Many states allow year-round walleye fishing, but some enforce seasonal closures. The following states have established walleye fishing seasons and regulations:
- Midwest & Great Lakes: Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio
- Plains & West: North Dakota, South Dakota, Nebraska, Montana, Wyoming, Colorado
- Northeast: New York, Pennsylvania, Vermont, Maine, West Virginia
- South & Other Regions: Missouri, Kentucky, Tennessee, North Carolina
Top 20 Ranked States for Walleye Fishing
This ranking is based on factors like fish populations, trophy potential, angler access, and fishing success rates.
- Minnesota – Home to legendary walleye waters like Mille Lacs, Lake of the Woods, and Leech Lake.
- South Dakota – Lake Oahe, Lake Sharpe, and the Missouri River offer world-class fishing.
- North Dakota – Devils Lake and the Missouri River produce consistent big catches.
- Wisconsin – Green Bay, Lake Winnebago, and the Wisconsin River are prime spots.
- Michigan – Saginaw Bay, Lake Erie, and the Detroit River provide exceptional walleye action.
- Ohio – Lake Erie’s Western Basin is one of the best walleye fisheries in the world.
- Montana – Fort Peck Reservoir is famous for its trophy walleye.
- Iowa – The Mississippi River and Spirit Lake offer great walleye opportunities.
- Nebraska – Merritt Reservoir, Lake McConaughy, and the Missouri River hold quality walleye.
- New York – Lake Erie and Oneida Lake are top walleye fisheries.
- Illinois – The Illinois River and Lake Shelbyville produce strong walleye numbers.
- Pennsylvania – Lake Erie, Pymatuning Reservoir, and the Allegheny River offer great fishing.
- Indiana – The St. Joseph River and Brookville Lake provide solid walleye populations.
- Colorado – Cherry Creek Reservoir, Chatfield Lake, and Pueblo Reservoir.
- Wyoming – Boysen Reservoir and Glendo Reservoir are walleye havens.
- Missouri – Stockton Lake and Lake of the Ozarks have solid walleye populations.
- Kentucky – The Cumberland River tailwaters provide overlooked walleye fishing.
- West Virginia – Tygart Lake and Cheat Lake hold decent walleye numbers.
- Tennessee – Norris Lake and Dale Hollow Reservoir offer deep-water walleye fishing.
- North Carolina – Lake Fontana and Hiwassee Lake have small but healthy walleye populations.
by WalleyeTelevision.com staff
