🐟 Walleye Facts – Get to Know Alberta’s Top Sportfish! 🎣
Walleye (Sander vitreus) are the crown jewel of Alberta’s freshwater fisheries, and they’re the ultimate prize in SAWT tournaments. Here are some interesting facts about this incredible species!
🔥 Did You Know?
✅ Eyes Built for Low Light: Walleye have a special reflective layer in their eyes (called the tapetum lucidum) that helps them see in murky water and low-light conditions—giving them a big advantage at dawn, dusk, and on cloudy days.
✅ Size & Growth: Alberta walleye grow slower than their southern cousins due to colder water temperatures. The average tournament-sized walleye is 20-26 inches, but trophy fish can exceed 30 inches and weigh over 10 lbs!
✅ Top Predator: Walleye are aggressive hunters, feeding on minnows, perch, and even small walleye! Their sharp teeth and powerful jaws help them ambush prey with precision.
✅ Catch & Release Matters: Walleye populations are carefully managed in Alberta with slot limits, restricted harvest zones, and stocked lakes to maintain healthy numbers for future generations.
✅ Best Baits & Lures: Anglers have success using jigs, crankbaits, and live bait rigs. Walleye prefer natural colors in clear water and brighter options in stained water.
🏆 Compete for the Best Walleye in Alberta!
The Southern Alberta Walleye Trail (SAWT) is where anglers test their skills against the best—all while supporting sustainable fishing and conservation. Want to compete? Register today at 👉 register.sawt.ca
💬 What’s your biggest walleye catch? Drop your PB (Personal Best) in the comments! ⬇️🐟
