The Best Jig Colors for Walleye: A Comprehensive Guide

By: FishUSA Staff

August 23, 2024

Walleye fishing often sparks debates among anglers, particularly when it comes to the best jig colors. With walleye's renowned vision, many anglers wonder: What colors do walleye see best? Does color truly impact fishing success? And what are the top jig colors for walleye? This guide will break down the science and practical tips behind choosing the best colors for walleye fishing, helping you make more informed decisions on the water.

Understanding Walleye Vision

Key Factors In Choosing Jig Colors for Walleye

Top Jig Colors for Walleye

Final Thoughts

Understanding Walleye Vision

Walleyes are known for their exceptional vision, especially in low-light conditions. Research has shown that walleyes see certain colors better than others. Specifically, they perceive yellow and orange most clearly, while blue and purple are harder for them to detect. However, this doesn’t mean you should only use yellow and orange jigs. The effectiveness of a jig color depends on several factors, including water clarity, light conditions, and the local forage.

Key Factors in Choosing Jig Colors for Walleye

Water Clarity

Water clarity is one of the most critical factors in determining the best jig color for walleye. The clearer the water, the more subtle and natural your jig color should be.

Clear Water

In clear water, "matching the hatch" becomes more important than choosing the most visible color. You’ll want to use natural colors that closely resemble the local forage. For example:

White Jigs: Ideal in the spring when shiners are spawning. A white VMC Bucktail Jig can mimic a shiner perfectly.
Yellowish or Perch-Like Colors: If walleyes are feeding on perch, a yellowish bait like a firetiger Rapala Jigging Rap can be effective.

Stained or Muddy Water

In dirtier water, walleyes rely less on sight and more on other senses. Bright, "gaudy" colors become essential to grab their attention.

Muddy Water: Opt for bright oranges, pinks, and reds. Metallic colors like gold and silver also work well, producing flash and vibration that walleyes can detect even in the murkiest conditions.
Stained Water: When the water is stained but not entirely muddy, metallic jigs or bright solid colors like orange or pink can be particularly effective.

Light Conditions

Light conditions significantly influence how visible certain colors are to walleyes.

Sunny Days

White and Metallic Jigs: On sunny days, white jigs or metallic options like silver and gold can reflect light well, making them more visible to walleyes in both clear and slightly stained water.

Cloudy Days

Bright Colors: In overcast conditions, bright colors such as orange, pink, and red tend to stand out more in the water, making them excellent choices for stained or muddy conditions.

Forage Base

Understanding the primary forage in the body of water you’re fishing can help you choose the right jig color. For example, if the local walleyes are primarily feeding on crayfish, a brown or reddish-brown jig might be more effective than a bright orange one. Check your state’s DNR website for gill net surveys that list the species of baitfish present in local waters.

Top Jig Colors for Walleye

White

White is arguably the most versatile jig color for walleye. It works well in clear, stained, and even muddy water conditions. Whether it’s sunny or cloudy, white consistently produces results, making it a reliable choice in almost any situation.

Yellow and Orange

Given that walleyes see yellow and orange the best, these colors are go-to choices for many anglers. They are particularly effective in clear to slightly stained waters.

Metallic (Gold and Silver)

Metallic jigs are excellent in stained or muddy water due to their reflective properties. They create a flash that can attract walleyes even in low visibility.

Bright Colors (Pink, Red, Orange)

Bright colors are essential for fishing in muddy waters or during overcast days. They stand out against the murky background, making it easier for walleyes to spot them.

Natural Colors (Brown, Green, Perch Patterns)

In clear water, natural colors that mimic local forage are often more effective than bright or flashy colors. These colors work best when walleyes are feeding on specific baitfish like perch or crayfish.

Final Thoughts

So, what is the best jig color for walleye? The answer depends on the specific conditions you’re fishing in. While color is an important factor, it’s not the only one. The profile, action, and speed of your bait often play a more significant role in your success. However, if you had to choose just one color, white is a solid all-around choice that works in a variety of situations.

Before your next fishing trip, make sure to stock up on a range of jig colors and focus on perfecting your presentation. By considering the water clarity, light conditions, and local forage, you’ll be better equipped to select the right jig color and catch more walleyes.

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