Walleye fishing during the winter months is a hidden gem for anglers in North Georgia, especially around the new to full moon phase in February. For those looking for a challenge, this is your window.
When to Target Walleye: New to Full Moon in February
Unlike many other fish species that slow down as the cold sets in, walleye actually thrive in the chilly waters of winter. Their activity peaks around the new to full moon phase in February, making it the ideal time to head out to the waters.
The best time for targeting walleye is specifically from the new moon to the full moon. During this period, the fish are active and ready to bite, making it the perfect opportunity for those with patience to haul in a solid catch. The walleye are typically found in the shallows, where they gather in preparation for spawning.
This means February’s moon phase is a critical time. If you’re hoping to catch a walleye and enjoy some of the tastiest freshwater fish around, now is when you’ll have the best shot.
Where to Go: Navigating the Chestatee and Other Prime Locations
It’s not just about timing; where you fish is just as important. For those willing to brave the elements, the Chestatee River offers one of the most reliable spots for walleye during the winter. The river’s shallow waters near the mouth of the river are where the walleye congregate to spawn. You’ll need to take a sturdy boat—preferably an aluminum one. Navigating this stretch with a fiberglass bass boat could leave you with a lot of dents and scratches from hitting the rocky bed below.
If you’re headed to Chestatee, make sure you don’t shy away from the rougher areas. It’s here where the walleye are, often in large schools, making for an exciting fishing experience. The key is getting close to the rocks and shallow regions of the river.
Once you hit the right spot, expect to see thousands of walleye—ranging anywhere from 10 inches to 25 inches. Their numbers are staggering, and with the right technique, it’s a surefire way to pull in a full day’s catch. But the challenge isn’t just about finding the fish. If it’s been raining recently, the Chestatee’s waters could turn murky, which would make fishing difficult. On those days, it might be best to stay home or try a different location.
For those looking to mix things up, Carters Lake and Blue Ridge Lake are also prime walleye spots. These bodies of water experience similar patterns to Chestatee, and they provide the same potential for success during the moon phase. It’s all about the timing and the right spots.
The Perfect Gear: Light Tackle and Natural Bait
What’s the best way to catch these walleye? Light tackle is key, with unweighted rigs and natural baits. Many seasoned anglers swear by red wigglers or night crawlers. These worms are among walleye’s favorites, and a simple setup with minimal weight will get you the best results. If you’re more experienced or just want to mix things up, try using a few different baits to see what works best on any given day.
Why such simplicity? It’s because walleye are not particularly picky when it comes to food during the spawn. They’re focused on the act of spawning itself, so your chances of catching them are much higher when you use natural, appealing bait.
While many professional fishermen have their own setups, for recreational anglers, a simple and light approach works just fine. Whether you’re an old hand at fishing or just starting, this method ensures that you’ll leave with a catch worthy of bragging about.
Why It Works: Success of the Program and a Taste Test of Victory
There’s more to this winter walleye fishing success than meets the eye. Years ago, O’Neill Williams teamed up with the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to showcase a program that aimed to help re-stock mountain lakes and streams across North Georgia with walleye. The strategy involved trapping walleye in the spring to breed and release them back into the wild, where they would grow and thrive. The goal was to keep the walleye population steady and even increase their numbers, benefiting future generations of anglers.
That work paid off. Today, walleye are thriving in the region, and the fishing is as good as ever. Whether you’re heading out to the Chestatee, Carters Lake, or Blue Ridge, you’re likely to catch your limit and taste one of the most sought-after freshwater fish in North America.
It’s no wonder why walleye are considered the best-tasting freshwater game fish around. If you’re lucky enough to catch one, it’s sure to be a prize-worthy meal.
