Top 5 Walleye Ice Lures: Best Picks Reviewed Now

Imagine staring down at a hole in the ice. The water below is dark and still. You know the big walleye are down there, but how do you get them to bite when the water is freezing cold? That is the real challenge of ice fishing!

Choosing the perfect lure for walleye in winter can feel like guessing in the dark. Should you use a jigging spoon, a rattle bait, or maybe a simple plastic twister? Every angler faces this struggle. The wrong lure means a long, cold day with no action. You want those flashy, aggressive bites, not just silence.

This guide cuts through the confusion. We will break down the top lures that consistently pull those hard-to-catch walleye up from the depths. You will learn exactly which lure works best in different conditions, saving you time and filling your bucket.

Get ready to sharpen your ice fishing game. Let’s dive into the must-have lures that turn frozen lakes into active fishing grounds.

Top Ice Fishing Lures For Walleye Recommendations

SaleBestseller No. 1
MUUNN Tungsten Ice Fishing Jigs Kit 45pcs More Effective Glow Tungsten Ice Fishing Lure Jigs for Crappie Panfish Walleye (Colorful (45pcs))
  • Tungsten Ice Fishing Jigs Kit: High-quality tungsten ice jigs are made of tungsten, tungsten is heavier than some other materials, which means you can use a much smaller ice jig and have the same weight. Utilizing tungsten allows each jig to have a significantly smaller profile which is preferred by finicky winter fish. The packaging: 45pcs tungsten ice jigs and 1 pcs jig box. 15pcs 3.2mm (0.5g), 15pcs 4.0mm (1.0g), 15pcs 5.0mm(1.85g); box size: 5.45x3.77x0.7 in
  • UV Glow in Dark: 45 pcs of teardrop tungsten ice fishing jigs with ultra-sharp hooks and paint-free eyes. Glows brightly! These tungsten ice jigs glow very well, Bionic color coating and excellent luminous effect provide constant fish-enticing action. These tungsten ice fishing lure jigs will glow in the dark and work very well in dark water and low light conditions. The glowing surface will better evoke the vision of large predators
  • Increase Hook-Up Rate: Superb quality premium Japanese hooks, and tungsten ice jigs are proven killers for panfish through the ice. Attractive high quality glossy paint bionic color coating, realistic 3D eyes, and excellent luminous effect provide constant fish-enticing action. These tungsten ice fishing lure jigs are perfect for fishing bluegill, crappie, perch, and even bass trout. Hook into more fish with muunn tungsten ice jigs!
  • Waterproof Jig Box: Put the glow tungsten ice fishing jig in the jig box for better carrying and storage, more convenience and safety, bring a better ice fishing experience. MUUNN Jig box is made of sturdy and solid PC+ABS well-sealed with rubber gaskets offering effectively waterproof performance to keep your jig dry
  • A Great Value Gift: Tungsten ice jigs are regarded as the best for ice jigging due to their optimal size-to-weight ratio. You can give them as ideal gifts for your families or friends who love ice fishing to enjoy an enjoyable time. Ask any tournament angler or serious pan fisherman - tungsten is the only way to go! If you want to get more other tungsten ice jigs or kits for ice fishing, please visit our MUUNN store, we have a very large selection. MUUNN FISHING STORE
SaleBestseller No. 2
Ice Fishing Jigs Luminous Ice Fishing Lures Glowing Jig Gear Winter Fishing Jigging for Crappie Pike Panfish Walleye Perch Bluegill 6pcs/20pcs (A-6PCS)
  • 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.
Bestseller No. 3
Northland Tackle Ice Fishing Thumper Spoon, Stamped Brass Flutter Spoon Ice Fishing Lure for Walleye, Crappie, & More, 10 Colors, Super-Glo Wonderbread, 3/16 Oz
  • 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.
Bestseller No. 4
Bombite 52Pcs Ice Fishing Lures Ice Fishing Jigs Kit Glowing Paint Ice Fishing Jig Heads for Crappie Trout Perch Walleye Ice Fishing Gear
  • 【Variety of Shapes】The 48 drop water shape ice fishing lures can be sunk or suspended at the most efficient volume,and the 4 balancing jigs are like a balanced minnow swimming in the water,you can choose them for your needs.
  • 【Sharp & Durable Jigs】The ice fishing jigs are made of quality lead and high carbon steel hooks with good construction,and the barbed hook point brings you a better penetration.
  • 【Attractive & Vibrant Colors】Neatly painted with different vibrant colors and parts of the ice fishing jigs are glow in the dark,all of the design make these jigs be a great addition to your winter tackle!
  • 【Great Gifts for Fisherman】Good crappie jigs,also suitable for walleyes, bass, trout, pike, panfish,perch and so on.Great gifts for Halloween,Christmas gift and the fisherman's birthday.
  • 【What You Will Get】This ice fishing lures kit includes 48 jig heads and 4 balancing jigs,in total 52 pcs ice fishing jigs.Different shapes and weights will meet your needs.
Bestseller No. 5
Dovesun 15PCS Rattling Glow Ice Fishing Spoons Kit for Bass, Crappie, Panfish, Perch, Trout, Walleye
  • 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!
SaleBestseller No. 6
THKFISH Ice Fishing Lures Ice Fishing Jigs Ice Fishing Gear Hard Fishing Lures Ice Fishing Kit Crappie Panfish Jigs 26pcs
  • DROP WATER SHAPE ICE FISHING LURES: Drop-water shape and lead material. 6 different kinds of fishing jigs, total 26pcs. The life-like swimming action is effective in freshwater and saltwater fishing. Fishing jigs Swim in tantalizing circles to stir up deep or suspended game fish. Produces some slobs, good all around action. Vivid colors will bring amazing response and more attractive to fishing targets.
  • BALANCED DESIGN FISHING JIGS: Balanced design with a minnow profile. Realistic raised-fin attachment eye. Body coating with vivid pattern and bright color. Great for darker water and low-light conditions, the innovative jigs have the ability to attract fish from a wider area. Jig head features premium solid colors and highly detailed paint finishes that replicate natural colorization process keeping the hook bright and attractive to both freshwater and saltwater fish!
  • SHARP AND DURABLE FISHING JIGS: The hook is sharp and durable. Heavy duty fishing jigs drop quickly. Made of high quality carbon steel which gives the lure its weight. The weight makes it especially effective when the fish are a little deeper. Works great when on dirt, rock, or gravel bottom. The mechanically-sharpened barbed hook point ensures a better penetration and increases the hook-ups.
  • GREAT ASSORTMENT OF SIZES: Small Jigs: 1/25oz*6pcs, 1/16oz*4pcs, 1/12oz*4pcs, 1/11oz*4pcs, Fish Shape Jigs: 1/3oz*4pcs, 2/3oz*4pcs. Great for ice fishing. Part of jigs are glow in the dark. Use for suspended fish or on bottom. Jig heads lures can catch a wide range of fish, deadly for walleyes, bass, trout, pike, crappies, Panfish, bluegill, yellow perch, etc.
  • WONDERFUL FISHING JIGS FOR ANGLERS: All the fishing jigs are made of lead material and high carbon steel hook. Package include: 26pcs ice fishing lures, 6 different kinds of fishing jigs + 1 plastic box. Great fishing jigs to "activate" the fish!
Bestseller No. 7
BASSDASH Ice Fishing Lure Kit Glowing Paint Jigs for Winter Ice Jigging Crappie Sunfish Perch Walleye Pike with Tackle Box
  • Features highly detailed paint and solid bright coating and 24 pieces of them are luminous in the dark
  • This ice jigging kit includes 6 balancing jigs, 2 vibrating bait, 4 spoons and 18 jig heads - 30 pieces in total
  • Tip it with a wax worm, small minnow or plastic bait to attract more fishes
  • Bonus a quality reusable utility box with adjustable compartments that keeps your lures well organized
  • Assorted ice fishing lures make it a perfect selection for fishing for perch, walleye and pike
Bestseller No. 8
BASSDASH Ice Fishing Lure Kit Glowing Paint Jigs for Winter Ice Jigging Crappie Sunfish Perch Walleye Pike with Tackle Box (BI06-12pcs Assorted Perch/Walleye/Pike jigs)
  • 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

The Ultimate Buying Guide for Ice Fishing Lures Targeting Walleye

Catching walleye through the ice is an exciting challenge. Choosing the right lure makes all the difference. This guide helps you select the best tools for your next winter fishing trip.

Key Features to Look For in Walleye Ice Lures

When picking a lure, focus on what attracts the walleye in cold, dark water. These features matter most:

1. Action and Vibration
  • Jigging Action: The lure must flutter or dart when you lift and drop your rod. This movement mimics a wounded or fleeing baitfish.
  • Vibration: Some lures create subtle vibrations in the water. Walleye sense these movements even when visibility is low.
2. Profile and Size
  • Size Matters: Walleye often prefer smaller profiles in deep, clear, or very cold water. Look for lures between 1.5 to 3 inches long. Bigger baits work well in murky water or during active feeding frenzies.
  • Shape: Blade baits, spoons, and jigging raps are popular shapes that mimic minnows effectively.
3. Color and Visibility
  • Bright Colors: In dark or muddy water, use fluorescent or bright colors like chartreuse, orange, or glow-in-the-dark finishes.
  • Natural Colors: Clear water calls for more natural tones, such as silver, white, or perch patterns.

Important Materials for Durability and Performance

The material of your lure affects how it sinks, moves, and lasts against sharp walleye teeth.

Metal vs. Plastic
  • Metal (Lead, Tungsten, Brass): Metal lures sink fast, which is great for deep water. Tungsten is denser than lead, allowing for a smaller profile with the same weight. Metal spoons and blade baits often have the best action.
  • Plastic/Soft Baits: These are often used as trailers on metal jigs. They add scent and extra movement. Ensure any plastic tails are durable enough to withstand repeated strikes.
Hook Quality

Always check the hooks. High-quality, sticky-sharp treble or single hooks ensure you land more fish. Cheap, dull hooks lead to lost opportunities.

Factors That Improve or Reduce Lure Quality

Quality isn’t just about the price tag. Pay attention to these details:

Factors That Improve Quality
  • Finish Durability: Good paint jobs resist chipping when hitting the ice or the inside of a fish shanty.
  • Balanced Weighting: A well-balanced lure falls correctly in the water column, providing the intended action.
  • Component Integration: Split rings and swivels should be robust. Poorly made components break easily.
Factors That Reduce Quality
  • Flimsy Components: Thin wire hooks or weak connection points reduce your catch rate.
  • Inconsistent Action: If a lure spins or tips sideways instead of darting when jigged, its quality is low.

User Experience and Use Cases

Different situations require different lures. Think about where and how you fish.

Shallow Water Tactics (Less than 15 feet)

Use lighter jigs or smaller spoons. You want the lure to suspend longer in the strike zone. Slow, subtle jigging works best here.

Deep Water and Stained Water Tactics

Heavy jigs or blade baits are necessary to reach the bottom quickly. Use brighter colors so the walleye can see them in the low light.

Active vs. Passive Fish
  • Active Fish: Use lures with loud rattles or aggressive action to provoke a reaction strike.
  • Passive (Slow) Fish: Employ very small jigs tipped with live bait (like minnows or maggots) and let them sit still for long periods.

10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Walleye Ice Fishing Lures

Q: What is the single best color for walleye ice fishing?

A: There is no single best color. Start with natural silver or white. If that fails, switch to a bright color like chartreuse or glow-in-the-dark.

Q: Should I use a live minnow on my jig?

A: Yes. Tipping your jig or spoon with a small, lively minnow greatly increases your success, especially when walleye are being picky.

Q: What is the best material for deep water ice fishing?

A: Tungsten is excellent for deep water because it is heavy, allowing you to get down fast while keeping the lure size small.

Q: How fast should I jig my lure?

A: Jig slowly and deliberately. Lift the rod a few inches, let the lure fall naturally, and pause near the bottom or where you think the fish are holding.

Q: Are blade baits good for walleye?

A: Blade baits are very effective. They create a lot of vibration and flash, which walleye notice well in murky conditions.

Q: What size hook should I look for?

A: For most standard ice jigs, hooks in sizes #4, #6, or #8 work perfectly for average-sized walleye.

Q: Do glow-in-the-dark lures really work better?

A: They often do, especially during low-light periods (early morning, late evening) or in very deep, dark water. Charge them often with a small UV light.

Q: How often should I change my lure?

A: If you have not had a single bite after 15 minutes of consistent jigging, change your lure color or size. Keep experimenting!

Q: What is “dead sticking”?

A: Dead sticking is a technique where you set the rod down with the line slightly tight, letting the bait (often a jig tipped with live bait) sit motionless near the bottom.

Q: Are expensive, name-brand lures always better?

A: Not always. While quality materials help, a well-made, cheaper lure that has the right action and color for the day will always outperform an expensive lure that the fish ignore.