James Lindner and Jeff Simpson spend the day using fall walleye tactics and MegaLive to help find and catch shallow-water walleyes in the fall.
A Shift in Strategy: Harvest Over Catch-and-Release
In the world of modern sportfishing television, most outings end with fish being released back into the water. But this time, the team embarked on a different kind of mission—one focused on selective harvest. Set against the backdrop of Leech Lake in northern Minnesota during the fall season, this excursion was about more than just catching fish. It was about food, ethics, and how modern angling technology is transforming fisheries management.
With a classic fall “walleye chop” blowing across the lake and baitfish like shiners and perch moving into shallow flats, conditions were ideal for targeting “eater-sized” walleyes. The fish were scattered but could be found in small pods—a challenge that once would have required blind casting and a bit of luck, but today is met with precise technological tools.
From Guesswork to GPS: A Technological Evolution
The transformation of fishing electronics has been nothing short of revolutionary. In the not-so-distant past, anglers relied solely on 2D sonar, limiting their ability to find and stay on fish. The introduction of side imaging changed everything, allowing for a broader scan range and the ability to identify schools of fish off to the sides of the boat.
Now, with forward-facing sonar like MEGA Live and advanced GPS mapping, anglers are literally casting directly at fish they can see in real-time. Instead of aimless drifting or trolling, today’s strategy is more akin to hunting—targeting individual schools, marking waypoints, and casting with precision.
On this trip, as schools were identified on side imaging, coordinates were marked, and the trolling motor deployed. Presentations were slowed down and refined, allowing the team to effectively “headhunt” pods of walleyes scattered across the shallow flats.
Regulations Matter: Protecting the Resource
With great technological power comes great responsibility. In Minnesota, fisheries management has adapted to evolving angler efficiency. Slot limits and harvest rules are tailored to specific bodies of water to address varying levels of fishing pressure and ecological needs.
Leech Lake, for example, operates under a regulation that allows a total of four walleyes in the boat, with only one over 20 inches. These rules are critical to preserving healthy populations, especially in high-traffic lakes where modern electronics can make anglers far more effective.
Understanding and respecting these regulations is essential—not only to stay legal but to maintain sustainable fish populations for future generations.
The Joy of the Fry: Eaters Over Trophies
Catching a perfect “eater” walleye—typically in the 15- to 19-inch range—is one of the simplest yet most satisfying goals in fishing. These fish are ideal table fare, and Leech Lake is known for having an abundance of them.
As one fish after another was netted and measured, decisions were made on whether to keep or release based on the slot regulation and the fish’s size. Some fish were right on the “bubble,” leading to careful measurement and deliberation. One such walleye came in at a perfect 19 inches—ideal for the box.
High-Tech Boat Control and the Art of the Cast
The boat used for this mission was outfitted with a full suite of Humminbird electronics—two units at the bow and two at the console—giving it the feel of a stealth fighter on water. The team used a combination of side imaging to locate fish and MEGA Live to watch them in real-time. Spot-Lock on the trolling motor allowed for precise boat positioning, keeping the anglers within casting range of mobile fish schools.
When pods were located, the team employed a forward-sweeping motion with the trolling motor to pinpoint fish locations, then cast jigs directly into the school. It was a method that blended old-school technique with cutting-edge technology to devastating effect.
Fall Arsenal: Live Bait, Jigging Raps, and Swim Baits
The main workhorse for the day was a classic fall setup: a 1/4 oz VMC Hardball jig tipped with a rainbow minnow. This simple but deadly combination accounted for the majority of the fish caught, thanks in part to the subtle, finesse presentation that seemed to appeal to the more lethargic fish on this particular outing.
The rod setup included an Icon 6’8” medium power, extra fast action rod, spooled with 10 lb Sufix 832 braid and a fluorocarbon leader, paired with a Daiwa Kage 2500 reel. This offered the perfect blend of sensitivity, control, and casting distance.
On more aggressive days, other baits had proven successful. The Jigging Rap, typically associated with deeper water, worked well even in 7- to 9-foot shallows. The VMC Moontail jig, enhanced with a stinger hook to combat short strikes, also delivered. Lastly, a 3.5” Big Bite Suicide Shad on a jig head was used in a reactionary fashion—ripped off the bottom and allowed to fall—a method that can trigger bites from active fish.
However, this day called for subtlety. The live bait and jig combo was the clear winner, illustrating how anglers must adapt not only to conditions but to fish behavior, which can shift with weather or water temperature changes.
Bringing in the Big Ones, Too
Though the focus was on eaters, several trophy-class fish made an appearance. Using the same targeted approach with MEGA Live, anglers were able to cast right to large walleyes, observing their movements and even reactions to different baits.
Watching a fish turn, follow, or strike the bait in real time brings a level of excitement and engagement that is redefining the angling experience. While not all large fish were kept due to slot restrictions, the thrill of catching them added to the richness of the outing.
The Mission Accomplished: Harvesting with Purpose
Not every day on the water offers perfect conditions. You won’t always get bluebird skies or calm seas—but that’s part of the adventure. On this day at Leech Lake, the team set out with a clear mission: to harvest eater-sized walleyes in the 15- to 17-inch range. And by the end of the outing, that mission was a success.
“Mr. Simpson, I think we just hit the quota,” was the call, signaling the final fish for the day’s limit. It wasn’t about chasing trophies. It was about targeting the right-sized fish to take home, clean properly, and enjoy as a meal. This is the core of Walleye 101—find the fish, catch the fish, and harvest the fish responsibly.
Balancing Passion and Preservation
As the popularity of walleye fishing continues to grow, so does the number of anglers who are highly skilled and well-equipped. With today’s electronics—side imaging, GPS mapping, and forward-facing sonar—it’s never been easier to locate and catch fish. But with this accessibility comes increased fishing pressure.
That’s why regulations are so important. State-mandated limits, slots, and possession rules exist not to restrict enjoyment, but to protect the long-term health of the fishery. History has shown that overharvesting can devastate a walleye population for decades. Sustainable harvest practices ensure that today’s youth—and their children—can experience the same incredible fishing in years to come.
Cleaning Up: The Final Step of the Experience
Back at shore, the work wasn’t over. The team took pride in the next stage: processing the day’s catch. Using quality electric knives and a few pro tips, they produced clean, white fillets ready for the table. One such tip involved bleeding the fish out prior to cleaning—done with BUBBA scissors—to enhance the quality of the meat.
Another smart move? Leaving part of the skin on during transport. This isn’t just for convenience—it’s a legal requirement in some states. Keeping the skin intact makes it easy for conservation officers to verify the species and legality of the catch. Once home, that skin can be quickly removed for cooking.
What might look like a simple act—cleaning and bagging fillets—is actually a final display of care and respect for the fish, the resource, and the tradition of walleye fishing.
A Personal Reflection: Sharing, Not Shoving
As the day on Leech Lake wrapped up, the show’s host reflected on the messages he often receives from fans. Most are supportive and encouraging, but every now and then someone criticizes the closing thoughts shared at the end of episodes—especially when they involve faith or personal beliefs.
His response was heartfelt and clear: “I’m not shoving anything down your throat. I’m sharing.” These moments are meant as encouragement, drawn from his own life and faith, offered freely with the hope of inspiring others. And as he reminded viewers, the greatest gift we’ve been given is free will—the ability to choose what we listen to, what we believe, and how we act.
This day on Leech Lake was a shining example of what modern walleye fishing can be—thoughtful, efficient, ethical, and enjoyable. With the help of incredible technology, sound conservation practices, and a passion for both catching and consuming fish, it’s possible to experience the best of both worlds.
