As the summer months come to a close, many anglers eagerly anticipate the fall season, knowing that it brings with it some of the best walleye fishing of the year. The cooling water temperatures and changing baitfish patterns make it an ideal time to target these elusive fish. With the right tackle and techniques, anglers can experience some truly exceptional fishing, reeling in walleye after walleye. However, choosing the right lures can be a daunting task, especially for those new to walleye fishing. This is where the best fall walleye lures come into play, helping anglers to increase their chances of landing a prized catch.
The fall season presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities for walleye anglers, as the fish begin to migrate to shallower waters and feed more aggressively. To capitalize on this, anglers need to be equipped with a range of lures that can effectively imitate the baitfish and other prey that walleye are feeding on. From crankbaits and spinners to jigs and soft plastics, there are many different types of lures that can be effective for fall walleye fishing. In this article, we will take a closer look at some of the most effective lures for targeting walleye during the fall season, providing anglers with the information they need to make informed decisions and catch more fish. Whether you are a seasoned veteran or just starting out, this guide is designed to help you make the most of the fall walleye fishing season.
Before we get into the review of the best fall walleye lures, here are some related products from Amazon to explore:
Last update on 2026-01-16 / Affiliate links / Paid Links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Fall Walleye Lures Overview
As the seasons change and summer gives way to fall, walleye behavior and habitats also shift. During this time, walleye tend to move towards deeper waters and structure, making them more challenging to locate and catch. However, with the right knowledge and tackle, anglers can still have a successful and enjoyable fishing experience.
In the fall, walleye are often found near structural elements such as rocks, weeds, and drop-offs, where they can ambush prey and hide from predators. To effectively target these areas, anglers need to choose lures that can reach the desired depths and imitate the walleye’s natural food sources. This may include using jigs, crankbaits, and spinner rigs, which can be presented in a variety of ways to entice a strike.
When selecting lures for fall walleye fishing, it’s essential to consider the water conditions, walleye behavior, and the types of baitfish present in the area. By choosing the right combination of lure, presentation, and location, anglers can increase their chances of catching walleye and making the most of their time on the water. Whether fishing from a boat or from shore, having a well-stocked tackle box with a variety of lures can help anglers adapt to changing conditions and stay on top of the action.
By understanding the habits and habitats of fall walleye and using the best fall walleye lures, anglers can experience the thrill of reeling in these prized game fish. With a little practice and patience, anyone can become proficient in catching walleye during the fall season, and enjoy the many rewards that this exciting and challenging type of fishing has to offer. Whether a seasoned pro or just starting out, the right lures and techniques can make all the difference in a successful and enjoyable fall walleye fishing trip.
Top 5 Best Fall Walleye Lures
The
1 – Rapala Shad Rap SR07
is a versatile and highly effective lure for catching fall walleye. Its shad-like profile and enticing action make it a favorite among walleye anglers. The SR07 model is particularly well-suited for fall fishing, as its slow to medium retrieve speed allows it to mimic the natural movement of baitfish in the cooler water temperatures of the season.
The
1 – Rapala Shad Rap SR07
is also incredibly durable, with a sturdy construction that can withstand the rigors of repeated casting and retrieving. Its realistic paint job and internal rattle system also help to attract walleye from a distance, making it a great choice for searching out schools of fish in the fall. Whether you’re fishing in shallow rocks or deep structure, the
1 – Rapala Shad Rap SR07
is a lure that can be relied upon to produce results.
The
2 – Storm Thunderstick TS09
is another top-notch lure for catching fall walleye. Its slender profile and weighted tail allow it to dive quickly and maintain a consistent depth, making it perfect for targeting walleye in the 10-20 foot range. The TS09 model is also equipped with a unique sound chamber that emits a loud, pulsing noise that helps to attract walleye from a distance.
The
2 – Storm Thunderstick TS09
is also highly versatile, and can be fished using a variety of different retrieves and presentations. Whether you’re using a slow and steady retrieve or a more aggressive, jerkbait-style presentation, the
2 – Storm Thunderstick TS09
is a lure that can be adapted to fit your specific fishing style and the conditions of the water you’re fishing in. With its durable construction and attractive action, the
2 – Storm Thunderstick TS09
is a must-have lure for any serious walleye angler.
The
3 – Northland Tackle Buck-Shot Rattle Jig BSRJ03
is a highly effective lure for catching fall walleye, particularly in rocky or structural areas. Its weighted head and curved hook allow it to bounce and deflect off the bottom, making it perfect for fishing in areas with a lot of cover and debris. The BSRJ03 model is also equipped with a unique rattle system that helps to attract walleye from a distance.
The
3 – Northland Tackle Buck-Shot Rattle Jig BSRJ03
is also highly durable, with a sturdy construction that can withstand the rigors of repeated casting and retrieving. Its realistic paint job and internal rattle system also help to attract walleye, making it a great choice for searching out schools of fish in the fall. Whether you’re fishing in shallow rocks or deep structure, the
3 – Northland Tackle Buck-Shot Rattle Jig BSRJ03
is a lure that can be relied upon to produce results.
The
4 – Lindy Flicker Shad FS05
is a top-notch lure for catching fall walleye, particularly in open water areas. Its slender profile and weighted tail allow it to dive quickly and maintain a consistent depth, making it perfect for targeting walleye in the 10-20 foot range. The FS05 model is also equipped with a unique flicker tail that helps to attract walleye from a distance.
The
4 – Lindy Flicker Shad FS05
is also highly versatile, and can be fished using a variety of different retrieves and presentations. Whether you’re using a slow and steady retrieve or a more aggressive, jerkbait-style presentation, the
4 – Lindy Flicker Shad FS05
is a lure that can be adapted to fit your specific fishing style and the conditions of the water you’re fishing in. With its durable construction and attractive action, the
4 – Lindy Flicker Shad FS05
is a must-have lure for any serious walleye angler.
The
5 – Berkley Flicker Minnow FM09
is a highly effective lure for catching fall walleye, particularly in areas with a lot of vegetation or cover. Its slender profile and weighted tail allow it to dive quickly and maintain a consistent depth, making it perfect for targeting walleye in the 10-20 foot range. The FM09 model is also equipped with a unique flicker tail that helps to attract walleye from a distance.
The
5 – Berkley Flicker Minnow FM09
is also highly durable, with a sturdy construction that can withstand the rigors of repeated casting and retrieving. Its realistic paint job and internal rattle system also help to attract walleye, making it a great choice for searching out schools of fish in the fall. Whether you’re fishing in shallow rocks or deep structure, the
5 – Berkley Flicker Minnow FM09
is a lure that can be relied upon to produce results.
Why People Need to Buy Fall Walleye Lures
As the seasons change and summer gives way to autumn, many anglers begin to prepare for the fall fishing season. This time of year can be particularly exciting for those who enjoy targeting walleye, as the cooler water temperatures and changing fish behavior can make for some exceptional fishing opportunities. However, in order to take full advantage of these opportunities, it’s essential to have the right tackle and lures.
One of the key reasons people need to buy fall walleye lures is that the fish are often more active and aggressive during this time of year. As the water cools, walleye tend to move into shallower areas and feed more heavily, making them more susceptible to a variety of lures and presentations. By having a selection of effective lures on hand, anglers can increase their chances of catching these fish and making the most of the fall fishing season.
When it comes to choosing the right lures for fall walleye fishing, there are a number of factors to consider. The type of lure, its size and color, and the way it’s presented can all play a critical role in determining its effectiveness. Some of the best fall walleye lures include jigs, crankbaits, and spinners, which can be used to imitate a variety of baitfish and other prey species. By experimenting with different lures and presentations, anglers can develop a better understanding of what works best in their local fishery.
In addition to the technical aspects of fall walleye fishing, having the right lures can also make the experience more enjoyable and rewarding. There’s nothing quite like the thrill of feeling a big walleye bite, and having a selection of effective lures on hand can help make this experience a reality. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or just starting out, investing in a few key lures can make a big difference in your success on the water, and help you make the most of the fall fishing season.
Understanding Fall Walleye Behavior
Fall walleye behavior is crucial in determining the best lures to use during this season. As the water temperature cools, walleyes tend to move to deeper areas with more abundant food sources. This shift in behavior requires anglers to adjust their fishing strategies and choose lures that can effectively reach and attract walleyes in these deeper waters. The type of structure and cover present in the fishing location also plays a significant role in determining the most effective lures. For instance, rocky structures and weed beds can be home to a variety of baitfish, making crankbaits and spinner rigs more effective.
In addition to understanding the physical environment, it’s essential to consider the walleye’s feeding behavior during the fall. As the days shorten and water temperatures decrease, walleyes tend to feed more aggressively, making them more susceptible to lures that mimic their natural prey. This knowledge can help anglers select the most effective lures and presentations to use during the fall season. By combining an understanding of walleye behavior with the right lures and techniques, anglers can increase their chances of a successful catch.
The fall season also brings changes in water clarity, which can impact the effectiveness of different lures. In clearer waters, lures with a more subtle presentation may be more effective, while in murkier waters, brighter and more aggressive lures may be needed to attract walleyes. By taking these factors into account, anglers can make informed decisions about the best lures to use and how to present them to increase their chances of catching walleyes.
As the fall season progresses, walleyes may also begin to migrate to areas with more abundant food sources, such as river mouths or areas with significant baitfish populations. Anglers who can identify and target these areas can increase their chances of catching walleyes. By understanding the migration patterns and behavior of walleyes during the fall, anglers can develop effective strategies for targeting these fish and selecting the most effective lures.
Choosing the Right Lure Action
The action of a lure refers to the way it moves through the water, and this can be a critical factor in determining its effectiveness for catching walleyes. Different lures have unique actions, ranging from the subtle vibration of a jig to the aggressive wobble of a crankbait. The right lure action can help to attract walleyes and trigger strikes, while the wrong action can leave anglers frustrated and empty-handed.
In the fall, walleyes often respond well to lures with a slower, more subtle action. This can be due to the cooler water temperatures, which can make walleyes less aggressive and more finicky. Lures with a slow, steady action, such as a jig or a slow-moving crankbait, can be particularly effective in these conditions. However, in areas with abundant baitfish or other attractors, a more aggressive lure action may be needed to stand out and attract walleyes.
The action of a lure can also be influenced by the retrieval speed and technique used by the angler. A slow and steady retrieval can help to create a more subtle action, while a faster retrieval can create a more aggressive action. By experimenting with different retrieval speeds and techniques, anglers can find the right action to trigger strikes from walleyes. Additionally, the action of a lure can be affected by the type of line and tackle used, with lighter lines and tackle often producing a more subtle action.
In addition to the action of the lure itself, the overall presentation can also play a critical role in determining its effectiveness. This includes factors such as the depth at which the lure is presented, the speed and angle of the retrieval, and the presence of any attractors or trailers. By carefully considering these factors and selecting the right lure action, anglers can increase their chances of catching walleyes and make the most of their time on the water.
Lure Color and Pattern Selection
The color and pattern of a lure can be a critical factor in determining its effectiveness for catching walleyes. Different colors and patterns can be more or less effective in different water conditions and at different times of the year. In the fall, walleyes often respond well to lures with natural colors and patterns, such as shad or baitfish imitations. These lures can be particularly effective in clearer waters, where walleyes can see and inspect the lure more easily.
In murkier waters, brighter and more aggressive colors may be needed to attract walleyes. Lures with fluorescent or glow-in-the-dark finishes can be particularly effective in these conditions, as they can help to increase the visibility of the lure and attract walleyes from a distance. Additionally, lures with a strong contrast between light and dark colors can be effective in a variety of water conditions, as they can help to create a visual trigger that attracts walleyes.
The pattern of a lure can also be an important factor in determining its effectiveness. Lures with a realistic baitfish or shad pattern can be particularly effective, as they can help to mimic the natural prey of walleyes. Other patterns, such as a crawdad or leech imitation, can also be effective in certain situations. By selecting the right color and pattern, anglers can increase the effectiveness of their lures and make the most of their time on the water.
In addition to the color and pattern of the lure itself, the overall presentation can also play a critical role in determining its effectiveness. This includes factors such as the type of attractors or trailers used, the speed and angle of the retrieval, and the depth at which the lure is presented. By carefully considering these factors and selecting the right color and pattern, anglers can increase their chances of catching walleyes and make the most of their time on the water.
Presenting Lures at the Right Depth
The depth at which a lure is presented can be a critical factor in determining its effectiveness for catching walleyes. Walleyes are often found in specific depth ranges, depending on the time of year, water temperature, and availability of food. In the fall, walleyes often move to deeper areas with more abundant food sources, making it essential to present lures at the right depth to reach them.
The type of structure and cover present in the fishing location can also play a significant role in determining the most effective presentation depth. For instance, rocky structures and weed beds can be home to a variety of baitfish, making it essential to present lures at the right depth to reach these areas. By using a combination of depth finders, fishing charts, and local knowledge, anglers can determine the most effective presentation depth and increase their chances of catching walleyes.
In addition to the presentation depth, the overall presentation can also play a critical role in determining the effectiveness of a lure. This includes factors such as the speed and angle of the retrieval, the type of attractors or trailers used, and the action of the lure itself. By carefully considering these factors and presenting lures at the right depth, anglers can increase their chances of catching walleyes and make the most of their time on the water.
The presentation depth can also be influenced by the type of lure being used. For instance, crankbaits and spinner rigs are often more effective when presented at a specific depth range, while jigs and live bait rigs can be effective at a variety of depths. By selecting the right lure and presenting it at the right depth, anglers can increase the effectiveness of their lures and make the most of their time on the water.
Best Fall Walleye Lures Buying Guide
When it comes to catching walleye during the fall season, having the right lures can make all the difference. With so many options available on the market, choosing the best fall walleye lures can be overwhelming, especially for beginners. In this buying guide, we will discuss the key factors to consider when selecting the perfect lures for your next walleye fishing trip.
Type of Lure
The type of lure is one of the most critical factors to consider when buying walleye lures. There are various types of lures available, including crankbaits, spinners, jigs, and spoons. Each type of lure has its unique characteristics and is designed to target walleye in different ways. Crankbaits, for example, are designed to mimic baitfish and are often used to target walleye in deeper waters. Spinners, on the other hand, are designed to create a flashing motion that attracts walleye.
When choosing the type of lure, it’s essential to consider the fishing conditions and the time of day. For example, during the fall season, walleye tend to move to shallower waters, making crankbaits and spinners more effective. It’s also important to consider the color and pattern of the lure, as walleye can be attracted to specific colors and patterns. By choosing the right type of lure, you can increase your chances of catching walleye and making your fishing trip more successful.
Lure Size
The size of the lure is another critical factor to consider when buying walleye lures. The size of the lure will depend on the type of fishing you’re doing and the size of the walleye you’re targeting. Generally, larger lures are more effective for targeting larger walleye, while smaller lures are better for targeting smaller walleye. It’s also important to consider the action of the lure, as larger lures tend to have a more aggressive action that can attract larger walleye.
When choosing the size of the lure, it’s essential to consider the fishing conditions and the type of structure you’re fishing. For example, when fishing in rocky or weedy areas, larger lures can be more effective at attracting walleye. On the other hand, when fishing in open waters, smaller lures can be more effective at targeting walleye. By choosing the right size of lure, you can increase your chances of catching walleye and making your fishing trip more successful.
Lure Color
The color of the lure is a critical factor to consider when buying walleye lures. Walleye can be attracted to a wide range of colors, including natural colors such as baitfish patterns and shad colors, as well as brighter colors such as orange and chartreuse. The color of the lure will depend on the fishing conditions and the time of day. For example, during the fall season, walleye tend to be attracted to more muted colors such as brown and green.
When choosing the color of the lure, it’s essential to consider the water conditions and the type of structure you’re fishing. For example, when fishing in clear waters, more natural colors can be more effective at attracting walleye. On the other hand, when fishing in murky waters, brighter colors can be more effective at attracting walleye. By choosing the right color of lure, you can increase your chances of catching walleye and making your fishing trip more successful.
Lure Action
The action of the lure is a critical factor to consider when buying walleye lures. The action of the lure refers to the way it moves through the water, and can include actions such as wobbling, spinning, and vibrating. Different types of lures have different actions, and the action of the lure can be critical in attracting walleye. For example, crankbaits have a wobbling action that mimics the movement of a baitfish, while spinners have a spinning action that creates a flashing motion.
When choosing the action of the lure, it’s essential to consider the fishing conditions and the type of structure you’re fishing. For example, when fishing in rocky or weedy areas, lures with a more aggressive action can be more effective at attracting walleye. On the other hand, when fishing in open waters, lures with a more subtle action can be more effective at targeting walleye. By choosing the right action of lure, you can increase your chances of catching walleye and making your fishing trip more successful.
Lure Material
The material of the lure is a critical factor to consider when buying walleye lures. The material of the lure can affect its durability, action, and attractiveness to walleye. For example, lures made from plastic or resin can be more durable and resistant to damage, while lures made from metal or wood can have a more natural action and attractiveness to walleye. It’s also important to consider the weight of the lure, as heavier lures can sink faster and reach deeper waters.
When choosing the material of the lure, it’s essential to consider the fishing conditions and the type of structure you’re fishing. For example, when fishing in rocky or weedy areas, lures made from durable materials such as plastic or resin can be more effective at withstanding damage. On the other hand, when fishing in open waters, lures made from lighter materials such as metal or wood can be more effective at targeting walleye. By choosing the right material of lure, you can increase your chances of catching walleye and making your fishing trip more successful.
Brand and Price
The brand and price of the lure are critical factors to consider when buying the best fall walleye lures. There are many different brands of walleye lures available on the market, and the price can vary widely depending on the brand, quality, and type of lure. Generally, higher-priced lures are made from higher-quality materials and have a more realistic action and attractiveness to walleye. However, it’s not always necessary to buy the most expensive lures, as many affordable options can be just as effective.
When choosing the brand and price of the lure, it’s essential to consider your budget and the type of fishing you’re doing. For example, if you’re a beginner, it may be more cost-effective to start with a lower-priced lure and work your way up to more expensive options as you gain more experience. On the other hand, if you’re an experienced angler, you may be willing to invest in higher-priced lures that offer more advanced features and better performance. By choosing the right brand and price of lure, you can increase your chances of catching walleye and making your fishing trip more successful.
FAQs
What are the best fall walleye lures for beginners?
The best fall walleye lures for beginners are typically those that are easy to use and require minimal setup. These lures usually imitate the natural baitfish that walleye feed on during the fall season, such as minnows or shad. Some popular options for beginners include jigging spoons, crankbaits, and spinner rigs. These lures are often designed to mimic the appearance and movement of injured baitfish, which can be very appealing to hungry walleye.
When choosing a lure as a beginner, it’s essential to consider the specific fishing conditions and the type of water you’ll be fishing in. For example, if you’re fishing in a lake with a lot of vegetation, a weedless lure may be a good choice to prevent snagging. On the other hand, if you’re fishing in a river with strong currents, a lure with a lot of weight and action may be more effective. By selecting the right lure for the conditions and using it correctly, beginners can increase their chances of catching walleye during the fall season.
How do I choose the right color for my fall walleye lure?
Choosing the right color for your fall walleye lure depends on several factors, including the time of day, water clarity, and the type of forage that walleye are feeding on. In general, it’s a good idea to use lures that mimic the natural colors of the baitfish that walleye are feeding on. For example, if walleye are feeding on shad, a lure with a shad-like pattern or color may be effective. Other popular colors for fall walleye lures include orange, chartreuse, and glow-in-the-dark patterns.
In addition to considering the type of forage that walleye are feeding on, it’s also essential to think about the water conditions and the time of day. For example, in low-light conditions or dirty water, a lure with a lot of contrast and visibility may be more effective. On the other hand, in clear water or during the daytime, a more subtle and natural-colored lure may be a better choice. By selecting a lure with the right color and pattern, anglers can increase their chances of catching walleye during the fall season.
What is the best type of jig to use for fall walleye fishing?
The best type of jig to use for fall walleye fishing depends on the specific fishing conditions and the type of presentation you’re trying to achieve. Some popular options include swim jigs, jigging spoons, and live-bait jigs. Swim jigs are often used to imitate injured baitfish and can be effective when retrieved quickly through the water. Jigging spoons, on the other hand, are often used to target walleye that are suspended in the water column or holding near structure.
When choosing a jig for fall walleye fishing, it’s essential to consider the weight and action of the jig. A jig with a lot of weight and action can be effective in strong currents or when fishing deep water. On the other hand, a lighter jig with a more subtle action may be better suited for fishing in shallow water or when targeting walleye that are holding near the bottom. By selecting the right type of jig and using it correctly, anglers can increase their chances of catching walleye during the fall season.
Can I use live bait for fall walleye fishing?
Yes, live bait can be very effective for fall walleye fishing. In fact, many anglers prefer to use live bait during the fall season because it can be more appealing to walleye than artificial lures. Some popular live baits for walleye include minnows, leeches, and nightcrawlers. These baits can be used on a variety of rigs, including jig heads, live-bait rigs, and slip bobbers.
When using live bait for fall walleye fishing, it’s essential to choose the right type of bait and present it correctly. For example, if you’re using minnows, it’s often best to use a small to medium-sized minnow and hook it lightly through the lips or dorsal fin. This will allow the minnow to move naturally and attract the attention of nearby walleye. By using live bait correctly and presenting it in the right location, anglers can increase their chances of catching walleye during the fall season.
How do I fish a crankbait for fall walleye?
Fishing a crankbait for fall walleye involves retrieving the lure at a steady pace and depth to imitate the movement of an injured baitfish. The specific retrieval speed and depth will depend on the type of crankbait you’re using and the fishing conditions. In general, it’s a good idea to start by retrieving the crankbait slowly and steadily, and then adjusting the speed and depth based on the response of the walleye.
When fishing a crankbait for fall walleye, it’s also essential to pay attention to the action of the lure and the structure you’re fishing. For example, if you’re fishing a rocky shoreline, you may want to use a crankbait that dives quickly and has a lot of action to imitate the movement of a baitfish darting through the rocks. On the other hand, if you’re fishing a sandy flat, a crankbait with a more subtle action may be more effective. By fishing a crankbait correctly and presenting it in the right location, anglers can increase their chances of catching walleye during the fall season.
What are the best fall walleye lures for trolling?
The best fall walleye lures for trolling depend on the specific fishing conditions and the type of presentation you’re trying to achieve. Some popular options include crankbaits, spinners, and spoons. Crankbaits are often used to imitate the movement of injured baitfish and can be effective when trolled at a steady pace and depth. Spinners, on the other hand, are often used to create a lot of flash and vibration in the water, which can attract the attention of nearby walleye.
When choosing a lure for trolling, it’s essential to consider the depth and speed at which you’ll be fishing. For example, if you’re trolling in deep water, you may want to use a lure that dives quickly and has a lot of action to reach the walleye. On the other hand, if you’re trolling in shallow water, a lure with a more subtle action may be more effective. By selecting the right lure and presenting it correctly, anglers can increase their chances of catching walleye while trolling during the fall season.
How do I store and maintain my fall walleye lures?
Storing and maintaining your fall walleye lures is essential to ensure they continue to perform well and last for a long time. After each use, it’s a good idea to rinse your lures with fresh water and dry them thoroughly to prevent rust and corrosion. You should also store your lures in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture.
When storing your lures, it’s a good idea to organize them by type and size, and to keep them in a protective case or container. This will help prevent damage and make it easier to find the lure you need when you’re getting ready to fish. Additionally, you should regularly inspect your lures for damage or wear, and replace them as needed. By properly storing and maintaining your fall walleye lures, you can ensure they continue to perform well and help you catch more walleye during the fall season.
Final Words
As the fall season approaches, anglers are eagerly preparing for another exciting walleye fishing experience. With the numerous options available in the market, selecting the right lures can be a daunting task, especially for beginners. However, by considering factors such as water conditions, walleye behavior, and lure characteristics, anglers can increase their chances of landing a big catch. The key to a successful fall walleye fishing trip lies in understanding the nuances of walleye behavior and using the right tackle to lure them in.
In conclusion, the best fall walleye lures play a crucial role in determining the success of a fishing trip. By choosing the right combination of lures and presentation techniques, anglers can capitalize on the walleye’s aggressive behavior during the fall season. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or just starting out, investing in high-quality lures and taking the time to understand walleye behavior will undoubtedly pay off in the long run. With the right knowledge and equipment, you’ll be well on your way to landing a trophy catch, making your fall walleye fishing experience an unforgettable one.