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Caught a 23inch walleye on St Croix River
Walleye Fishing on St. Croix River 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 December
Meet your Guide Ryan Bunnell
- Thrilling St. Croix River Fishing Guides!
Summary
Guide Ryan Bunnell of Croix Boys Guided Adventures on Monday July offers exceptional walleye fishing on the scenic St. Croix River near Stillwater, Minnesota. This 4-hour guided fishing trip targets walleye, smallmouth bass, sauger, and northern pike using proven techniques like trolling, jigging, and live bait fishing. The morning excursion launches from 9134 MN-95 and includes all gear and live bait for anglers of all skill levels. Recent trips have produced impressive catches, including a memorable 23-inch walleye that showcases the quality fishing opportunities available on these productive waters. The St. Croix River's diverse structure and seasonal patterns make it ideal for targeting multiple species throughout the summer months, with local knowledge ensuring you'll fish the most productive spots and techniques for consistent results.
Guided Fishing Trip with Ryan Bunnell – Rates & Booking
Guide Ryan Bunnell of Croix Boys Guided Adventures on Monday July leads this 4-hour St. Croix River fishing experience for up to 2 guests. The trip includes all fishing gear, live bait, and expert guidance to the river's most productive walleye spots. Starting at 9134 MN-95, you'll spend four solid hours targeting walleye, smallmouth bass, and other local species using trolling, jigging, and live bait techniques. Ryan's years of experience on these waters ensures you'll learn the spots and methods that consistently produce results. Book your guided fishing trip today and experience some of the best river fishing Minnesota has to offer.
Highlights of Half Day Guided Fishing Trip On St. Croix River - Walleye, Sauger, Smallmouth, Pike, And More
This morning excursion provides excellent opportunities to catch multiple species in one of Minnesota's most scenic river systems. The St. Croix River's diverse habitat supports healthy populations of walleye, smallmouth bass, sauger, and northern pike. Recent trips have produced impressive catches, including a 23-inch walleye that demonstrates the quality fishing available. The 4-hour format allows ample time to explore different techniques and locations while accommodating anglers of all experience levels.
All necessary equipment is provided, including rods, reels, tackle, and live bait. The trip launches from a convenient location at 9134 MN-95, offering easy access to prime fishing waters. Whether you're targeting your first walleye or looking to add to your Minnesota fishing memories, this guided experience delivers both instruction and excitement on one of the region's premier fishing destinations.
Local Species Insights: Walleye
Walleye thrive in the St. Croix River's varied structure, from deep pools to rocky shorelines and current breaks. These prized gamefish are most active during low-light conditions, making early morning trips particularly productive. The river's healthy forage base of minnows, crayfish, and aquatic insects supports strong walleye populations throughout the system. During July, walleye often relate to deeper water during midday heat but move shallow to feed during dawn and dusk periods, making timing and location critical for consistent success.
Plan Your Fishing Charter Day
Your 4-hour guided trip begins with a morning launch from 9134 MN-95, where you'll meet Guide Ryan and receive a brief orientation on the day's fishing plan. The boat is equipped with quality fishing gear, electronics for locating fish, and safety equipment for a comfortable experience. Ryan will adjust techniques throughout the trip based on conditions and fish activity, teaching you proven methods for walleye success. The trip accommodates up to 2 guests and includes all necessary gear, live bait, and expert instruction for an enjoyable day on the St. Croix River.
Fishing in St. Croix River: Walleye
Walleye (Sander vitreus) are prized freshwater gamefish belonging to the perch family Percidae. These golden-olive colored fish feature distinctive silvery eyes with a reflective tapetum lucidum that gives them superior vision in low-light conditions. In Stillwater waters this July, walleye utilize their exceptional eyesight to hunt effectively during dawn and dusk periods when many anglers experience their best success.
Walleye Overview
Walleye are considered one of North America's premier gamefish, prized for both their fighting ability and excellent table fare. Their elongated body shape and sharp canine teeth make them efficient predators in river and lake systems. The species gets its name from the distinctive "wall-eyed" appearance created by their large, reflective eyes that appear to look outward.
Walleye Habitat and Distribution
These fish thrive in cool, clear waters with rocky or gravel bottoms. In the St. Croix River system near Stillwater, walleye inhabit deep pools, current breaks, and areas with structure like fallen trees or rock piles. They prefer water temperatures between 60-70°F and are commonly found at depths ranging from 10-40 feet, though they move shallow to feed during optimal conditions.
Walleye Size and Weight
Walleye typically range from 12 to 42 inches in length, with weights from 1 to 10 pounds. The average keeper walleye measures 14-18 inches and weighs 1-3 pounds. Trophy specimens over 28 inches and 8 pounds are considered exceptional catches that represent years of growth in productive waters.
Walleye Diet and Behavior
Walleye are opportunistic predators that feed primarily on small fish, including minnows, yellow perch, and juvenile gamefish. They also consume crayfish, aquatic insects, and leeches. Their feeding activity peaks during low-light periods, making early morning and evening the most productive fishing times. During summer months, they often suspend in deeper water during bright daylight hours.
Walleye Spawning Season
Walleye spawn in early spring when water temperatures reach 38-44°F, typically in shallow, rocky areas with current. After spawning, adults move to deeper water and begin their summer feeding patterns. Post-spawn walleye are often hungry and aggressive, making late spring and early summer excellent times for angling success.
Walleye Fishing Techniques
Effective walleye techniques include trolling with crankbaits, jigging with live minnows or soft plastics, and rigging with nightcrawlers or leeches. In July, anglers around Stillwater find success trolling deep-diving crankbaits along river channels and jigging live bait near structure during low-light periods. Slip sinker rigs with live bait work well for covering water and locating active fish.
Walleye Is It Good to Eat?
Walleye are widely considered one of the best-tasting freshwater fish, featuring firm, white, flaky meat with a mild, sweet flavor. The fillets are excellent when battered and fried, baked with seasonings, or grilled. Walleye are high in protein and omega-3 fatty acids while being relatively low in mercury, making them a healthy choice for regular consumption.
Walleye Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best bait for walleye?
A: Live minnows, nightcrawlers, and leeches are top choices, along with jigs tipped with soft plastics and crankbaits in natural colors.
Q: Where can I find walleye near Stillwater?
A: The St. Croix River offers excellent walleye fishing, particularly around deep pools, current breaks, and rocky structure areas.
Q: Is walleye good to eat?
A: Yes, walleye are considered among the best-tasting freshwater fish with mild, flaky white meat that's excellent prepared many ways.
Q: When is the best time to catch walleye?
A: Early morning and evening during low-light conditions are prime times, though overcast days can provide all-day action.
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!
