When the leaves start to turn and the water cools, anglers across the Midwest know it’s time to gear up for one of the most dependable patterns in freshwater fishing: fall walleye jigging. And if there’s one place where this tactic shines year after year, it’s Minnesota’s Leech Lake, a legendary fishery known for its chunky walleyes, giant muskies, and world-class multi-species action.
Recently, the Angling Edge crew hit the water with one goal: to put classic jig-and-minnow tactics to work using a modern spinning setup. But this wasn’t just a lesson in what bait to use. It was a clear demonstration of how choosing the right gear, including the Daiwa Ballistic MQ LT 2500 and Sufix 832 braid, can give you the upper hand in cold-water conditions where precision matters.
Why Jig-and-Minnow Still Rules in Fall
Fall is a transition period for walleyes, and as water temps drop into the 50s and 40s, fish begin schooling tighter and feeding more predictably. This is when jig fishing really comes alive. 
“We’re kind of mid to late October right now,” explains Jeremy Smith. “And it’s pretty tough to beat meat for walleyes this time of year.”
That’s because:
- Walleyes are concentrated on predictable structure
- Cold water slows down aggressive presentations
- Live minnows give off subtle cues that trigger bites
- Jigging allows for precise control and bottom contact
Whether you’re fishing flats, humps, or wind-blown shoreline breaks, jig-and-minnow fishing remains one of the most effective and efficient ways to connect with fall walleyes.
Gear Focus: The Daiwa Ballistic MQ LT 2500
One of the standout features in this fall jigging session was the use of the Daiwa Ballistic MQ LT 2500, a reel that offers a perfect balance of power, smoothness, and lightweight design. All ideal for long days of vertical jigging or casting light jigs in cold conditions.
What Makes the MQ LT Special?
The MQ in Ballistic MQ stands for Monocoque, referring to its one-piece body construction. Instead of having side plates screwed together (as in traditional reels), the MQ frame uses a sealed, single-piece body that allows for a larger internal gear, better frame rigidity, and improved water resistance.
Key Benefits:
- 20–30% Larger Drive Gear: More torque for pulling fish from deeper water or holding in current
- Compact & Lightweight: Easier to fish all day without fatigue
- Sealed Frame: Keeps out debris and water, especially helpful during fall when temps dip and conditions get harsh
- Silky Smooth Drag: Perfect for handling big walleyes with finesse
This isn’t just a premium reel, it’s a precision instrument for serious anglers who demand gear that can hold up to repeated abuse and perform in any condition.
Learn more about the Daiwa Ballistic MQ LT →
Line Choice: Sufix 832 Braid + Fluorocarbon Leader
The line you choose for jigging is just as important as the reel, and the Angling Edge team keeps it simple and effective: Sufix 832 braided line (10 lb test, high-vis) paired with a fluorocarbon leader.
Why This Setup Works:
- High-visibility braid lets you detect subtle bites
- Low-stretch braid improves hooksets and bottom feel
- Fluorocarbon leader offers stealth and abrasion resistance
- Versatile across species: the same setup works for walleye, perch, and even bonus smallmouths
“I like the hi-vis yellow, Jeff likes the neon green — but whatever color, hi-vis is really helpful for this,” Jeremy Smith explains.
For most fall jigging, a 10-pound fluoro leader is plenty, but in calm or ultra-clear water, dropping down to 6- or 8-pound can make a difference.
Fall Jigging Tips for Success
While gear is a big part of the equation, success still comes down to execution. Here are a few takeaways to be consistent when chasing fall walleyes:
- Spot-Lock saves time: Staying locked on fish-holding areas lets you work jigs precisely
- Pay attention to bites: Even in cold water, many walleyes will tap lightly
- Match jig size to conditions: Heavier jigs in wind, lighter ones for finesse
- Let the minnow do the work: A subtle lift-drop cadence is often all it takes
The combination of live bait, quality gear, and seasonal knowledge puts you in a position to succeed, whether you’re fishing Leech or your own home water.
Smart Gear, Better Fishing
Fall walleye jigging doesn’t have to be complicated, but your gear needs to perform. The Daiwa Ballistic MQ LT 2500 gives you the power of a larger reel in a compact frame, and when matched with Sufix 832 braid and a fluorocarbon leader, you’re set up to fish efficiently, comfortably, and effectively.
Leech Lake showed once again that classic techniques with the right modern tools still produce, and when the fall bite is on, there’s no better time to be out there.
I’m just getting into jogging for walleye and I had hoped to get more info from this article other than an advertisement for a $240 fishing reel. Perhaps you could have shown on video the jigging techniques that you use. Thank you.