By Eric Braaten, Mack's Lure Pro Staff
Eric Braaten a Mack’s Lure Pro Staff member, he combines his professional expertise in fisheries biology with his passion for walleye fishing, making him a recognized authority on walleye techniques throughout the Pacific Northwest. Braaten fishes for walleye over 200 days per year and regularly contributes educational content on jigging tactics and tackle selection, bridging the gap between scientific fish management and practical angling knowledge.
Many lakes, reservoirs, and rivers in Washington State offer an abundant food supply for these fish. The aggressiveness of the fall walleye bite is unlike any other, eating is the name of the game, and this is my favorite time of year to fish.
Where to start and what areas to target? In the fall, walleye are focused on ambushing prey. Baitfish typically congregate near weed lines or structure. Transition areas where shallow water drops off into deeper zones are key locations to fish.
I like to target:
In these areas, I look for fish to concentrate at certain times of the day.
As lake temperatures drop below 50°F, walleye become increasingly active, feeding heavily and repeatedly. I’ll fish right up until the lake begins to freeze. Once water temperatures dip below 40°F (usually in late December), the aggressiveness starts to taper off.
During this late-fall period, I search for large concentrations of walleye, often near known spawning areas. Reaction baits like Sonic BaitFish, jigs, and blade baits become my go-to options. I fish them slower and with more intent.
Fall weather patterns can range from seasonally warm to cold and windy. Wind is common, and paying attention to approaching weather fronts can help you time your trips with peak bite windows.
In the fall, I fish more aggressively—using faster speeds, erratic actions, and baits with added noise. Bigger baits tend to work better. Crankbaits, jigs, blade baits, reaction baits, and crawler harnesses are all effective tools. Each has its place depending on the conditions.
Here’s how I typically use them:
PRO TIP: When trolling over 1.1 mph, I switch to the Double Whammy with the Indiana blade and may troll as fast as 1.5 to 1.8 mph. These can handle higher speeds with minimal line twist. Fast trolling in fall can trigger explosive bites.
Sonic BaitFish (¼ to ½ oz): Available in many colors—my top picks are Firetiger, Silver, and Gold Glitter.
PRO TIP: I add an extra treble hook for balance and fish it from the middle pull point to boost vibration. The Sonic BaitFish does a great job of “matching the hatch” for fall walleye.
PRO TIP: I enhance this jig by sliding a Mack’s 2" squid skirt over the hook barb and adding a nightcrawler to increase its profile.
PRO TIP: Add scent inside the tube chamber and troll slower into December for best results.
PRO TIP: In murky water or windy conditions, opt for larger Smile Blades. Their increased vibration mimics bigger baitfish and draws fish from greater distances.
Fall is a fantastic time to fish for walleye. Many Washington State lakes and rivers hold strong populations, and this season can be one of the most productive.
I’ll be out there until the lakes begin to freeze—searching for concentrations of fish near known spawning areas and relying on reaction baits, jigs, and blade baits, all fished with a slower presentation.
Good luck this fall! Be sure to stock up on all your Mack’s Lure products from their official online store so you're ready for your next trip.
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