Walleye Fish in Lake Superior

The walleye (Sander vitreus), also known as the yellow pike or walleyed pike, is a prized freshwater gamefish found in various bodies of water across North America, including Lake Superior. The walleye fish is known for its delicious flavor, firm texture, and challenging behavior. The walleye holds a special place in the hearts of anglers and plays a significant role in the ecosystem of Lake Superior. The walleye fish may also be referred to as a grass pike, glasseye, perchpike, dory, or jack.

walleye fish illustration — Walleye image courtesy NOAA Great Lakes Environmental Research Laboratory

Scientific Classification:

Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Perciformes
Family: Percidae
Genus: Sander
Species: Sander vitreus

The walleye is characterized by its elongated body, golden-olive coloration, and distinctive marble-like pattern. It derives its name from the pearlescent appearance of its eyes, which exhibit a reflective layer called the tapetum lucidum, enhancing its low-light vision. Walleye typically grow to lengths of 12 to 18 inches in Lake Superior, although individuals exceeding 30 inches are not uncommon. They possess sharp teeth and spiny dorsal fins, contributing to their predatory prowess.

Table of Contents

Where do Walleye Fish Live in Lake Superior?

Walleye in Lake Superior inhabit a variety of habitats, including rocky reefs, shallow bays, and submerged structures such as shipwrecks and sunken logs. They are often found near drop-offs and underwater ledges, where they ambush prey such as perch, cisco, and smelt.

While not as abundant in Lake Superior as in some other Great Lakes, walleye can be found throughout the lake, with concentrations in certain areas favored for spawning and feeding. The St. Louis River, which flows directly into Lake Superior houses the largest Walleye population in the great lake, according to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR).

How Long do Walleyes Live and Where?

Walleyes live an average of 7 years. Older specimens have been caught, but older walleyes are not common.

“The serious angler will kiss sleep and a suntan goodbye to pursue walleye: Dawn, dusk and after dark in May, June and October are the best times to fish for this underwater night owl.”
Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR)

What is the Walleye Fish Life Cycle?

Spawning typically occurs in the spring when water temperatures reach the optimal range of 42 to 50°F (5.5 to 10°C). Walleye migrate to shallow, rocky areas along the shoreline or tributary rivers to deposit their eggs. Male walleye fertilize the eggs externally, and the adhesive nature of the eggs allows them to adhere to the substrate until they hatch in approximately two to four weeks. Young walleye, known as fry, feed on zooplankton and gradually transition to a diet of small fish and insects as they grow.

walleye fish spawn — Walleye spawn image courtesy NOAA Great Lakes Environmental Research Laboratory

Migration and Spawning Patterns of Walleye Fish in Lake Superior

Walleye fish in Lake Superior exhibit fascinating migration and spawning behaviors as part of their life cycle, contributing to the dynamics of the lake’s ecosystem and offering anglers unique opportunities for fishing. Understanding these patterns is crucial for the conservation and management of walleye populations.

Walleye Spawning Migration

In the spring, as temperatures begin to rise and daylight hours lengthen, walleye undertake spawning migrations from deeper waters to shallower areas along the shoreline or tributary rivers of Lake Superior. These migrations are triggered by environmental cues such as water temperature and photoperiod, signaling the onset of the spawning season.

Selection of Walleye Spawning Sites

Walleye are selective in choosing spawning sites, preferring rocky or gravelly substrates with moderate water flow. These areas provide suitable conditions for egg deposition and protection against predators. Spawning sites are often located in nearshore areas, such as rocky reefs, points, and shoals, where walleye gather in large numbers to reproduce.

Walleye Spawning Behavior

During spawning, female walleye release their eggs into the water, while male walleye simultaneously release sperm to fertilize the eggs externally. This process typically occurs during the cover of darkness, as walleye are nocturnal feeders and exhibit increased activity during nighttime hours. The adhesive nature of the eggs allows them to adhere to the substrate, where they develop and hatch into larvae.

Post-Spawning Migration

After spawning, walleye may remain in the vicinity of spawning grounds for a brief period before returning to deeper waters to resume their feeding activities. Some individuals may undertake secondary migrations, moving to different areas of the lake in search of optimal foraging habitats. Walleye in Lake Superior are known to exhibit seasonal movements, with fluctuations in distribution influenced by factors such as water temperature, prey availability, and spawning activity.

Homing Behavior

Walleye demonstrate remarkable homing behavior, returning to the same spawning sites year after year with remarkable precision. This homing instinct is thought to be guided by a combination of sensory cues, including olfactory signals and memory of familiar landmarks. The ability of walleye to navigate back to their natal spawning grounds ensures the continuity of spawning populations and the amount of walleye present in Lake Superior.

Fishing for Walleye

Walleye fishing is a popular pastime in Lake Superior, attracting anglers from far and wide seeking to test their skills against this elusive predator. Anglers employ various techniques to target walleye, including trolling with crankbaits or spinner rigs, jigging with live bait or artificial lures, and drift fishing along rocky shorelines. Dawn and dusk are often considered prime times to catch walleye, as these nocturnal predators are more active during low-light conditions. In fact, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) states that, “The serious angler will kiss sleep and a suntan goodbye to pursue walleye: Dawn, dusk and after dark in May, June and October are the best times to fish for this underwater night owl.”

Are Walleyes Endangered in Lake Superior?

The walleye fish is a prized inhabitant of Lake Superior, revered for its culinary appeal and sporting challenge. While walleye populations in Lake Superior are generally stable, conservation efforts are essential to ensure their long-term sustainability. Measures such as habitat restoration, stocking programs, and regulations on harvest limits help maintain healthy walleye populations and preserve the ecological balance of the lake and ensure that future generations can continue to enjoy the thrill of pursuing this iconic freshwater gamefish.