Hands down, the most popular game fish in Ontario must be the walleye (Sander vitreus vitreus). Known for its frisky fight and finicky attitude the walleye is the shore lunch favourite of nearly all anglers who stay at Mar Mac Lodge. Arguably the best tasting freshwater fish, they continue to be the number one sought after fish species in Ontario and produce great numbers on an annual basis.
Walleye are active year round in Esnagi’s waters ensuring a successful angling experience spring, summer and autumn.
Walleye season opens the third Saturday in May each year. Following the spring spawn walleye are found in shallow waters, the back bays, and near rivers and creeks. As the water of Esnagi warms, the walleye will leave these areas.
During the summer months walleye generally migrate to deeper water where the temperatures are much more suitable for them. Walleye should be targeted on rocky shoals, sandbars, points, and around islands. Fish depths of 8 to 20 feet of water. Weed beds will always attract and hold walleye. Drifting over submerged weeds or trolling the weed lines are good approaches. During the mayfly hatch (July) back bays lined with bullrushes can provide some exciting shallow water summer angling.
The autumn months in Ontario prove to be one of the most pleasurable times of the year to fish for walleye. As the seasons slowly change and the forests come alive with mother nature’s brilliant colours, the walleye heads for yet deeper waters. Fishing with a jig tipped with a minnow or piece of worm is a simple yet effective approach for catching late-season Esnagi walleye. At this time of year, a depth finder can be of great assistance. Fall walleye are very active as their biological clock is instructing them to stock up on forage for the long winter months ahead.
The Mar Mac Lodge team will be pleased to suggest hotspots to you to ensure your trip to Esnagi is both successful and memorable. Guides are available for hire. Many shore lunch sites have been set up for your use. Be sure to request your shore lunch kit! Enjoying your fresh catch cooked over an open fire is a Northern Ontario tradition and one you will not soon forget!
Have questions about walleye fishing on Esnagi? Send us an email or give us a call at 705=971-7922.