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Caught a trophy walleye Fishing in Stillwater
Walleye Fishing in Stillwater
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The Sander Vitreus 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.
Guided Fishing Trip by Guide Ryan Bunnell in December
Meet your Guide Ryan Bunnell
- Thrilling St. Croix River Fishing Guides!
Summary
Guide Ryan Bunnell of Croix Boys Guided Adventures on Thursday June offers exceptional walleye fishing on the scenic St. Croix River near Stillwater, Minnesota. This 4-hour guided fishing trip targets walleye, smallmouth bass, and northern pike using proven techniques like jigging, trolling, and live bait fishing. All gear and bait are included, making it perfect for anglers of all skill levels. The St. Croix River's diverse structure and drop-offs provide prime habitat for trophy walleye, with recent catches including impressive 25-inch specimens. Whether you're learning new techniques or seeking your personal best, this private morning adventure delivers unforgettable fishing experiences on one of Minnesota's premier fishing destinations. Book online to secure your spot on the water with local expertise and top-notch equipment provided.
Guided Fishing Trip with Ryan Bunnell – Rates & Booking
Guide Ryan Bunnell of Croix Boys Guided Adventures on Thursday June leads this 4-hour St. Croix River fishing adventure targeting walleye and other local species. The trip includes all fishing gear, live bait, and personalized instruction for up to 2 guests. Licensed guide with extensive local knowledge ensures you'll fish the most productive spots along the river. Morning departure times available with flexible scheduling to match weather conditions. Contact us directly for current rates and availability, or book online to secure your preferred date.
Highlights of Half Day Guided Fishing Trip On St. Croix River - Walleye, Sauger, Smallmouth, Pike, And More
The St. Croix River near Stillwater offers some of Minnesota's finest walleye fishing, with structure-rich waters that hold trophy fish year-round. Recent trips have produced impressive catches, including a beautiful 25-inch walleye that showcased the quality fishing available in these waters. The river's diverse habitat supports multiple species, giving anglers opportunities for walleye, smallmouth bass, northern pike, and sauger.
Our approach combines proven techniques including jigging around drop-offs and structure, trolling to cover water and locate active fish, and live bait presentations when conditions call for finesse. The scenic St. Croix provides a perfect backdrop for your fishing adventure, with pristine waters and abundant wildlife adding to the overall experience.
Local Species Insights: Walleye
Walleye thrive in the St. Croix River's clear, well-oxygenated waters, using the river's varied structure and depth changes to their advantage. These prized gamefish are most active during low-light periods, making early morning trips particularly productive. In June, walleye move into shallower areas near rocky points and drop-offs, where they feed aggressively on minnows and crayfish. The river's current breaks and eddies create perfect ambush points where walleye wait for prey, making them ideal targets for jigging and live bait presentations. Their excellent table fare and fighting ability make walleye the crown jewel of St. Croix River fishing.
Plan Your Guided Fishing Trip Day
Your 4-hour St. Croix River adventure begins with an early morning launch to maximize fishing opportunities during prime feeding times. All fishing equipment is provided, including rods, reels, tackle, and live bait, so you only need to bring yourself and appropriate weather gear. The trip accommodates up to 2 guests comfortably, ensuring personalized attention and instruction throughout the day. Guide Ryan will adjust techniques and locations based on current conditions and your skill level, whether you're a beginner learning the basics or an experienced angler looking to improve your walleye game. Safety equipment and local knowledge are included, making this the perfect way to experience the St. Croix River's exceptional fishing opportunities.
Fishing in St. Croix River: Walleye
Walleye (Sander vitreus) are prized freshwater gamefish belonging to the Percidae family within the order Perciformes. These golden-olive colored fish are distinguished by their large, silvery eyes that contain a reflective layer called the tapetum lucidum, giving them exceptional low-light vision. In Stillwater waters this June, walleye use this advantage to feed actively during dawn and dusk periods when many anglers find the most success.
Walleye Overview
Walleye are elongated fish with olive-green backs that fade to golden yellow sides and white bellies. Their most distinctive feature is their large, glassy eyes that appear to glow in dim light. These popular gamefish are highly sought after for both their fighting ability and excellent table fare, making them a favorite target for recreational and subsistence anglers throughout the Great Lakes region and northern United States.
Walleye Habitat and Distribution
Walleye prefer clear, cool waters of lakes and rivers with rocky or gravel bottoms. They thrive in the St. Croix River's diverse habitat, utilizing deep pools, current breaks, and rocky structure. These fish are native to northern freshwater systems and have been successfully introduced to many waters throughout North America, where they've become cornerstone species for recreational fishing.
Walleye Size and Weight
Walleye typically range from 12 to 42 inches in length, with weights between 1 and 10 pounds. Most recreational catches fall between 14-20 inches, while trophy specimens over 25 inches are considered exceptional. The current world record walleye weighed 25 pounds, though fish over 10 pounds are rare and highly prized by anglers.
Walleye Diet and Behavior
Walleye are opportunistic predators that feed primarily on small fish, crayfish, and aquatic insects. They hunt most actively during low-light conditions, using their superior night vision to ambush prey. During daylight hours, walleye often retreat to deeper water or shaded areas, making them challenging targets for daytime anglers who must adjust their techniques accordingly.
Walleye Spawning Season
Walleye spawn in early spring when water temperatures reach 38-44°F, typically moving into shallow, rocky areas or tributary streams. Males arrive first to establish territories, followed by females who broadcast eggs over gravel beds. This spawning behavior makes spring an excellent time for anglers to target concentrations of fish in predictable locations.
Walleye Fishing Techniques
Effective walleye techniques include jigging with live minnows or soft plastics near bottom structure, trolling crankbaits or spinner rigs along drop-offs, and casting jigs or live bait to rocky points and current breaks. In June, anglers around Stillwater find success working the river's deeper holes and structure during daylight hours, then moving to shallower areas as evening approaches for the most productive fishing.
Walleye Is It Good to Eat?
Walleye are considered among the finest eating freshwater fish, with firm, white, flaky meat that has a mild, sweet flavor. The flesh is low in fat and high in protein, making it a healthy choice for regular consumption. Popular cooking methods include pan-frying, baking, and grilling, with the delicate flavor requiring minimal seasoning to shine.
Walleye Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best bait for walleye?
A: Live minnows, nightcrawlers, and leeches are top natural baits, while jigs tipped with soft plastics or live bait are extremely effective artificial options.
Q: Where can I find walleye near Stillwater?
A: The St. Croix River offers excellent walleye fishing around rocky points, drop-offs, and current breaks, particularly in deeper pools and areas with varied bottom structure.
Q: Is walleye good to eat?
A: Yes, walleye are considered one of the best-tasting freshwater fish, with mild, flaky white meat that's perfect for various cooking methods.
Q: When is the best time to catch walleye?
A: Early morning and evening hours during low-light conditions are prime times, though walleye can be caught throughout the day with proper techniques and locations.
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!
