The Science of Barometric Pressure on Fall and Winter Walleye

J Rod’s Guide to Catching Late Season Walleye

By Jaime Rodriquez, Mack's Pro Staffer

I'm excited to share some insights and strategies I've honed over the years while fishing for Eastern Washington walleye. As you probably know by now, Walleye is my favorite fish to catch, and I fish three to four times a month, year-round. Fall is a prime time for walleye fishing, but it's also a season where unpredictable weather adds some unique challenges to the mix. Understanding how barometric pressure influences walleye behavior can truly enhance your catch rate. Here’s my take on turning these atmospheric nuances into your secret weapon to turn this fall into your best walleye season yet. 

Understanding the Effects of Barometric Pressure

First, let’s talk about atmospheric, or barometric, pressure. It’s that invisible force of the air above us and, believe it or not, it has a huge impact on walleye behavior. Here's what I've learned:

Low Barometric Pressure:

Walleye Behavior: Typically, this is when storms are incoming, marked by overcast skies and wind. During these times, walleye became more active. They sense changes in the environment and often go on a feeding frenzy.

Fishing Opportunity: It's the perfect chance to get on the water before a storm hits.

High  Barometric Pressure:

• Walleye Behavior:  As pressure stabilizes after a storm, bringing clear skies, walleye tends to become sluggish. Lethargic fish head for deeper, cooler areas.
  
  
• Fishing Challenge: These conditions require more strategic approaches to catch their interest.

Fishing Tips and Tactics

Now, let's get into some practical strategies for maximizing your walleye catch based on these pressure conditions:

 Low Pressure Fishing Tactics:

• Crankbaits and Jigs: I swear by using brightly colored crankbaits and jigs during low pressure. The movement and vibrations mimic the natural prey behavior that walleye find irresistible during pre-storm periods.
  
  
•  Shallow Water Focus: Don’t miss targeting the shallows. Walleye move inshore to feed, making these areas hot spots.

High-Pressure Fishing Tactics:

• Worm Harness Rigs: On sunny days, I opt for these rigs tipped with nightcrawler. The key here is a slow, subtle presentation to tempt the walleye into biting.
  
  
• Deep Water Strategy: Focus on deeper structures like drop-offs and ledges, where walleye often retreats. It's about patience and finesse.

Making Pressure Work for You

How about some tips on planning your fishing trips and tweaking your tactics on the go?

• PRO TIP:  I keep a barometer handy or use a smart fishing app to track pressure trends. This helps me decide the best times to hit the water.
•  PRO TIP:  A sudden drop in barometric pressure signals prime fishing conditions. So, I plan to be out there around those shifts for optimal action.

Stay Flexible: Adapt on the fly. If the pressure is dropping, start shallow and shift to deeper waters as the day progresses. Reverse this on high-pressure days.

Experimentation is Key: Experiement with lure colors, speeds, and movements to match the mood of the fish. It’s all about finding the right combination.

Conclusion

By understanding and harnessing the effects of barometric pressure, you can significantly improve your walleye catch rates this fall.  With these tips and tactics, you’re well on your way to turning atmospheric conditions into fishing opportunities. Stay adaptable, keep experimenting, and most importantly, enjoy the adventure. 

• Low Pressure systems/ Air Stagnate - Walleye fishing can be tough, an easy way to look at it is- Just imagine your hand putting pressure on the water, with this it doesn’t allow fish to move freely and potentially become less active. Probably better to stay home and tie lures
  
  
• Atmospheric Pressure/Barometer - Whenever there is a swing in air pressure, fishing can be great like I mentioned above. To build your confidence level while on the way to your favorite fishing spot this season take a look at the Barometric Pressure- If you see a pull get ready because you're about to catch the Big Fish of the Day.

Goodluck everyone, and be safe out there.

Jaime Rodriquez
J-Rod Angling and Mack's Pro-Staffer