod and reel: This is the most important piece of equipment that you will need for walleye fishing. You want to choose a rod and reel that are designed specifically for walleye fishing. There are many different types and brands of rod and reel on the market, so do your research to find the one that best suits your needs.
- A selection of lures: Lures are what attract the fish to your line, so it’s important to have a good selection. When choosing lures, be sure to select ones that are specifically designed for walleye fishing. Again, there are many different types and brands of lures on the market, so do your research to find the ones that work best in your area.
- A supply of live bait: In addition to lures, you may also want to use live bait when fishing for walleye. The type of live bait you use will depend on what is available in your area. Minnows and nightcrawlers are two of the most popular live baits used for walleye fishing.
11 Best Walleye Rigs for Three-Season Fishing
#1. Galaxy Jig Heads
When it comes to walleye rigs, the Galaxy jig heads are hard to beat. These jig heads have a unique design that creates a natural swimming action that is irresistible to walleye. The Galaxy jig heads are also incredibly versatile and can be used for a variety of different techniques. Whether you’re fishing in open water or in the ice, the Galaxy jig heads are a great choice for walleye rigs.
#2. Gamakatsu Circle Hooks
Walleye fishing is a popular pastime for anglers across the United States. Though the fish can be caught year-round, many walleye fishermen target the fish during the spring, summer, and fall months.
There are a variety of rigs that can be used to target walleye, but some are more effective than others depending on the time of year. For example, during the spring months when walleye are spawning, it’s best to use a rig that will keep your bait close to the bottom where the fish are congregating.
One of the most popular and effective rigs for walleye fishing is known as the “Drift Rig.” This rig consists of a sinker weight attached to the end of your line with a swivel above it. From the other end of the swivel, you’ll attach a leader line that’s about two feet long. To this leader line, you’ll tie on a Gamakatsu Circle Hook.
Circle hooks are designed to hook fish in the corner of their mouths, making them ideal for catch-and-release fishing. They’re also very effective at keeping baits in place without sliding down the leader line like some other types of hooks can.
When using a Drift Rig with a Gamakatsu Circle Hook, simply cast your bait out and let it drift along with the current until you feel a bite.
#3. Northland Lethal Sting’s Hook
In the spring, when walleye are spawning, they can be found in shallow water near shore. This is the time of year when live bait rigs work best. A common rig used for walleye is the Northland Lethal Sting’s Hook. This rig consists of a hook, line and sinker. The hook is baited with a minnow or leech and the sinker is used to weight the rig down so it can be cast into the water.
The Northland Lethal Sting’s Hook is a great choice for springtime walleye fishing because it allows you to fish in shallow water without getting snagged on bottom. The minnow or leech bait will attract walleye that are looking for an easy meal. The sinker weight will help keep your bait in the strike zone longer so you have a better chance of hooking up.
#4. Slip Floats by the fish
Slip floats are a great way to keep your bait near the bottom, where walleye like to feed. There are several types of slip floats, but the fish-shaped ones work best for walleye. You’ll need a bobber stop and some small weights to rig these up.
To rig a slip float, start by threading the line through the float. Tie a knot in the line above the float, then thread on a bobber stop. Add enough weight to the line below the float to keep it upright in the water. You can experiment with different amounts of weight until you find what works best in your fishing spot.
#5. Eagle Claw 8 mm beads
Eagle Claw 8 mm beads are the best walleye rigs for three-season fishing. They are made of high-quality materials and have a unique design that makes them perfect for use in all types of water conditions. The beads are also available in a variety of colors to match your fishing line and lures.
#6. Mimilure Soft Silicone Silicone Float Stops
If you’re looking for a versatile, reliable float stop for all your walleye fishing needs, look no further than the Mimilure Soft Silicone Silicone Float Stops. These stops are made of durable silicone and are designed to keep your bait in place, no matter what the conditions are like. They’re perfect for use in all types of water, from ponds and lakes to rivers and streams. And, they come in a variety of sizes to fit any size line. Whether you’re using live bait or artificial lures, the Mimilure Soft Silicone Silicone Float Stops will help you catch more fish all season long.
#7. Retail Barrel Swivels
If you’re looking for the best walleye rigs for three-season fishing, retail barrel swivels are a great option. These swivels allow you to change your line without having to cut and tie a new knot, which can save you time and frustration when you’re out on the water. Retail barrel swivels also provide extra protection against line twists, making them ideal for use with braided lines.
#8. Lindy No-Snagg Slip Sinker
If you’re looking for a versatile and effective walleye rig, the Lindy No-Snagg Slip Sinker is a great option. This rig is designed to be used with live bait, and features a slip sinker that slides on the line when a fish bites. This allows you to set the hook quickly and easily, without having to worry about the fish swallowing the bait. The No-Snagg Slip Sinker also features a bead chain swivel that prevents line twist, and a snap for easy bait changes.
#9. Brean 3ml Syringe
Assuming you’re referring to a walleye fishing rig, the first thing you need to know is that there are different types of rigs for different purposes. Some rigs are designed for specific techniques, while others can be used for a variety of different techniques. There are also rigs that are better suited for certain types of water and conditions.
When it comes to choosing the best walleye rig for three-season fishing, there are a few things you need to take into consideration. First, you need to decide what type of rig you want. There are two main types of rigs: live bait rigs and artificial lure rigs.
If you’re using live bait, such as minnows or worms, you’ll want to use a live bait rig. These rigs typically consist of a hook, line, and sinker. The hook is baited with the live bait, and the sinker is used to help keep the bait in place and help it stay down in the water column.
If you’re using artificial lures, such as jigs or crankbaits, you’ll want to use an artificial lure rig. These rigs typically consist of a hook, line, and lure. The lure is attached to the hook, and the line is used to reel in the fish once it’s hooked.
Once you’ve decided on the type of rig you want to use, you need to choose the right size hooks and line for the walleyes.
#10. Dr. Fish Oval Foam Floats
There are few things more versatile than a good ol’ foam float. No matter the time of year or water conditions, these little buggers always seem to produce. Dr. Fish oval foam floats are my personal favorite, and I’ve had great success using them for walleye fishing in all three seasons.
In the springtime, I like to use a Dr. Fish float rig with a live minnow under it. The smaller size of the Dr. Fish float is perfect for this application, as it allows me to keep my bait close to the bottom where the walleye are feeding. I also like that the oval shape provides more stability in choppy water conditions.
come summer, I upsize my Dr. Fish float and pair it with a leech or crawler for trolling purposes. This is an incredibly effective way to target walleye that are suspended in mid-depth ranges. The added buoyancy of the larger float helps keep my bait up off the bottom where these fish are often holding.
Finally, in the fall months when the water starts to cool off, I like to fish a Dr. Fish float rig with a small piece of cut bait under it. The added scent and flavor of the cut bait attracts finicky walleye that may not be interested in live bait at this time of year. Plus, the extra weight of the cut bait keeps my float rigged properly in faster moving waters that are common.
#11. Reaction Tackle Bullet/Worm Weighs
There are a few different schools of thought when it comes to the best walleye rigs for three-season fishing. Some anglers swear by live bait rigs, while others prefer to use jigs and artificial lures. And then there are those who like to mix things up, using a combination of both live bait and artificial lures.
No matter what your preference is, one thing is for sure – you need to have the right tackle if you want to be successful in your quest for walleyes. That’s why we’ve put together this guide on the best walleye rigs for three-season fishing. We’ll cover everything from live bait rigs to jigging rigs, so you can find the perfect setup for your next fishing trip.
Last Thoughts
We hope you enjoyed our article on the best walleye rigs for three-season fishing. As we mentioned, there are many different ways to rig a walleye, and each has its own benefits. Experiment with different techniques and find the one that works best for you. And always remember to have fun while you’re out on the water!