Walleye fishing on the Columbia River is an exciting and rewarding experience, especially at night when these elusive fish are more active. For anglers who want to up their game, night fishing can be an entirely new and thrilling challenge. The quiet of the river, the cooler temperatures, and the increased chances of catching walleye make night fishing a popular choice among seasoned fishers. If you’re looking to experience the thrill of night walleye fishing on the Columbia River, this guide will give you all the tips and tricks to get started.
Why Fish for Walleye at Night?
Walleye are naturally more active in low light conditions. Their eyes are adapted to see better in dim light, giving them a hunting advantage at dawn, dusk, and nighttime. This makes night fishing an ideal time to target them. During the day, walleye often remain deep or close to structure, making them harder to locate. However, as the sun sets, they venture out to feed more aggressively, and anglers can find them in shallower waters, making them easier to catch.
Another advantage of night fishing is the peacefulness it offers. The Columbia River can be busy during the day with boat traffic, but at night, it’s usually much quieter. This tranquility allows you to focus more on your fishing technique and enjoy the surroundings.
Essential Gear for Night Walleye Fishing
Before heading out for a night of walleye fishing, it’s essential to have the right gear. Here’s a quick rundown of what you’ll need:
- Fishing Rod and Reel: A medium-action rod paired with a spinning reel works well for walleye. You’ll need something that’s sensitive enough to detect subtle bites but strong enough to handle larger fish.
- Line: A braided line in the 8-12 lb range is a good choice for night fishing. Braided lines offer more sensitivity, helping you feel even the lightest nibbles. A fluorocarbon leader can also be useful as it’s virtually invisible underwater.
- Lures and Bait: Walleye are often attracted to lures that mimic their natural prey. Minnows, nightcrawlers, and leeches are popular bait choices. For lures, try using jigs, crankbaits, or spinnerbaits in dark colors like black, purple, or blue, which create a silhouette in low light. Glow-in-the-dark lures can also be highly effective at night.
- Lighting: Since you’ll be fishing in the dark, you’ll need a good headlamp or lantern. A headlamp keeps your hands free while providing enough light to tie knots and bait hooks. Some anglers also use underwater fishing lights to attract baitfish, which in turn attracts walleye.
- Boat Setup: If you’re fishing from a boat, ensure that it’s equipped with the necessary safety features, including navigation lights. A GPS or depth finder is also beneficial for tracking underwater structures where walleye tend to hang out.
Best Spots for Night Walleye Fishing on the Columbia River
The Columbia River is one of the best places in the country to catch walleye, and night fishing can lead to even better results. But where should you cast your line? Walleye are structure-oriented fish, meaning they like to hang around areas with rocks, weed beds, drop-offs, and points. These structures provide shelter and attract baitfish, which is exactly where walleye will be hunting.
Some prime areas to target include:
- Shallow Flats: At night, walleye often move into shallower waters to feed. Look for flats near deeper water, as this is where they’ll come up to hunt for prey.
- Rocky Points: Walleye love rocky structures, especially those that extend into deeper water. Rocky points, in particular, can be hotspots for night fishing.
- Weed Beds and Reeds: Vegetation is a great place to find baitfish, and where there’s baitfish, there are walleye. Focus on casting along the edges of weed beds.
- Bridges and Dams: Structures like bridges and dams provide excellent opportunities for night fishing. These areas tend to have slower currents and attract both baitfish and walleye.
Techniques for Catching Walleye at Night
Night fishing for walleye requires a slightly different approach than daytime fishing. Here are a few key techniques to improve your success:
- Slow Down Your Presentation: Walleye are often more cautious at night, so a slow presentation is crucial. Whether you’re using live bait or lures, retrieve them slowly to give the fish more time to strike.
- Use a Steady Retrieve: A steady, slow retrieve often works best when fishing for walleye at night. This mimics the movement of natural prey and entices walleye to bite.
- Vertical Jigging: One of the most effective techniques for catching walleye at night is vertical jigging. Drop your jig down to the bottom and slowly lift it while keeping your line tight. This method works well near structures where walleye are likely hiding.
- Trolling: If you’re fishing from a boat, trolling can be a productive way to cover more water and find active fish. Use crankbaits or spinner rigs and troll at a slow speed to entice walleye.
Safety Tips for Night Fishing
Fishing at night can be a unique experience, but it also comes with added risks. Here are some important safety tips to keep in mind:
- Always Wear a Life Jacket: Even if you’re a strong swimmer, it’s crucial to wear a life jacket, especially when fishing in the dark. You never know when an accident might happen, and wearing a life jacket ensures you stay safe.
- Stay Visible: If you’re fishing from a boat, make sure your navigation lights are on and visible. This helps other boaters see you and reduces the risk of collisions.
- Know the River: Night fishing requires a good understanding of the river’s layout. Familiarize yourself with the Columbia River’s currents, sandbars, and structures before heading out.
- Bring a Buddy: Fishing alone can be peaceful, but it’s always safer to bring someone with you when night fishing. Having a friend nearby ensures that you have someone to help in case of an emergency.
The Thrill of Night Walleye Fishing
Walleye fishing on the Columbia River is an unforgettable experience, and fishing at night adds a whole new layer of excitement. The thrill of waiting in the quiet darkness, feeling the tug on your line, and landing a beautiful walleye is an adventure every angler should experience. By using the right techniques, gear, and safety precautions, you can make the most of your night fishing trip.
If you’re ready to take on the challenge of night fishing for walleye, there’s no better place than the Columbia River. With its abundance of prime fishing spots and the chance to catch trophy-sized walleye, it’s a dream destination for anglers of all skill levels.
To learn more about the best strategies for catching walleye, be sure to check out this Walleye Fishing Columbia River guide, which provides additional insights on how to maximize your chances of landing these fish.
In the end, patience, persistence, and preparation are key. So, grab your gear, head out under the stars, and enjoy one of the most rewarding fishing experiences you can have. Night fishing for walleye on the Columbia River could very well become your new favorite way to fish.
