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Caught a 23inch walleye on St Croix River
Walleye Fishing in Stillwater
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The Walleye belongs to the order Perciformes and family Percidae. It typically measures between 12 and 42 inches in length, with a weight range from 1 to 10 lbs. Habitat: lake, river. - Walleye are freshwater fish that is a part of the perch family. - They are a very popular game fish for the angler in the regions where they are found. - Also a favorite for the dining table.
Guided Fishing Trip by Guide Ryan Bunnell in August
Meet your Guide Ryan Bunnell
- Thrilling St. Croix River Fishing Guides!
Summary
Guide Ryan Bunnell of Croix Boys Guided Adventures on Monday July led an exceptional 4-hour guided fishing trip on the St. Croix River near Stillwater. Using proven techniques like trolling, jigging, and live bait fishing, this morning excursion delivered prime walleye action in ideal conditions. The scenic river offers excellent opportunities for anglers of all skill levels to target walleye, smallmouth bass, and other local species. With all gear and live bait included, these guided trips provide the perfect introduction to Minnesota's premier river fishing. Local knowledge and years of experience on these waters ensure consistent results, making this an ideal choice for both seasoned anglers and beginners looking to experience the best fishing Stillwater has to offer.
Fishing Charter with Ryan Bunnell – Rates & Booking
Guide Ryan Bunnell of Croix Boys Guided Adventures on Monday July offers comprehensive 4-hour guided fishing trips on the St. Croix River. These morning excursions include all fishing gear, live bait, and expert guidance to the most productive walleye spots. Launching from 9134 MN-95, trips accommodate up to 2 guests and focus on proven techniques including trolling, jigging, and live bait presentation. Licensed local guide with extensive river knowledge ensures safe, productive outings for all skill levels. Book online or call for current rates and availability.
Highlights of Half Day Guided Fishing Trip On St. Croix River - Walleye, Sauger, Smallmouth, Pike, And More
The St. Croix River near Stillwater provides exceptional walleye fishing opportunities throughout the summer months. Recent trips have produced impressive catches, including a memorable 23-inch walleye that showcased the quality fishing available on these waters. The scenic river environment offers diverse structure and habitat perfect for multiple species including sauger, smallmouth bass, and northern pike.
Morning trips take advantage of prime feeding times when fish are most active. The combination of local expertise, quality equipment, and proven fishing locations creates ideal conditions for both learning new techniques and landing trophy fish. Whether you're targeting your first walleye or seeking to improve your river fishing skills, these guided trips provide the knowledge and support needed for success.
Local Species Insights: Walleye
Walleye thrive in the St. Croix River's diverse habitat, utilizing both deeper pools and rocky structure throughout their daily feeding patterns. These prized gamefish are most active during low-light conditions, making early morning trips particularly productive. The river's current breaks, drop-offs, and rocky areas provide ideal ambush points where walleye wait for baitfish. During July, walleye often move to deeper water during midday heat but remain accessible to anglers using proper jigging techniques and live bait presentation. The St. Croix's healthy ecosystem supports strong walleye populations, with fish ranging from eating-size specimens to trophy-class catches exceeding 20 inches.
Plan Your Fishing Charter Day
Your 4-hour St. Croix River fishing adventure begins with a morning launch from the designated access point on MN-95. All necessary fishing equipment, tackle, and live bait are provided, allowing you to focus entirely on the fishing experience. The trip accommodates up to 2 guests comfortably, ensuring personalized attention and instruction throughout the excursion. Guide Ryan's local knowledge includes understanding seasonal patterns, optimal fishing locations, and the most effective techniques for current conditions. Safety equipment and proper licensing guidance are included, making this a worry-free introduction to Minnesota river fishing at its finest.
Fishing in St. Croix River: Walleye
Walleye (Sander vitreus) are premier freshwater gamefish belonging to the Percidae family within the order Perciformes. These golden-olive colored fish feature distinctive silvery eyes with a reflective tapetum lucidum that gives them exceptional low-light vision. In Stillwater waters this July, walleye utilize the St. Croix River's varied structure and current breaks for optimal feeding opportunities.
Walleye Overview
Walleye are highly prized by anglers for their fighting ability and exceptional table fare. These elongated fish display golden-olive coloration with white bellies and prominent canine teeth. Their most distinguishing feature is their large, glassy eyes that reflect light, giving them their common name. Walleye are considered one of the finest eating freshwater fish, with firm white meat and mild flavor.
Walleye Habitat and Distribution
Walleye inhabit lakes, rivers, and reservoirs throughout the northern United States and Canada. They prefer clear, cool waters with rocky or gravel bottoms and abundant structure. In the St. Croix River system near Stillwater, walleye utilize deep pools, current breaks, and rocky areas for feeding and shelter. They move between shallow and deep water based on light conditions, temperature, and food availability.
Walleye Size and Weight
Walleye typically range from 12 to 42 inches in length, with weights from 1 to 10 pounds. Most fish caught by anglers measure 14-20 inches and weigh 1-3 pounds. Trophy specimens exceeding 8 pounds are considered exceptional catches. The current world record walleye weighed 25 pounds and measured 41 inches, though such giants are extremely rare.
Walleye Diet and Behavior
Walleye are opportunistic predators that feed primarily on smaller fish including minnows, yellow perch, and juvenile gamefish. They also consume crayfish, leeches, and aquatic insects. These fish are most active during dawn, dusk, and nighttime hours when their superior vision gives them advantages over prey species. During bright daylight, walleye typically retreat to deeper water or shaded areas.
Walleye Spawning Season
Walleye spawn in early spring when water temperatures reach 38-44°F, typically in April and May in Minnesota waters. They migrate to shallow rocky areas, gravel bars, or tributary streams to deposit eggs. Spawning occurs at night in water depths of 1-6 feet. Females can produce 23,000-295,000 eggs depending on their size and age.
Walleye Fishing Techniques
Effective walleye techniques include jigging with live minnows or leeches, trolling with crankbaits or spinner rigs, and casting jigs tipped with soft plastics. Popular baits include nightcrawlers, leeches, and fathead minnows. In July, anglers around Stillwater find success targeting deeper pools and current breaks during early morning hours, then switching to deeper water presentations as the sun rises.
Walleye Is It Good to Eat?
Walleye are widely considered among the best-tasting freshwater fish. Their meat is firm, white, and flaky with a mild, sweet flavor and virtually no fishy taste. The fillets are excellent when battered and fried, baked, grilled, or prepared as fish cakes. Walleye are high in protein and omega-3 fatty acids while being relatively low in mercury compared to many other fish species.
Walleye Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best bait for walleye?
A: Live minnows, leeches, and nightcrawlers are top choices. Jigs tipped with soft plastics and crankbaits also produce excellent results, especially when matched to local forage.
Q: Where can I find walleye near Stillwater?
A: The St. Croix River offers excellent walleye fishing, particularly around deeper pools, current breaks, and rocky structure. Focus on areas with 8-20 feet of water during summer months.
Q: Is walleye good to eat?
A: Absolutely. Walleye are considered one of the finest eating freshwater fish, with firm white meat and mild flavor that appeals to even those who typically don't enjoy fish.
Q: When is the best time to catch walleye?
A: Early morning and evening hours are prime times, though walleye can be caught throughout the day using proper techniques and locations. Overcast conditions often improve daytime fishing success.
More species you can explore on this trip
Croix Boys Guided Adventures Available Trips
Other customer memories from this trip
Ready for a fun morning on the water? Join Captain Ryan for a 4-hour fishing trip on the beautiful St. Croix River. Whether you're an experienced angler or new to fishing, this trip is perfect for everyone. You'll have the chance to catch walleye, smallmouth bass, sauger, pike, and other local fish while enjoying the scenery around you. Captain Ryan knows all the best spots and will make sure you have a great time out there. No need to worry about gear or bait - it's all provided for you. Just bring your enthusiasm and get ready for a memorable day on the river. With room for two guests, it's an ideal outing for you and a friend or family member. Don't miss this chance to make some fantastic fishing memories on the St. Croix!
