LITTLETON, Colo. — The early bid gets the worm, but for the next three weeks anglers are better off waiting until dusk. According to Tightline Outdoors owner and guide Nathan Zelinsky, you don’t need a boat to take advantage of the night bite.
“We’ve been having nights of 50 to 60 fish, and (we’re getting) some big fish. If you were chasing that elusive 10-pound walleye or 15-pound walleye, which are in these waters here (at Chatfield Reservoir) they’re only going to feed at night," says Zelinsky.
You don't even need a boat to take part in the fun.
“These big fish are up shallow in the water column, so they’re fair game for everyone," says Zelinsky. “Come down here. Jump on the shore (or) jump on a point and you’re going to have the same access to the same fish that we’re catching”
Zelinsky trolls with planer boards, which control the distance and depth his lures work.
With spawning season in full swing, here are two tips for hooking hungry walleye.
“Its all about that slender suspending style bait. You’re looking for a four to five inch bait (with) very mellow action. It's all about slow. Give 'em the meal, make it easy on the walleyes to take the bait," says Zelinsky.
Wondering why anyone would battle bitter cold, in the hopes of landing a trophy under the stars? Consider this: Nathan believes the best tasting Walleye are between 18 and 20 inches, anything else goes back into the water.