By Walleye Hunter |

Bull Shoals Lake is a popular walleye fishery in the Ozark Mountains of Arkansas and Missouri. During the winter months, walleye can be challenging to catch, but they can be found by targeting specific areas and using the right techniques.

Where to Find Winter Walleye on Bull Shoals Lake:

Winter walleye on Bull Shoals Lake can be found in a variety of areas, but they tend to congregate in deep water near structures and food. Some of the best places to look for winter walleye include:

  • Main lake points and ridges: Walleye often stage near main lake points and ridges in the winter, waiting for shad and other baitfish to come by, and deep water around deep shad balls.
  • Creek channels: Walleye will also follow creek channels into deep water in the winter. Look for areas where the creek channel crosses a main lake point or ridge.
  • Rock bluffs: Walleye also will hold along rock bluffs in the winter. Look for areas where the bluffs drop off into deep water.

When to Fish for Winter Walleye on Bull Shoals Lake in winter:

The best time to fish for winter walleye on Bull Shoals Lake is during the early morning and late evening hours. Walleye are most active during these times of day, especially when it is cloudy or windy. When walleye are deep, the fish can be found following large deep balls of shad, sunlight won't usually affect feeding patterns. These fish can usually be found near the bottom under the shad ball feeding on drop-outs. Follow the loons and shad! They know exactly where the bait fish are...

How to Fish for Winter Walleye on Bull Shoals Lake:

There are a variety of techniques that can be used to catch winter walleye on Bull Shoals Lake. Some of the most popular methods include:

Jigging: Jigging is another effective way to catch winter walleye. Use a heavy jig (1/2 ounce or more) and a minnow or plastic trailer. Jig vertically along the bottom, pausing the jig occasionally to let it fall.

Casting: Casting can also be effective for winter walleye. Use a casting jig or swimbait and cast to areas where you think walleye are holding. Be patient and work your lure slowly.

Vertical spoon, Ice jig, or Damaki Rig around active shad balls where there is feeding fish. Use electronics to locate shad balls that are actively being used for structure and food for feeding fish. The walleye will be just below the shad ball, possibly close to the bottom, and feed off of fall-outs. Spooning can be very effective in this situation.

 

Tips for Catching Winter Walleye on Bull Shoals Lake:

Here are a few tips for catching winter walleye on Bull Shoals Lake:

Use the right gear: Make sure you are using the right gear for the conditions. Use heavy line (10-12 pound test) and a good quality reel.

Be patient: Winter walleye can be slow to bite. Be patient and work your lures slowly.

Use electronics: Electronics can be a big help in finding winter walleye. Use a sonar unit to find fish holding near structure. Forward-facing sonar can be a great tool for fishing deep fish.

Dress warm: Winter fishing can be cold. Make sure you are dressed warmly and that you have all the necessary safety gear.

Conclusion:

Winter walleye fishing on Bull Shoals Lake can be challenging, but it can also be very rewarding. By following the tips above, you can increase your chances of success.

Additional Information

Here is some additional information about winter walleye fishing on Bull Shoals Lake:

Water temperature: Walleye prefers water temperatures in the 50-60 degree Fahrenheit range. In the winter, walleye can be found in water that is much deeper than in the summer.

Bait and forage: Walleye on Bull Shoals Lake primarily feed on shad. Other baitfish that walleye eat include minnows, perch, and crayfish.

Spawning: Walleye on Bull Shoals Lake typically spawn in the early spring, when water temperatures reach the mid-40s Fahrenheit.

Regulations: Be sure to check the latest fishing regulations for Bull Shoals Lake before you go fishing.

Here are some specific areas on Bull Shoals Lake that are known for good winter walleye fishing:

  • Main lake points:
  • Big Point
  • Turkey Point
  • Eagle Point
  • Indian Point
  • Creek channels:
  • White River channel
  • North Fork River channel
  • Crooked Creek channel
  • Big Creek channel
  • Rock bluffs:
  • Buffalo Bluff
  • Marble Bluff
  • Rock Creek Bluff
  • Indian Bluff

Here are some specific lures that are popular for winter walleye fishing on Bull Shoals Lake:

  • Damaki Rigs with 1/2 oz jig head
  • Ice Jigs
  • Spoons
Winter walleye on Bull Shoals Lake