Increasingly warm temperatures trigger major snowmelt and run-off, generally bolstered by spring rains, which create a major influx of water into the river. Water level and current velocity increase significantly. Current is swift and strong in most midriver areas, often precluding their use by walleyes. Significant current breaks are generally smaller, more distinct, and usually associated with major shoreline features. Emphasis now shifts to precision boat control or casting tactics while placing jigs or other lures exactly along the edges of current seams; there's little room for error. Walleyes generally avoid areas of major current. So should you.
Turbulent areas directly below dams often lose their punch at this time; walleyes seem to have disappeared. Basically, the fish have tucked tighter to shore, often moving downstream a bit to areas where swift current dissipates. Backwater channels take on increased importance under these conditions. Formerly too shallow and slack to host walleyes, the added depth and current now make them more attractive.
The average walleye angler's natural fear of snagging and losing jigs in wood cover causes a reluctance to fish tight to flooded wood. But that's often what it takes to catch fish in high water. Control-drifting jigs along the outer edges of flooded brush or trees, or pitching weedless jigs up into open lanes in the flooded forest, can be extremely productive when traditional tactics fail. Not easy fishing, but might be the best alternative during the early stages of flooding, which often accompany the transition from prespawn to active spawning, particularly if walleye activity is focused in 3 to 12 feet of water in and around flooded cover.
HOW CHANGING CURRENT APPLIES TO 'EYES ON THE RISE
In summary, walleyes typically (1) focus in midriver locations during winter and early spring low-flow conditions; (2) move increasingly toward areas of reduced flow or current edges formed by shoreline-related current breaks as the water rises during mid to late spring; and (3) may penetrate the normal river perimeter into cover should banks flood during spring high water. Follow the fish as they shift locations, tailor your presentations to depth and current flow, and continue to catch them throughout the transition from winter to spring. Eventually, high water may enable walleyes to move so far into flooded cover that reaching them becomes impossible until the water drops. But until or unless that occurs, spring fishing continues excellent as the water rises. Rise to the occasion, just as the sunrise welcomes each new day on the river.
