10 Best Walleye Trolling Lures: Lifelike & Versatile

Toying with a rod for trophy-sized fish can be maddening without an effective tackle. Fishing gear is often debated and explored extensively.

Lures specifically designed to entice Walleye, one of North America’s most prized game species, require rigorous study from avid anglers.

How can fishermen successfully net their prey using tried-and-tested walleye trolling lures?

Do we need a rod-wielding fury fest when every moment counts?!

The truth is that finding the right lure can mean success or failure for your entire outing. It’s as simple yet vitalized, with most options proving themselves capable of drastically enhancing one’s luck.

This article offers expert advice and tested tools to take your Walleye angling experience soaring high!

Our Top 10 Picks

1. Rapala Super Shad Rap 14 Fishing lure
2. REEF Runner 800 Series Deep Divers
3. Rapala Shad Rap 07 Fishing Lures
4. Cotton Cordell Wally Diver Walleye Fishing Lure
5. Stinger Stinger Copper Smooth Lure
6. Bandit Walleye Minnow Jerkbait Fishing Lure
7. Moonshine Lures Walleye Spoons
8. Storm Deep ThunderStick MadFlash Fishing Lure
9. Berkley® Walleye Spinner Rig Making
10. Storm Hot N Tot MadFlash 05 Fishing Lure

Top 3 Most Favourite

See also: Top 5 Best Trolling Lures In 2023

1. Rapala Super Shad Rap 14 Fishing lure

If you plan on targeting walleye, the Rapala Super Shad Rap 14 fishing lure is a must-have in your tackle box. The lure’s natural baitfish profile and lifelike patterns make it irresistible to walleye.

The heavy-duty hardware and hooks ensure you won’t lose your catch, while the super tough African Abachi wood and stainless through-wire construction make it durable enough to withstand the toughest fights.

This lure is deadly not just for walleye but also for northern pike, musky, largemouth bass, striped bass, peacock bass, fat walleyes, Nile perch, tarpon, blue fish, tuna, kings, and other monster freshwater and saltwater species.

The VMC black nickel hooks and hand-tuned, tank-tested tuning ensure that the lure fishes perfectly right out of the box, and its natural swimming action at any speed makes it a versatile option for trolling or casting.

Overall, the Rapala Super Shad Rap 14 fishing lure is reliable and effective for any angler looking to catch serious fish.

Pros:

• Natural baitfish profile and lifelike patterns make it irresistible to fish
• Heavy-duty hardware and hooks ensure that you won’t lose your catch
• Super tough African Abachi wood construction and stainless through wire construction make it durable
• Versatile option for trolling or casting
• Deadly for a variety of freshwater and saltwater species

Cons:

• Some anglers may find the price to be a bit high compared to other options
• The lure’s size may not be suitable for all fishing situations
• You may need time to familiarize yourself with the lure’s swimming action and how it works.

2. REEF Runner 800 Series Deep Divers

We seek a reliable and versatile fishing lure to catch various freshwater and saltwater species. Look no further than the Reef Runner 800 Series Deep Divers.

These lures are perfect for casting and trolling for big fish like walleye and come in various colors to suit your preferences. With dimensions of 8.54 x 5 x 1.5 inches and a weight of just 0.03 kilograms, these lures are easy to handle and transport, making them ideal for fishing trips.

The Reef Runner 800 Series Deep Divers are made by Reef Runner, a trusted brand in the fishing industry. They feature a modern style and come in color Barbie Bare Naked.

These lures are designed specifically for catching walleye and have a grip size of Array. They are also suitable for crankbaits and stick-baits and are available at a discounted price with coupon codes like BlackFriday18 and holidaysale19.

However, it’s worth noting that some customers have reported issues with hook strength and packaging, so be sure to take care when handling these lures.

Pros:

• A versatile lure that can catch a variety of freshwater and saltwater species
• Perfect for casting and trolling for big fish like walleye
• Made by a trusted brand in the fishing industry
• It comes in a range of colors to suit your preferences
• Easy to handle and transport

Cons:

• Some customers have reported issues with hook strength and packaging
• Grip size may not be suitable for all anglers
• Not suitable for all types of fishing techniques

3. Rapala Shad Rap 07 Fishing Lures

You’ll love the versatility and legendary action of the Rapala Shad Rap 07 fishing lure. It’s perfect for targeting bass with ultra-slow to super-fast speeds. This hand-tuned and tank-tested lure boasts a natural baitfish profile and a wounded minnow action that freshwater big game fish find highly attractive.

Made of balsa wood and tested in water before packaging, the Rapala Shad Rap 07 is designed to be fished by casting. It can replace treble hooks with single in-line hooks without affecting depth or action.

This lure is suitable for trolling steelhead and walleye in the 5 to 10 range with a ten # line and can be taken down to 36 feet while trolling using the 50+2 method.

It comes in various colors, including Crawdad, Gold, Silver, Perch, Shad colors, and FireTiger UV. The Rapala Shad Rap 07 is also great for bass, crappies, and even bluegill. This lure is a must-have in every angler’s tackle box at a great value and price.

Pros:

• Hand-tuned and tank-tested at the factory
• Natural baitfish profile and legendary wounded minnow action
• Designed for ultra-slow to super-fast speeds
• Can replace treble hooks with single in-line hooks without affecting depth or action
• Suitable for trolling steelhead and walleye in the 5 to 10 range with a ten-line
• It comes in a variety of colors
• Made of balsa wood and tested in water before packaging
• Highly attractive to freshwater big game fish
• Great for bass, crappies, and even bluegill
• Great value at a great price

Cons:

• It may not be as effective for saltwater fishing
• It may not be as durable as other fishing lures on the market

4. Cotton Cordell Wally Diver Walleye Crankbait Fishing Lure

If you’re searching for a versatile and tournament-caliber crankbait that can catch more than just walleye, the Cotton Cordell Wally Diver is the perfect addition to your tackle box. But have you ever wondered what makes this lure so effective on the Great Lakes and other walleye waters?

The answer lies in its slender profile and tight wiggle, which mimics the natural movement of baitfish and triggers a predatory response from hungry walleye.

Additionally, the Wally Diver can reach depths of up to 20 feet when trolled, making it an ideal choice for anglers who want to cover a wide range of water depths and conditions.

But that’s not all – the Wally Diver also boasts a unique feature that sets it apart from other crankbaits on the market. When paused, it sits motionless in the water, teasing fish and enticing them to strike. This makes it an excellent choice for slow trolling, jigging, casting, and retrieving.

With a wide variety of color patterns and top-quality components, the Wally Diver is a reliable and durable choice for any angler looking to catch more walleye and other gamefish.

Pros:

• Versatile and tournament-caliber crankbait that can catch more than just walleye
• Slender profile and tight wiggle mimic the natural movement of baitfish
• Capable of reaching depths of up to 20 feet when trolled
• A unique feature of sitting motionless on the pause teases fish and entices strikes
• A wide variety of color patterns are available
• Durable Cordell construction and top-quality components

Cons:

• Some anglers may find the price point to be higher than other crankbaits on the market
• Suspending model may not be as effective in certain fishing conditions compared to other models

5. Stinger Stinger Copper Smooth UV Blue Tux 3.75

As an angler, consider adding the Stinger Copper Smooth UV Blue Tux 3.75′ to your fishing equipment collection. This product boasts impressive performance and honors the tradition of family-run businesses with rich histories and a passion for natural escape.

The Stinger is a top-quality fishing lure perfect for catching walleye. It has a unique design that makes it stand out from other lures in the market.

The Copper Smooth UV Blue Tux 3.75′ color is designed to attract walleye in different water conditions. The lure’s unique design produces a lifelike swimming action that mimics the movement of baitfish, making it irresistible to walleye.

The Stinger Copper Smooth UV Blue Tux 3.75′ is made of high-quality materials designed to withstand the rigors of fishing. It is durable, long-lasting, and can be used in different fishing conditions.

The lure’s small size makes it easy to cast, and its weight allows it to reach deeper waters. The Stinger is also easy to use, perfect for experienced and novice anglers.

This lure is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a high-quality walleye trolling lure that is both effective and versatile.

Pros:

• Lifelike swimming action that mimics the movement of baitfish
• Easy to use and perfect for both experienced and novice anglers
• Made of high-quality materials and designed to withstand the rigors of fishing

Cons:

• It may not be as effective in heavily weeded areas.
• It may not be as effective in clear water.
• It may not be suitable for larger species of fish.

6. Bandit Walleye Minnow Jerkbait Fishing Lure

The Bandit Walleye Minnow Jerkbait Fishing Lure is a versatile and effective addition to any angler’s collection. The slender minnow/jerk bait design catches fish on both sides of the big pond, including walleyes, bass, pike, zander, and other predator fish.

It was designed by walleye fishing experts and featured universal color patterns for wide-ranging effectiveness that work anywhere.

The trio of harsh trebles and piercing 3D eyes provide a sure target for catching fish, while the molded-in lip ensures true running toughness.

This lures trolls up to 27 feet deep, making it a great option for deepwater fishing. It’s no wonder this is the number one Bandit bait for Zander in Russia.

Overall, the Bandit Walleye Minnow Jerkbait Fishing Lure is a must-have for any angler looking to catch various predator fish.

Pros:

• Universal design and tough treble hooks provide a sure target for catching a variety of predator fish
• A versatile lure that catches fish on both sides of the big pond
• Designed in collaboration with walleye fishing experts

Cons:

• It may not be as effective for certain types of fish
• Some users may find the lure to be on the pricier side.
• It may require some skill and experience to use it effectively

7. Moonshine Lures Walleye Spoons

Were you looking for a versatile and effective addition to your fishing collection? Check out Moonshine Lures Walleye Spoons, with their 3-inch length and high-quality, super glow paint.

These spoons come in many colors and patterns, making finding the perfect match for your next fishing trip easy. The copper and nickel back provide an attractive flash in the water, while the approximately 0.04-pound weight ensures that the spoon will move smoothly through the water.

Target species include trout, salmon, northern pike, walleye, pike, and muskies, making these spoons a great option for any angler.

Moonshine Lures Walleye Spoons have received high customer ratings, with a 4.7 out of 5 stars rating based on 13 ratings. Additionally, these spoons are manufactured by Moonshine Lures, a well-respected brand in the fishing industry.

The spoons are Prop65 compliant for environmentally-conscious people, and a coupon is available for those looking to save money. However, it’s important to note that these spoons are sold individually, so you’ll need to purchase multiple packs if you want to stock up on this effective lure.

Pros:

• A large variety of colors and patterns to choose from
• High-quality, super glow paint for increased visibility in the water
• A versatile lure that can be used to target multiple species

Cons:

• Sold individually, which can be more expensive for those looking to purchase multiple lures
• It may not be as effective in certain fishing conditions or locations
• Some anglers may prefer other types of lures or brands for targeting walleye specifically.

8. Storm Deep ThunderStick MadFlash Fishing Lure

Now that you’ve learned about Moonshine Lures Walleye Spoons, it’s time to look at another fantastic option for trolling walleye: the Storm Deep ThunderStick MadFlash Fishing Lure. This lure is modern, well-designed fishing equipment to help you catch more walleye on your next trip.

The Storm Deep ThunderStick MadFlash Fishing Lure is made from a blend of materials that give it durability and longevity. Its modern style is eye-catching and sure to attract walleye.

This lure is the perfect size for trolling with dimensions of 1 x 1 x 1 inches. It’s also lightweight, weighing in at only 0.02 kilograms. The lure is designed for casting and is suggested for use by both men and women.

Pros:

• Eye-catching modern design
• Durable and long-lasting
• Lightweight and easy to use
• Suggested for use by both men and women

Cons:

• It can be a bit costly

9. Berkley® Walleye Spinner Rig Making

If you’re an angler looking to customize your walleye rigs, the Berkley® Walleye Spinner Rig Making kit is a great option.

The kit includes 116 pieces, allowing you to create up to 15 rigs and 80 attractor beads in various colors. Various blades and beads are included, allowing you to create your unique rig.

The kit includes 6 Indiana blades of sizes 4 and 6, Indiana blades of sizes 2 and 4, Colorado blades of size 3, 15 easy change clevises, and five floats. The plastic beads come in assorted colors, and the kit is unisex-adult friendly.

The Berkley® Walleye Spinner Rig-Making kit is perfect for anglers who want to customize their rigs to their needs. However, the kit may be a bit pricey for some, and the plastic clevises may not rotate properly around the line. Additionally, there are limited bead size options.

Overall, the Berkley® Walleye Spinner Rig Making kit is a great investment for serious anglers who want to create their rigs and have the ability to customize them to their specific needs.

Pros:

• Allows for customization of walleye rigs
• Includes a variety of blades and beads
• It comes with 116 pieces

Cons:

• Expensive for something so simple
• Plastic clevises may not rotate properly around the line
• Limited bead size options

10. Storm Hot N Tot MadFlash 05 Fishing Lure

You’ll love the Storm Hot’ N Tot MadFlash 05 Fishing Lure. Its original erratic diving action is as unpredictable as a thunderstorm, making it irresistible to bass and other fish species.

The lure with an external scale pattern mimics real fish, making it even more attractive to fish in the water. Additionally, it’s available in holographic, painted, chrome, and UV finishes, giving you various options to match your preferred fishing environment.

The Storm Hot’ N Tot MadFlash 05 Fishing Lure comes with premium black nickel VMC hooks that ensure the fish won’t escape once hooked. Its classic and UV bright finish choices, 3-D holographic eyes, and highly sought-after design make it a must-have for experienced fishermen and collectors.

Moreover, its design makes it snagless, so you don’t have to worry about losing it while fishing. One user even caught a stringer of bass and crappie with it.

However, some users have experienced losing the lure while trolling.

Pros:

• Original erratic diving action that’s irresistible to fish
• External scale pattern for added realism
• Available in a variety of finishes to match your fishing environment
• Premium black nickel VMC hooks to ensure fish won’t escape
• Snagless design to prevent losing the lure while fishing

Cons:

• Some users have experienced losing the lure while trolling.

7 Factors to Consider When Buying a Walleye Trolling Lures

When buying a walleye trolling lure, there are several factors to consider.

First, you must decide on the type of lure, whether it’s a crankbait, spinner, jig, or something else.

You also need to consider the color of the lure, making sure it matches the baitfish in the area, as well as the size and weight of the lure, which should match the depth and speed of your trolling.

Additionally, consider the diving depth of the lure, its action in the water, its durability and quality, and its price, ensuring you get the best value for your money.

As an experienced angler, you know that choosing the right walleye trolling lure can make all the difference in your fishing success.

1. Type of lure (crankbait, spinner, jig, etc.)

Let’s dive into the different types of lures available for catching the elusive walleye in 2023.

First, crankbaits are a great option for trolling walleye, as they can mimic the natural movements of bait fish. The Rapala Shad Rap is a versatile and effective lure for trolling and casting. Its lifelike swimming action and realistic finishes make it a top choice for many anglers.

The REEF Runner 800 Series Deep Divers is another great option, with its neutral buoyancy and rattle chamber for easy detection by the fish. It’s perfect for trolling at slow speeds in deeper waters.

Spinners are also a popular choice for walleye trolling. The Rapala Shad Rap 07 Fishing Lures combines a jig and spinner effective for slow trolling in cold water.

It can be used with live bait such as nightcrawlers, minnows, or leeches to attract the fish. The Berkley Walleye Spinner Rig is a bottom bouncer with vibrantly-colored beads and spinners that can cover larger water areas.

Lastly, jigs are a versatile option used in various depths and structures. The Moonshine Lures Walleye Spoons is a blade bait with a big eye and true-to-life colors that can be used in deep structures to catch walleye.

In short, various lure types are available for catching walleye, each with unique benefits and uses. Whether you choose to use crankbaits, spinners, or jigs, it’s important to choose a lure that mimics the natural movements of bait fish and is effective in the waters you’ll be fishing.

With these expert recommendations, you’ll be well on your way to catching the trophy walleye of your dreams.

2. Color of the lure (matching the baitfish in the area)

To make your next walleye fishing trip a success, it’s important to choose a lure that matches the baitfish in the area, and the color of the lure can make all the difference in attracting those elusive fish.

When selecting a trolling lure, you want to consider the natural colors and patterns of the baitfish in the area. Here are three color options that are proven to be effective for attracting walleye:

1. Silver/Blue: This color combination mimics the natural color of many baitfish and is a great option for clear water.
2. Gold/Orange: This color combination is ideal for slightly murky water and mimics the colors of many crayfish and other bottom-dwelling creatures that walleye love to feed on.
3. Green/Chartreuse: This bright color combination is perfect for low-light conditions and is especially effective when fishing in deeper water. The bright colors will grab the walleye’s attention, even in murky water.

Choosing a lure with the right color can increase your chances of catching more walleye on your next fishing trip. Remember to match the color of your lure to the baitfish in the area and pay attention to the water conditions to make the most of your time on the water.

3. Size and weight of the lure (matching the depth and speed of trolling)

Matching the size and weight of your lure to the depth and speed of your trolling is crucial for attracting walleye on your next fishing trip. When trolling for walleye, selecting a lure that closely mimics the baitfish in the area is important.

However, it’s also important to consider the depth you’ll be fishing at and the speed at which you’ll be trolling.

For deeper waters, you’ll want to select a heavier lure that will sink quickly and maintain its depth throughout your trolling run. Lures with a larger size and weight will also help you achieve the desired depth.

On the other hand, if you’re trolling in shallower waters, a lighter lure will be more effective. It’s also important to consider the speed at which you’ll be trolling. A heavier lure will require a slower trolling speed, while a lighter one can be trolled faster.

By matching the size and weight of your lure to the depth and speed of your trolling, you’ll increase your chances of catching more walleye on your next fishing trip. Remember to experiment with different lure sizes and weights until you find the right combination for your fishing conditions.

Feel free to try different trolling speeds as well. Generally, a 1.5-2.5 mph trolling speed is ideal for catching walleye. By adjusting your lure size, weight, and trolling speed, you’ll be able to present your bait most naturally and appealingly possible, increasing your chances of success on the water.

4. Diving depth of the lure (matching the depth of the fish)

Oh, so you think you can plop any old lure into the water and expect to catch walleye? Think again, my friend. You need to consider the diving depth of your lure and match it to the depth of the fish if you want any chance of success on the water.

When trolling for walleye, choosing a lure that will dive to the correct depth is important. Here are some tips to help you match your lure to the depth of the fish:

• Look for lures that have a diving depth listed on the packaging or online. This will give you an idea of how deep the lure will swim.
• Consider the speed at which you’re trolling. A faster trolling speed will cause the lure to swim higher in the water column, while a slower speed will allow it to dive deeper.
• Pay attention to the depth at which you’re marking fish on your fish finder. This will give you an idea of the depth at which the walleye are feeding, and you can adjust your lure accordingly.

With these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to selecting the right lure and catching more walleye on your next fishing trip.

5. The action of the lure (how it moves in the water)

Have you ever wondered why some lures work better than others for catching walleye? One factor to consider is the lure’s action in the water. The way a lure moves can make it more attractive to walleye, especially when paired with the right size and color.

When trolling for walleye, you want a lure with realistic swimming action. Lures that wobble, dart, or flash erratically can trigger the predatory instinct of walleye and entice them to strike.

This is why lures like the Rapala Shad Rap and Storm ThunderStick are popular among anglers. They have a lifelike swimming action that mimics the movement of baitfish, making them irresistible to walleye.

Pay attention to the lure’s action when selecting the right one for your next walleye fishing trip.

6. Durability and quality of the lure (material and construction)

Now that you know about the different actions of walleye trolling lures, it’s time to explore their durability and quality. As an experienced angler, you know investing in high-quality gear is essential for a successful fishing trip.

Durability is crucial when it comes to trolling lures, as they need to withstand the constant movement and pressure of the water. The material and construction of the lure play a significant role in its durability and overall performance.

The best walleye trolling lures are made of high-quality materials like stainless steel, tungsten, and titanium. These materials are rust-resistant, durable, and provide excellent weight distribution. The lure’s construction should also be considered, as it affects its performance in the water.

Look for lures with strong hooks, sturdy split rings, and smooth finishes. These features will ensure that the lure can withstand the pressure of the fish and the water, making it a valuable investment for your fishing trips.

7. Price of the lure (value for money)

You won’t believe the incredible value you can get with these top-quality, durable trolling lures for catching walleye! While some may think that the more expensive lures are the best, it’s important to remember that price sometimes equates to quality.

Many affordable options on the market offer great value for their price and can catch just as many fish as their pricier counterparts.

For example, the Cotton Cordell Wally Diver is a classic walleye lure that has been around for decades and is known for its tight wiggling movement. It’s a versatile lure that can be trolled or cast and comes reasonably priced.

Similarly, Rapala Super Shad Rap 14 Fishing lure performs well at slower speeds and is a great option for those on a budget. Don’t let the price tag fool you; these lures are made with quality materials and built to last, giving you great value.

See also: Best Lures for Northern Pike

Conclusion

Take a chance with one of these best walleye trolling lures that offer lifelike and versatile performance on the water, to ensure success for your fishing endeavors.

Whether you’re after large fish populations or seeking to elevate your skills from recreational angling experiences… I bet these reels will never disappoint!

Frequently Asked Questions

See also: best Smallmouth Bass Lures of 2023