"ultimate spring bite temp."

[Olyolson]

At what water temperature do you guys think the "ultimate" spring walleye bite happens? Here on the Columbia River, I always think of the big fish pre-spawn bite at about 45-48 degrees. The male bite(quantity) at around 50-52 degrees. On the lakes for any size fish at about 50-52 degrees also.

[Walleye Express]

[b]OOOooooooo...Now Thats a Tuffy, Oly.

I've caught to many walleyes in pre-spawn mode, in water temps in the middle/to hign 30's to give it an acurate answer. But if I had to pick a water temp when Spring has officially started, it to would be after it warms into the low 50's and the spawn is in full swing.

That's also the key temperature of acceptability for me to begin using a variety of baits. That is, cranks, crawlers and jig tipped with twisters and minnows. Before this time, jigs and minnows worked slowly and mathodically is my mind set. Oh, I know it's been proven that they will bite on even cranbiats worked off three ways in fridgid water, but it's not my first choice on any bodies of water I fish during that time. The walleyes matbolism to activly chase things farther than their nose during these times (50's) is hightened in my experiences.

42-43 degrees is the number for the Detroit River. Brought to my attention a couple of years back by a friend from Tennessee who fishes with me often, and it seems to hold true. In fact, he tells me - call me when the water hits 42, and I'll be up the next day. Seems like I'll see him again around mid-April.
Scott DeLano
Walleye Connection Guide Svc