The ice is gone, your gear’s prepped, and the season’s first casts are calling. But early spring isn’t always easy — cold water, unpredictable weather, and sluggish fish can stump even experienced anglers. That’s why walleye and pike are the perfect early-season targets. They’re aggressive, active in cold water, and a total blast to catch.
This post breaks down what you need to know to catch more fish this spring — from where to find them in chilly water, to what gear and tactics actually work (especially for beginners). Whether you're fishing from shore or boat, this guide will help you start the season strong.
Why Walleye and Pike Are Spring Fishing Favorites
- They’re cold-water predators — Unlike bass or panfish, walleye and pike don’t mind icy water.
- They spawn early and feed hard after — After spawning in April/May, both species go into full feeding mode.
- They hang shallow — In early spring, fish come close to shore. That’s good news if you’re fishing from land.
- They hit hard — Both species give aggressive, satisfying strikes — perfect for anglers of all skill levels.
Beginner Mistake: Fishing Too Deep, Too Fast
A common error in early-season fishing is assuming the fish are deep because the water is cold. In reality, pike and walleye often cruise shallow bays, creek mouths, or current seams right after ice-out, especially where the sun warms the water fastest.
Also: don’t speed up your retrieve like it’s summer. In cold water, slow it down. Think lift-pause-drop with jigs or a slow, steady retrieve with crankbaits. Give the fish time to react.
Top 3 Lures That Work in Cold Canadian Softwater
1. Jig & Minnow Combo (Walleye Classic)
Walleye love this setup in spring. Use a 1/4 oz jig head with either a live minnow or soft plastic swimbait. Bounce it slowly near the bottom in 4–12 feet of water.
Great pick from AnglersBox.ca: Walleye Jig Combo
2. Spinnerbaits (Perfect for Pike in Weeds)
Slow-roll a spinnerbait through shallow bays, dead reeds, or near flooded brush. The flash and thump pull big pike out of hiding. Also great in murky water after spring rains.
Find this here: Mean Machine 4.0
3. Suspending Jerkbaits
These lures mimic injured baitfish — a key trigger in cold water. Cast, jerk twice, then pause. Sometimes the pause is when the strike comes.
Try them near: drop-offs, rocky points, or current seams.
Find this here: Abuelo 120
How to Use Them (Tactics & Retrieval Tips)
- Jigs: Let them hit bottom, then lift-pause-drop. Fish may hit on the fall. Use a slower retrieve than in summer.
- Spinnerbaits: Use a slow, steady retrieve. Pause near structure. Fish will often strike just before you lift the lure out.
- Jerkbaits: Twitch-twitch-pause. Extend pauses in cold water. Adjust cadence until you find what triggers bites.
Where to Fish in Early Spring
- Shallow, sun-warmed bays: Look for dark-bottomed flats and marshy areas.
- Creek mouths and current seams: Inflowing streams bring warmer water and baitfish.
- Windblown shorelines: Wind pushes bait and warmer surface water to one side of a lake. Fish follow.
- Structure near spawning sites: Pike and walleye often stay near their spawning zones before moving deep.
Bonus Tip: Be Ready for Mixed Weather
Early season fishing means variable conditions. Wear layers, bring rain gear, and pack gloves. Fish often bite best after a few sunny days warm the shallows, but don’t rule out a windy, overcast afternoon — especially for walleye.
Shop now at AnglersBox.ca and hit the water ready to catch.