Ice Fishing Walleyes? Consider Using Sucker Minnows

Ice fshing for walleyes? You should consider using sucker minnows. There, I said it. Yes, I had good walleye success recently in January on central Minnesota's Lake Mille Lacs using, surprisingly, sucker minnows!

Thanks to a cold front that struck the area, we encountered a neutral to negative walleye bite, but we just kept experimenting. We worked the hard-water rules of attraction, starting with jigging rattle lures, with a larger profile in one hole. That brought fish into our vicinity.

Then, in that second hole, we used a 5- to 6-inch sucker with no jigging action whatsoever. For reasons that remain unclear to me, no one uses suckers for walleyes. On this day, shiners and fatheads were not working, but with sucker minnows, we found success!

The complete setup included a red hook, with an offset color bead (usually gold) to mix up that color scheme. We hooked the sucker minnow underneath the dorsal fin.

Jigging to draw them in was key with our other rod, but that big meat sealed the deal. Important point: These suckers were lively. I believe their struggling action and size was a major attraction. They were big, and combined with the fact that predatory walleyes were so used to seeing shiners and fatheads, I think that got them going. On our flasher, we saw them charge the sucker!

Truth be told, I will try this same technique this summer, too, especially in areas where I can use two lines. Here is why:

Natural Appeal

Walleyes, known for their predatory instincts, are always on the hunt for a hearty meal, especially in the cold winter months when their metabolism slows down but their need for energy remains high. Suckers mimic the natural prey of walleyes in both size and movement. By using suckers, you're tapping into the walleye's instinctive feeding habits. The natural swimming action of a live sucker, even when slightly restricted by cold water temperatures, sends out vibrations and movements that are irresistible to walleyes.

Size and Visibility

During ice fishing, visibility can be limited under the ice, especially in murky or deeper waters. Suckers, typically ranging in size from 4 to 8 inches, present a substantial profile that helps walleyes locate the bait from a distance. Their size makes them an attractive meal for larger walleyes, increasing your chances of catching a more significant fish. The robust size of suckers also means they are durable and can handle the aggressive strikes walleyes are known for.

Versatility in Rigging

One of the great advantages of using suckers for ice fishing is their versatility. You can rig a sucker in multiple ways to suit different fishing conditions and preferences. Whether you opt for a tip-up setup, where the sucker is allowed to swim freely under the ice, or a jigging method that creates enticing movements, suckers are adaptable to various rigging techniques. This flexibility allows anglers to experiment with different depths and movements, adapting their strategy based on the behavior of the walleyes on a given day.

Enhanced Scent Trail

Suckers naturally emit a strong scent, which is crucial in the sensory-driven world of walleye fishing. Under the ice, where sight lines can be limited and temperatures drop, scent becomes a significant factor in attracting fish. The robust, oily scent of a sucker helps to create an enticing trail that leads walleyes right to your hook. This can be particularly effective during mid-winter, when walleyes may be less active and more reliant on their sense of smell to find food.

Proven Success

The use of suckers is not just theoretical; many experienced ice fishermen attest to their effectiveness. In regions where walleyes are prevalent, such as the icy waters of the Great Lakes or the frozen lakes across the Midwest, suckers have a proven track record of success. Their ability to attract and catch walleyes under diverse and challenging conditions makes them a staple for serious ice anglers.