Walleye Facts
Walleye is the largest member of the perch family and has been known to reach 25 pounds. North of the border, the walleye is more commonly known as pickerel. Its name comes from the fact that the fish’s eyes point outward, as if looking at the walls. They also have huge marble-like eyes, which feature a layer of reflective pigment, which means that the walleye can see quite well in dim light. The most common prey is the yellow perch which lacks this ability to see well in low light. This trait alone has made the walleye a successful predator.
Walleye are among the most popular of all game fish. Each year, Minnesota anglers keep roughly 3.5 million walleyes totaling 4 million pounds.
The walleye is the state fish of Minnesota and South Dakota and the official fish of Saskatchewan. More walleye is eaten in Minnesota than in any other state of the United States. Locally, Baudette is known as the “Walleye Capital” of the World”. You can see the 40 foot statue of Willie Walleye at the corner of Highway 11 and International Drive in Baudette. Make sure to bring your camera! www.sportsmanslodges.com