What’s the secret to pulling those frosty, feisty Walleye through a tiny hole in the ice? Many anglers stare down at their tackle box, overwhelmed by the sheer variety of jigs, spoons, and brightly colored plastics. Winter fishing can be tough, and using the wrong lure often means a long, cold day with nothing to show for it but numb fingers. It feels like every time you switch tactics, the fish disappear!
Choosing the perfect ice fishing lure for Walleye is more than just grabbing the shiniest thing; it’s about matching the depth, water clarity, and what the fish are actively feeding on. We understand the frustration of watching other anglers catch fish while your line stays stubbornly still. That’s why we dove deep into the best tools for the job.
Inside this guide, you will learn exactly which lures trigger those aggressive bites, how to fish them effectively, and the key differences between top-performing options. Get ready to swap those frustrating blank stares for successful hooksets. Let’s break down the must-have Walleye lures that will fill your ice shack with action this season!
Top Walleye Lures Ice Fishing Recommendations
- The Northland Thumper Spoon is a go-to ice fishing lure when you need more flash, flutter, and finesse. Its thin, bent brass profile and micro flicker blade provide unmatched action, perfect for drawing strikes in tough winter fishing conditions.
- Made from premium stamped brass with strategically placed bends, the Thumper Spoon creates a unique fluttering action on the fall, imitating a wounded baitfish. This irresistible motion attracts fish from both clear and stained waters, increasing your chances of getting bites.
- An added flutter blade delivers extra flash and vibrationoffering a highly effective presentation that triggers aggressive strikes from species like walleye, crappie, perch, bluegill, trout, bass, and more, even in the toughest conditions.
- Available in 10 vibrant match-the-hatch color options, ranging from natural baitfish patterns for clear water to long-lasting glow-in-the-dark designs for nighttime or murky water, this lure allows you to adapt to any fishing scenario with ease.
- Outfitted with ultra-sharp treble hooks, the Thumper Spoon is designed to catch a wide variety of species. Available in four sizes—1/16 oz, 1/8 oz, 3/16 oz, and 1/4 oz—it's perfect for fishing at different depths. Tested and trusted by professional anglers, this lure is built to perform.
- Beads and disk provide flash, sound and water displacement for maximum fish attraction
- Dropper chain separates hook from lure to catch more fish in neutral or negative moods
- A variety of proven fish catching color combinations
- When vertically jigged this lure creates flashes, sound and water displacement stimulating the fish's lateral line attracting Perch, Crappies, Walleye, Trout, Whitefish and more from great distances
- 1 per pack
- An essential lure on the water and under the ice alike, the Northland Fishing Tackle Puppet Minnow will get the job done on just about any species of fish. Built to imitate the action of a darting minnow, this lure darts upward on the lift and swims in a semi-circle during freefall.
- This ice fishing and open water fishing bait is perfect for all species of fish including bull bluegills, perch, walleyes, crappies, pike, and trout year-round. It can be fished in a variety of different ways to get bit in any situation. Rip it up and down vertically, cast it out and pop it back, or slowly raise and lower it to give it a rocking motion that fish can’t resist.
- Northland fishing and ice fishing jigs are made with quality components, so you can fish with confidence no matter what bites. The Puppet Minnow doesn’t miss many fish with two stout jigs on the front and back, plus a treble hook on the bottom. You can fish this jig plain or tip your bottom treble with a minnow head!
- The Puppet Minnow from Northland Fishing Tackle is a lights out lure for anglers everywhere. Available in small ⅛ Oz sizes that can entice panfish all the way up to 1 Oz variations that will seal the deal on pike and lake trout, there’s a Puppet Minnow for any situation. This darting jig is available in five total sizes and fifteen different colors, including UV and Glo options that work well in low light or ice fishing conditions.
- This lure was tested and trusted by the team at Northland Fishing Tackle, and professional anglers across the country. Northland Fishing Tackle has been delivering quality fishing tackle to anglers nationwide for decades. Every Northland Tackle product is designed by fishermen for quality conscious anglers that demand the best in their fishing gear.
- UNIQUE LOOK AND SOUND: The Glass Buck Shot Ice Fishing Spoon features a realistic and translucent “Glass” baitfish pattern, and offers a new and distinct loud sound for ice anglers. It flutters, flashes, and rattles to entice fish to bite, and is sure to call in everything from hungry walleyes to curious perch. This spoon is essential fishing equipment for every ice fishing jig box.
- PREMIUM CONSTRUCTION: The Glass Buck-Shot Spoon features a realistic eye and is constructed of a durable lead frame, features a high pitched glass rattle, and is entirely encased in a clear hard resin. Premium and sharp treble hooks attach to the spoon with a small split ring, ensuring you’ll never lose a fish whether ice fishing for walleye, perch, bluegill, or trout.
- CHIP-FREE: Maintaining the fish-catching flash on any lure is important for maximizing the bite. The unique resin that encases this ice fishing bait eliminates paint-chips, even when fishing rocks, and will keeps your bait looking brand new for years to come.
- GREAT FOR ALL SPECIES: This quality jigging spoon will catch all species of fish in the winter including walleye, perch, sauger, bluegill, crappie, and just about anything else that swims. This spoon is available in 10 different fish-catching colors and three sizes, so you’ll be ready to hit the ice and catch fish on any body of water.
- TESTED AND TRUSTED: This lure was tested and trusted by the team at Northland Fishing Tackle, and professional anglers across the country. Northland Fishing Tackle has been delivering quality fishing tackle to anglers nationwide for decades. Every Northland Tackle product is designed by fishermen for quality conscious anglers that demand the best in their ice fishing gear.
- Features highly detailed paint and solid bright coating and 8 pieces of them are luminous in the dark
- 12 pieces ice fishing jig spoons with 3D holographic eyes and exquisite coating
- Tip it with a wax worm, small minnow, maggots or plastic bait to attract more fishes
- Bonus a quality reusable utility box that keep your lures well organized
- Assorted ice fishing spoons kit make it a perfect selection for fishing for perch, walleye and pike
- RATTLING ICE FISHING SPOONS BUILT-IN RATTLE STEEL BALL: DOVESUN ice fishing jigs with built-in 2 steel balls rattle chamber on one side. Exposed rattle chamber delivers delicate and natural Low-Frequency noise. Deadly attraction for distant schools of walleye and perch. Fish will come close and smash the bait. Outperforms other ice fishing spoons. NOTE: Only 3 types of spoons can rattle!
- ALL GLOW IN THE DARK ICE FISHING LURES: All Ice fishing gears are coated with fluorescent paint. Shine brighter and glow longer. Perfect for ice fishing, where extra brightness makes all the difference. Glows in deep water, at night, or under the ice — hungry fish can't resist Dovesun ice fishing gear. NOTE: When you receive the package, please put it under light for a few minutes, and it will glow brightly in the dark.
- ATTRACTIVE LIFELIKE ICE FISHING JIGS: Coated with bright holographic paint, packed with plenty of reflective sequins. Ice fishing lures reflect more light for a stronger, brighter flash. Even in shallow water, it pulls fish in from farther away. Featuring a 3D lifelike baitfish design that looks truly alive. Walleye go nuts for it! Highly attractive and durable ice fishing gear makes the perfect fishing gifts for men.
- SHARP CUTTING HOOK POINT TREBLE HOOKS: Dovesun ice fishing spoons feature upgraded Red-Plated Treble Hooks. Improved corrosion resistance and durability. Perfect for freshwater and saltwater fishing. 3x strong high-carbon steel for greater strength, Sharp cutting hook point for faster piercing. With red treble hooks, ice fishing lures move like a wounded baitfish, keeping fish relaxed and triggering strikes. Let's bring fish to the hook with this ultimate ice fishing gear.
- ICE FISHING SPECIES KILLER-LIFELIKE ACTION: 4 types of ice fishing spoons create different amazing action on the drop, falls, flash, wobbles, flutters, and quakes like a baitfish, an irresistible target for hungry walleye, bass, trout, perch, panfish, crappie. Used ice fishing jigs during fall and winter fishing for vertical fishing. Provide anglers with a fun fishing experience!
- Various Sizes & Colors Ice Fishing Lures: A variety sizes of ice fishing lures and colors gives anglers options to adapt to fishing conditions. Two Ice Fishing Jig Kit to Choose: 6PCS, 20pcs.
- Glow in Dark: Ice fishing jigs have luminous effects, Great for darker water and low-light conditions, the micro ice jigs have the ability to attract fish from a wider area. Note: When using luminous lures, please let it absorb enough light first.
- Ice Fishing Jigs With Organized Storage Box: With EVA foam pad keeps your jigs well organized.. Easy take in and easy take out with the jigs. Holds jigs securely in the box, which can protect the ice fishing jigs from collision and wear.
- High Sharpness: The hook can effectively ensure the continuous sharpness of the hook tip after repeated grinding, and has a barb, reduce the probability of decoupling, increase the possibility of catching.
- Best Fishing Gift for Angler: A Great Ice Fishing Gifts for lover! A variety sizes and colors of ice fishing lures gives anglers options to adapt to fishing conditions.
- Introducing the Tungsten Slim Spoon—the ultimate bait delivery system for ice fishing. Crafted from dense tungsten with a super-thin profile, this lure sinks rapidly and delivers the action and flash needed to attract all species of fish.
- Being 70% denser than lead, tungsten allows the spoon to descend swiftly to the bottom—crucial when the fish are biting. Its high density also provides a clearer return on your flasher or live sonar, enhancing bite detection.
- The lure's flat sides and reflective finish generate extra flash to trigger strikes. With a variety of color options—from natural baitfish patterns for clear water to vibrant, super-glow designs for nighttime or murky conditions—you can tailor your presentation to any situation.
- Equipped with ultra-sharp treble hooks, this lure is designed to catch a wide range of species, including walleye, perch, sauger, bluegill, crappie, trout, bass, and more. Available in 12 fish-catching colors and three sizes (⅛ oz, ¼ oz, and ⅜ oz), it's suitable for any body of water.
- Tested and trusted by Northland Fishing Tackle and professional anglers nationwide, this lure embodies quality and performance. With decades of experience, Northland designs products for anglers who demand the best in their gear.
The Ultimate Ice Fishing Walleye Lure Buying Guide
Ice fishing for walleye is exciting! Catching these beautiful fish in the cold requires the right gear. Choosing the best walleye ice fishing lures makes a huge difference. This guide helps you pick the perfect tools for your next trip.
Key Features to Look For in Walleye Lures
Good walleye lures have specific traits that attract fish, even in dark or deep water. Pay attention to these features when shopping.
1. Vibration and Action
Walleye often find food using their lateral line, which senses movement. Lures that create strong vibrations are very effective. Look for lures designed to wobble or dart quickly when you jig them up and down. This movement mimics a wounded baitfish.
2. Flash and Reflection
Sunlight doesn’t travel far through ice and water. Therefore, lures need to catch whatever light is available. Metal spoons or lures with reflective silver or gold finishes work well. They flash as they move, drawing the walleye’s eye.
3. Color Selection
Color matters a lot! Bright colors like chartreuse or orange work great in dirty or shallow water. In clear, deep water, natural colors such as silver, white, or black are often better. Always bring a variety of colors.
4. Scent Attraction
Some modern lures include holes for adding liquid attractants or are pre-soaked with scent. Scent helps convince a hesitant walleye to commit to the bite. This is a great feature for slow fishing days.
Important Materials Used in Walleye Lures
The material of a lure affects how it sinks, how long it lasts, and how it moves underwater.
- Metal (Lead, Tungsten, Brass): Metal is heavy. This allows the lure to sink fast to deep water. Tungsten is often preferred because it is denser than lead, meaning the lure can be smaller while still being heavy.
- Plastics and Soft Baits: These are often used as trailers on jigs. They add extra movement and texture. Quality soft plastics resist tearing when a fish bites hard.
- Hooks: Sharp, high-quality steel hooks are essential. Dull hooks often miss strikes. Ensure the hooks are strong enough not to bend when you hook a large walleye.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Lure Quality
Not all jigs are made the same. A few simple details can separate a great lure from a frustrating one.
Improving Quality:
- Strong Eyelets: The small loop where you tie your line must be strong and smooth. Rough edges fray your line quickly.
- Durable Paint Jobs: Good lures have paint baked on that resists chipping from hitting the ice or the bottom of the lake.
Reducing Quality:
- Cheap Hardware: Split rings or swivels that rust easily will fail when you need them most.
- Poor Balance: A poorly balanced jig will not fall correctly. It might spin or hang up instead of darting naturally.
User Experience and Use Cases
How you use the lure changes what you should buy. Think about where and how you fish.
Vertical Jigging (The Standard Approach)
This is the most common technique. You drop the lure straight down your hole and quickly pull it up a few inches, then let it fall. For this, you need slender, fast-falling jigs or spoons. They need to flutter enticingly on the drop.
Rippling and Trolling Under the Ice (Slower Speeds)
Sometimes walleye are sluggish. You might need a lure that moves slowly but still catches attention. Larger, flatter spoons or lipped crankbaits designed for ice fishing work here. They create a slow, wide wobble.
Fishing Depth
If you fish very deep (over 30 feet), heavy tungsten jigs are a big advantage. They save you time getting down to where the fish are holding.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Walleye Ice Fishing Lures
Q: What is the best general color for walleye ice fishing lures?
A: White, silver, and chartreuse are the most reliable colors across many water conditions.
Q: Should I use live bait with my ice fishing lures?
A: Yes! Tipping your jig or spoon with a minnow head or a small plastic grub significantly increases your chances of a strike.
Q: How big should my walleye jig be?
A: Most anglers use jigs between 1/8 ounce and 1/2 ounce. Smaller jigs work for shallow water; heavier ones work for deep water.
Q: Are expensive lures really better?
A: Sometimes. Expensive lures often use better materials like tungsten, which performs better than cheap lead. However, a well-tied, simple jig can still catch fish.
Q: How do I make my lure vibrate more?
A: Use a shorter, faster jigging motion. Also, try lures specifically designed with wider bodies, as these move more water.
Q: When should I use a spoon versus a jig?
A: Spoons are great for covering more water vertically and catching fish that chase fast-moving targets. Jigs are better for subtle action and holding right in the strike zone.
Q: What is “fluttering action”?
A: Fluttering is when the lure wobbles slightly as it falls back down after you lift it. This falling action is often when walleye strike.
Q: Do I need special line for ice fishing lures?
A: A thin, low-stretch braid or fluorocarbon line is best. This lets the lure move exactly as intended without too much drag.
Q: Are scented lures necessary?
A: No, they are not strictly necessary, but they help immensely when the bite is slow or the water is murky.
Q: How often should I change my lure?
A: If you fish in one spot for 15 minutes without a single tap, change your lure color or style. Walleye can be picky!