Walleye, the holy grail of game fish: on catching them, understanding their biology and history, and ensuring their survival Among the more than 34,000 species of fish, few have the walleye’s following—among anglers and diners, states conferring official status on the fish, and towns battling for recognition as the Walleye Capital of the World. And among those passionate fans, few know the walleye as well as Paul J. Radomski does—a fisheries biologist, lake ecology scientist, and old fisherman. In Walleye: A Beautiful Fish of the Dark he unspools the mysteries of this fascinating fish. Radomski looks at walleye from every angle, with something to say to the curious naturalist, committed ecologist, and avid fishing enthusiast. People who view walleye as the “lion of the lakes” might be surprised to learn that rivers are their ancestral habitat. Some might wonder about the name “wall-eye,” a nod to an evolutionary adaptation to dark water environments. Others might simply ask: why walleye? What are they, where do they exist, how do they survive, and how have people come to depend on them? Radomski discusses the principles and pitfalls of managing this predator of the twilight (and the history and methods of doing so) and shares his informed perspective on when and where stocking is prudent. Finally, he explores three of the best walleye lakes: Winnebago, the largest inland walleye fishery in Wisconsin, and Mille Lacs and Red Lake in Minnesota. From the simple pleasures of fishing for walleye to the most pressing questions about how this species survives, this book is the best word on this beautiful fish of the dark.

More than any other gamefish, walleyes have the reputation of being finicky and hard to find. While this is sometimes true, you can greatly improve your 'luck' by learning the proven strategies and techniques contained in this book. Learn to rig your boat, choose the right rods, reels, lines and lures, and how to use the latest electronics. The combination of underwater, overhead, and how-to photography makes it easier than ever to understand the basics of catching walleye. Even if the fish are hiding in the weeds or the weather isn't ideal, this book will improve your success on the water.

A complete guide to fishing walleyes anywhere from St. Lawrence to the Columbia River, and from the Canadian north to the canyon reservoirs of the Southwest.